1
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Ma B, Cui H, Wang X, Feng W, Zhang J, Chen N, Umar T, Zhou H, Liu W, Feng X, Deng G. IFNT-induced IRF1 enhances bovine endometrial receptivity by transactivating LIFR. J Reprod Immunol 2024; 163:104212. [PMID: 38432052 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2024.104212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024]
Abstract
Interferon-τ (IFN-τ) participates in the establishment of endometrial receptivity in ruminants. However, the precise mechanisms by which IFN-τ establishes bovine endometrial receptivity remain largely unknown. Interferon regulatory factor 1 (IRF1) is a classical interferon-stimulated gene (ISG) induced by type I interferon, including IFN-τ. Leukemia inhibitory factor receptor (LIFR) is a transmembrane receptor for leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), which is a key factor in regulating embryo implantation in mammals. This study aimed to investigate the roles of IRF1 and LIFR in the regulation of bovine endometrial receptivity by IFN-τ. In vivo, we found IRF1 and LIFR were upregulated in the bovine endometrial luminal epithelium on Day 18 of pregnancy compared to Day 18 of the estrous cycle. In vitro, IFN-τ could upregulate IRF1, LIFR, and endometrial receptivity markers (LIF, HOXA10, ITGAV, and ITGB3) expression, downregulate E-cadherin expression and reduce the quantity of microvilli of bovine endometrial epithelial cells (bEECs). Overexpression of IRF1 had similar effects to IFN-τ on endometrial receptivity, and interference of LIFR could block these effects, suggesting the positive effects of IRF1 on endometrial receptivity were mediated by LIFR. Dual luciferase reporter assay verified that IRF1 could transactivate LIFR transcription by binding to its promoter. In conclusion, IFN-τ can induce IRF1 expression in bovine endometrial epithelial cells, and IRF1 upregulates LIFR expression by binding to LIFR promoter, contributing to the enhancement of bovine endometrial receptivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bin Ma
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Huiqi Cui
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao Wang
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Wen Feng
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Jinxin Zhang
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Nuoer Chen
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Talha Umar
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Han Zhou
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Wenjing Liu
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Xinyu Feng
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Ganzhen Deng
- Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China.
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Lawrence LA, Vidal P, Varughese RS, Tiger Li ZR, Chen TD, Tuske SC, Jimenez AR, Lowen AC, Shafer WM, Swaims-Kohlmeier A. Murine modeling of menstruation identifies immune correlates of protection during Chlamydia muridarum challenge. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.21.595090. [PMID: 38826233 PMCID: PMC11142139 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.21.595090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
The menstrual cycle influences the risk of acquiring sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including Chlamydia trachomatis (C. trachomatis), although the underlying immune contributions are poorly defined. A mouse model simulating the immune-mediated process of menstruation could provide valuable insights into tissue-specific determinants of protection against chlamydial infection within the cervicovaginal and uterine mucosae comprising the female reproductive tract (FRT). Here, we used the pseudopregnancy approach in naïve C57Bl/6 mice and performed vaginal challenge with Chlamydia muridarum (C. muridarum) at decidualization, endometrial tissue remodeling, or uterine repair. This strategy identified that the time frame comprising uterine repair correlated with robust infection and greater bacterial burden as compared with mice on hormonal contraception, while challenges during endometrial remodeling were least likely to result in a productive infection. By comparing the infection site at early time points following chlamydial challenge, we found that a greater abundance of innate effector populations and proinflammatory signaling, including IFNγ correlated with protection. FRT immune profiling in uninfected mice over pseudopregnancy or in pig-tailed macaques over the menstrual cycle identified NK cell infiltration into the cervicovaginal tissues and lumen over the course of endometrial remodeling. Notably, NK cell depletion over this time frame reversed protection, with mice now productively infected with C. muridarum following challenge. This study shows that the pseudopregnancy murine menstruation model recapitulates immune changes in the FRT as a result of endometrial remodeling and identifies NK cell localization at the FRT as essential for immune protection against primary C. muridarum infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurel A Lawrence
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Paola Vidal
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Richa S Varughese
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Zheng-Rong Tiger Li
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Thien Duy Chen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Steven C Tuske
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Ariana R Jimenez
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Anice C Lowen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - William M Shafer
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
- Laboratories of Bacterial Pathogenesis, Atlanta Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Decatur, Georgia
| | - Alison Swaims-Kohlmeier
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
- Department of GYNOB, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
- Division of HIV Prevention Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia (previous affiliation)
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3
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Zhang J, Xue M, Huang J, He S, Zhu L, Zhao X, Wang B, Jiang T, Zhang Y, Miao C, Zhou G. Deficiency of UCHL1 results in insufficient decidualization accompanied by impaired dNK modulation and eventually miscarriage. J Transl Med 2024; 22:478. [PMID: 38769534 PMCID: PMC11103838 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-024-05253-0] [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: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Miscarriage is a frustrating complication of pregnancy that is common among women of reproductive age. Insufficient decidualization which not only impairs embryo implantation but disturbs fetomaternal immune-tolerance, has been widely regarded as a major cause of miscarriage; however, the underlying mechanisms resulting in decidual impairment are largely unknown. METHODS With informed consent, decidual tissue from patients with spontaneous abortion or normal pregnant women was collected to detect the expression profile of UCHL1. Human endometrial stromal cells (HESCs) were used to explore the roles of UCHL1 in decidualization and dNK modulation, as well as the mechanisms involved. C57/BL6 female mice (7-10 weeks old) were used to construct pregnancy model or artificially induced decidualization model to evaluate the effect of UCHL1 on mice decidualization and pregnancy outcome. RESULTS The Ubiquitin C-terminal hydrolase L1 (UCHL1), as a deubiquitinating enzyme, was significantly downregulated in decidua from patients with miscarriage, along with impaired decidualization and decreased dNKs. Blockage of UCHL1 led to insufficient decidualization and resultant decreased expression of cytokines CXCL12, IL-15, TGF-β which were critical for generation of decidual NK cells (dNKs), whereas UCHL1 overexpression enhanced decidualization accompanied by increase in dNKs. Mechanistically, the promotion of UCHL1 on decidualization was dependent on its deubiquitinating activity, and intervention of UCHL1 inhibited the activation of JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway, resulting in aberrant decidualization and decreased production of cytokines associated with dNKs modulation. Furthermore, we found that inhibition of UCHL1 also disrupted the decidualization in mice and eventually caused adverse pregnancy outcome. CONCLUSIONS UCHL1 plays significant roles in decidualization and dNKs modulation during pregnancy in both humans and mice. Its deficiency indicates a poor pregnancy outcome due to defective decidualization, making UCHL1 a potential target for the diagnosis and treatment of miscarriage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Affiliated Changshu Hospital of Nantong University, 68 South Haiyu Road, Changshu, 215500, China
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Mingxing Xue
- Institutes for Translational Medicine, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Jiefang Huang
- Institutes for Translational Medicine, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
- Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Shan He
- Institutes for Translational Medicine, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Lingqiao Zhu
- Institutes for Translational Medicine, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Xiaonan Zhao
- Institutes for Translational Medicine, Children's Hospital of Soochow University, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Bei Wang
- Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Tingwang Jiang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Affiliated Changshu Hospital of Nantong University, 68 South Haiyu Road, Changshu, 215500, China
| | - Yanyun Zhang
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Affiliated Changshu Hospital of Nantong University, 68 South Haiyu Road, Changshu, 215500, China.
- Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
| | - Changhong Miao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, 180 Fenglin Road, Shanghai, 200032, China.
| | - Guoqiang Zhou
- Department of Gastrointestinal Surgery, The Affiliated Changshu Hospital of Nantong University, 68 South Haiyu Road, Changshu, 215500, China.
- Gusu College, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China.
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4
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Bafor EE, Erwin-Cohen RA, Martin T, Baker C, Kimmel AE, Duverger O, Fenimore JM, Ramba M, Spindel T, Hess MM, Sanford M, Lazarevic V, Benayoun BA, Young HA, Valencia JC. Aberrant CD8 +T cells drive reproductive dysfunction in female mice with elevated IFN-γ levels. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1368572. [PMID: 38698852 PMCID: PMC11064017 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1368572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) is pivotal in orchestrating immune responses during healthy pregnancy. However, its dysregulation, often due to autoimmunity, infections, or chronic inflammatory conditions, is implicated in adverse reproductive outcomes such as pregnancy failure or infertility. Additionally, the underlying immunological mechanisms remain elusive. Methods Here, we explore the impact of systemic IFN-γ elevation on cytotoxic T cell responses in female reproduction utilizing a systemic lupus-prone mouse model with impaired IFN-γ degradation. Results Our findings reveal that heightened IFN-γ levels triggered the infiltration of CD8+T cells in the pituitary gland and female reproductive tract (FRT), resulting in prolactin deficiency and subsequent infertility. Furthermore, we demonstrate that chronic IFN-γ elevation increases effector memory CD8+T cells in the murine ovary and uterus. Discussion These insights broaden our understanding of the role of elevated IFN-γ in female reproductive dysfunction and suggest CD8+T cells as potential immunotherapeutic targets in female reproductive disorders associated with chronic systemic IFN-γ elevation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enitome E. Bafor
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Rebecca A. Erwin-Cohen
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Toni Martin
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Clayton Baker
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Molecular and Computational Biology Department, University of Southern California, Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Adrienne E. Kimmel
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Olivier Duverger
- Craniofacial Anomalies and Regeneration Section, National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - John M. Fenimore
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Meredith Ramba
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Thea Spindel
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Megan M. Hess
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Michael Sanford
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Vanja Lazarevic
- Experimental Immunology Branch, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Bérénice A. Benayoun
- Leonard Davis School of Gerontology, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, United States
- Molecular and Computational Biology Department, University of Southern California, Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Howard A. Young
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD, United States
| | - Julio C. Valencia
- Cancer Innovation Laboratory, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Frederick, MD, United States
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5
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Velez C, Williamson D, Cánovas ML, Giai LR, Rutland C, Pérez W, Barbeito CG. Changes in Immune Response during Pig Gestation with a Focus on Cytokines. Vet Sci 2024; 11:50. [PMID: 38275932 PMCID: PMC10819333 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci11010050] [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: 11/04/2023] [Revised: 12/28/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Pigs have the highest percentage of embryonic death not associated with specific diseases of all livestock species, at 20-45%. During gestation processes, a series of complex alterations can arise, including embryonic migration and elongation, maternal immunological recognition of pregnancy, and embryonic competition for implantation sites and subsequent nutrition requirements and development. Immune cells and cytokines act as mediators between other molecules in highly complex interactions between various cell types. However, other non-immune cells, such as trophoblast cells, are important in immune pregnancy regulation. Numerous studies have shed light on the crucial roles of several cytokines that regulate the inflammatory processes that characterize the interface between the fetus and the mother throughout normal porcine gestation, but most of these reports are limited to the implantational and peri-implantational periods. Increase in some proinflammatory cytokines have been found in other gestational periods, such as placental remodeling. Porcine immune changes during delivery have not been studied as deeply as in other species. This review details some of the immune system cells actively involved in the fetomaternal interface during porcine gestation, as well as the principal cells, cytokines, and molecules, such as antibodies, that play crucial roles in sow pregnancy, both in early and mid-to-late gestation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Velez
- Laboratory of Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, National University of La Pampa (UNLPam), Santa Rosa 6300, Argentina; (C.V.); (D.W.); (L.R.G.)
- National Scientific and Technical Research Council of Argentina (CONICET), Buenos Aires 2690, Argentina;
| | - Delia Williamson
- Laboratory of Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, National University of La Pampa (UNLPam), Santa Rosa 6300, Argentina; (C.V.); (D.W.); (L.R.G.)
| | - Mariela Lorena Cánovas
- Laboratory of Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, National University of La Pampa (UNLPam), Santa Rosa 6300, Argentina; (C.V.); (D.W.); (L.R.G.)
| | - Laura Romina Giai
- Laboratory of Histology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, National University of La Pampa (UNLPam), Santa Rosa 6300, Argentina; (C.V.); (D.W.); (L.R.G.)
| | - Catrin Rutland
- Sutton Bonington Campus, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, UK
| | - William Pérez
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy, University of Montevideo, Montevideo 11600, Uruguay
| | - Claudio Gustavo Barbeito
- National Scientific and Technical Research Council of Argentina (CONICET), Buenos Aires 2690, Argentina;
- Laboratory of Descriptive, Comparative and Experimental Histology and Embriology (LHYEDEC), Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Science, National University of La Plata (UNLP), La Plata 1900, Argentina
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6
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Parks SE, Geng T, Monsivais D. Endometrial TGFβ signaling fosters early pregnancy development by remodeling the fetomaternal interface. Am J Reprod Immunol 2023; 90:e13789. [PMID: 38009061 PMCID: PMC10683870 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13789] [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: 05/02/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The endometrium is a unique and highly regenerative tissue with crucial roles during the reproductive lifespan of a woman. As the first site of contact between mother and embryo, the endometrium, and its critical processes of decidualization and immune cell recruitment, play a leading role in the establishment of pregnancy, embryonic development, and reproductive capacity. These integral processes are achieved by the concerted actions of steroid hormones and a myriad of growth factor signaling pathways. This review focuses on the roles of the transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) pathway in the endometrium during the earliest stages of pregnancy through the lens of immune cell regulation and function. We discuss how key ligands in the TGFβ family signal through downstream SMAD transcription factors and ultimately remodel the endometrium into a state suitable for embryo implantation and development. We also focus on the key roles of the TGFβ signaling pathway in recruiting uterine natural killer cells and their collective remodeling of the decidua and spiral arteries. By providing key details about immune cell populations and TGFβ signaling within the endometrium, it is our goal to shed light on the intricate remodeling that is required to achieve a successful pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sydney E. Parks
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Cancer and Cell Biology Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Ting Geng
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Diana Monsivais
- Department of Pathology & Immunology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Center for Drug Discovery, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
- Cancer and Cell Biology Program, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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7
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Han M, Hu L, Wu D, Zhang Y, Li P, Zhao X, Zeng Y, Ren G, Hou Z, Pang Y, Zhao T, Zhong C. IL-21R-STAT3 signalling initiates a differentiation program in uterine tissue-resident NK cells to support pregnancy. Nat Commun 2023; 14:7109. [PMID: 37925507 PMCID: PMC10625623 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-42990-0] [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: 05/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Tissue-resident Natural Killer (trNK) cells are crucial components of local immunity that activate rapidly upon infection. However, under steady state conditions, their responses are tightly controlled to prevent unwanted tissue damage. The mechanisms governing their differentiation and activation are not fully understood. Here, we characterise uterine trNK cells longitudinally during pregnancy by single cell RNA sequencing and find that the combined expression pattern of 4-1BB and CD55 defines their three distinct stages of differentiation in mice. Mechanistically, an IL-21R-STAT3 axis is essential for initiating the trNK cell differentiation. The fully differentiated trNK cells demonstrate enhanced functionality, which is necessary for remodelling spiral arteries in the decidua. We identify an apoptotic program that is specific to the terminal differentiation stage, which may preclude tissue damage by these highly activated trNK cells. In summary, uterine trNK cells become intensely active and effective during pregnancy, but tightly controlled via a differentiation program that also limits potential harm, suggesting an intricate mechanism for harnessing trNK cells in maintaining pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengwei Han
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Luni Hu
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Di Wu
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yime Zhang
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Peng Li
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Xingyu Zhao
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yanyu Zeng
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Guanqun Ren
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Zhiyuan Hou
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yanli Pang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Tongbiao Zhao
- National Stem Cell Resource Center, State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Institute for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Chao Zhong
- Institute of Systems Biomedicine, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Beijing Key Laboratory of Tumor Systems Biology, Peking University Health Science Center, 38 Xueyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China.
- NHC Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology, Peking University, Beijing, 100191, China.
- Key Laboratory of Molecular Immunology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100191, China.
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8
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Gualdoni GS, Barril C, Jacobo PV, Pacheco Rodríguez LN, Cebral E. Involvement of metalloproteinase and nitric oxide synthase/nitric oxide mechanisms in early decidual angiogenesis-vascularization of normal and experimental pathological mouse placenta related to maternal alcohol exposure. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1207671. [PMID: 37670932 PMCID: PMC10476144 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1207671] [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: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Successful pregnancy for optimal fetal growth requires adequate early angiogenesis and remodeling of decidual spiral arterioles during placentation. Prior to the initiation of invasion and endothelial replacement by trophoblasts, interactions between decidual stromal cells and maternal leukocytes, such as uterine natural killer cells and macrophages, play crucial roles in the processes of early maternal vascularization, such as proliferation, apoptosis, migration, differentiation, and matrix and vessel remodeling. These placental angiogenic events are highly dependent on the coordination of several mechanisms at the early maternal-fetal interface, and one of them is the expression and activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and endothelial nitric oxide synthases (NOSs). Inadequate balances of MMPs and nitric oxide (NO) are involved in several placentopathies and pregnancy complications. Since alcohol consumption during gestation can affect fetal growth associated with abnormal placental development, recently, we showed, in a mouse model, that perigestational alcohol consumption up to organogenesis induces fetal malformations related to deficient growth and vascular morphogenesis of the placenta at term. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of the early processes of maternal vascularization that lead to the formation of the definitive placenta and the roles of angiogenic MMP and NOS/NO mechanisms during normal and altered early gestation in mice. Then, we propose hypothetical defective decidual cellular and MMP and NOS/NO mechanisms involved in abnormal decidual vascularization induced by perigestational alcohol consumption in an experimental mouse model. This review highlights the important roles of decidual cells and their MMP and NOS balances in the physiological and pathophysiological early maternal angiogenesis-vascularization during placentation in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Elisa Cebral
- Laboratorio de Reproducción y Fisiología Materno-Embrionaria, Instituto de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental y Aplicada (IBBEA), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET), Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental (DBBE), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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9
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Lédée N, Petitbarat M, Prat-Ellenberg L, Dray G, Vaucoret V, Kazhalawi A, Rodriguez-Pozo A, Habeichi N, Ruoso L, Cassuto NG, Rahmati M. The Next Frontier in ART: Harnessing the Uterine Immune Profile for Improved Performance. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11322. [PMID: 37511080 PMCID: PMC10379072 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411322] [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: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Assisted reproduction techniques have improved considerably in recent decades, but despite these advances, success rates remain relatively low. Endometrial immune profiling involves the analysis of cytokine biomarkers in the endometrium during the mid-luteal phase. This profiling aims to provide insights into the immune environment of the uterus. The aim is to identify immune disturbances and thus guide the development of personalized therapeutic approaches. The first part of the review looks back at the emergence of innovative concepts, highlighting the specificity of the human uterine environment at the time of implantation. Based on this new knowledge, biomarkers have been selected for endometrial immune profiling. The second part details the results of clinical studies conducted over the last ten years. These clinical results suggest that this approach can increase the rate of live births in patients suffering from repeated implantation failures or repeated pregnancy loss. Uterine immune profiling represents a clinical innovation that can significantly improve the performance of medically assisted reproduction treatments through personalized strategies tailored to the local immune profile. Innovation in personalized medicine for assisted reproduction is crucial to improving the success rates of fertility treatments, while reducing the risks and costs associated with ineffective or unnecessary interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathalie Lédée
- MatriceLab Innove Laboratory, Immeuble Les Gemeaux, 2 Rue Antoine Etex, 94000 Creteil, France
- Centre d'Assistance Médicale à la Procréation, Hôpital des Bluets, 4 Rue Lasson, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Marie Petitbarat
- MatriceLab Innove Laboratory, Immeuble Les Gemeaux, 2 Rue Antoine Etex, 94000 Creteil, France
| | - Laura Prat-Ellenberg
- Centre d'Assistance Médicale à la Procréation, Hôpital des Bluets, 4 Rue Lasson, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Géraldine Dray
- Centre d'Assistance Médicale à la Procréation, Hôpital des Bluets, 4 Rue Lasson, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Virginie Vaucoret
- Centre d'Assistance Médicale à la Procréation, Hôpital des Bluets, 4 Rue Lasson, 75012 Paris, France
| | - Alaa Kazhalawi
- MatriceLab Innove Laboratory, Immeuble Les Gemeaux, 2 Rue Antoine Etex, 94000 Creteil, France
| | - André Rodriguez-Pozo
- MatriceLab Innove Laboratory, Immeuble Les Gemeaux, 2 Rue Antoine Etex, 94000 Creteil, France
| | - Nada Habeichi
- MatriceLab Innove Laboratory, Immeuble Les Gemeaux, 2 Rue Antoine Etex, 94000 Creteil, France
| | - Lea Ruoso
- Laboratoire Drouot, 21 Rue Drouot, 75010 Paris, France
| | | | - Mona Rahmati
- London Women's Clinic, 113-115 Harley Street, London W1G 6AP, UK
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10
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Meng X, Chen C, Qian J, Cui L, Wang S. Energy metabolism and maternal-fetal tolerance working in decidualization. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1203719. [PMID: 37404833 PMCID: PMC10315848 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1203719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023] Open
Abstract
One pivotal aspect of early pregnancy is decidualization. The decidualization process includes two components: the differentiation of endometrial stromal cells to decidual stromal cells (DSCs), as well as the recruitment and education of decidual immune cells (DICs). At the maternal-fetal interface, stromal cells undergo morphological and phenotypic changes and interact with trophoblasts and DICs to provide an appropriate decidual bed and tolerogenic immune environment to maintain the survival of the semi-allogeneic fetus without causing immunological rejection. Despite classic endocrine mechanism by 17 β-estradiol and progesterone, metabolic regulations do take part in this process according to recent studies. And based on our previous research in maternal-fetal crosstalk, in this review, we elaborate mechanisms of decidualization, with a special focus on DSC profiles from aspects of metabolism and maternal-fetal tolerance to provide some new insights into endometrial decidualization in early pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Liyuan Cui
- *Correspondence: Songcun Wang, ; Liyuan Cui,
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11
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Massri N, Loia R, Sones JL, Arora R, Douglas NC. Vascular changes in the cycling and early pregnant uterus. JCI Insight 2023; 8:e163422. [PMID: 37288662 PMCID: PMC10393238 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.163422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Uterine vascular remodeling is intrinsic to the cycling and early pregnant endometrium. Maternal regulatory factors such as ovarian hormones, VEGF, angiopoietins, Notch, and uterine natural killer cells significantly mediate these vascular changes. In the absence of pregnancy, changes in uterine vessel morphology and function correlate with different stages of the human menstrual cycle. During early pregnancy, vascular remodeling in rodents and humans results in decreased uterine vascular resistance and increased vascular permeability necessary for pregnancy success. Aberrations in these adaptive vascular processes contribute to increased risk of infertility, abnormal fetal growth, and/or preeclampsia. This Review comprehensively summarizes uterine vascular remodeling in the human menstrual cycle, and in the peri- and post-implantation stages in rodent species (mice and rats).
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Affiliation(s)
- Noura Massri
- Cell and Molecular Biology Graduate Program and
- Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Rachel Loia
- School of Graduate Studies, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark, New Jersey, USA
| | - Jennifer L. Sones
- Veterinary Clinical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA
| | - Ripla Arora
- Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Nataki C. Douglas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Health and
- Center for Immunity and Inflammation, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Newark, New Jersey, USA
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12
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Santos LC, de Souza CA, Silva JF, Ocarino NM, Serakides R. Maternal hyperthyroidism alters the immunological mediators profile and population of natural killers cells in decidua of rats. Acta Histochem 2023; 125:152026. [PMID: 37058857 DOI: 10.1016/j.acthis.2023.152026] [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: 02/27/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 04/16/2023]
Abstract
Decidual immunological mediators modulate placental formation, decidualization and fetal development. However, the effect of maternal hyperthyroidism on decidual immunology needs further research. The aim of this study was to evaluate the population of uterine natural killer cells (uNKs) and the expression of immunological mediators in the decidua of female rats throughout pregnancy. Wistar rats were used and hyperthyroidism was induced by daily administration of L-thyroxine (T4) throughout pregnancy. The population of uNK cells in decidua was evaluated by immunostaining Lectin DBA, as well as the expression of interferon γ (INFγ), macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), interleukin 15 (IL-15) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) at 7, 10, 12, 14 and 19 days of gestation (DG). Maternal hyperthyroidism reduced the DBA+ uNK cell population in the decidua at 7 (P < 0.05) and 10 (P < 0.01) DGs compared to that in the control group, while it increased in the basal decidua (P < 0.05) and metrial gland (P < 0.0001) at the 12th DG. Hyperthyroidism also increased immunostaining of IL-15 (P < 0.0001), INFγ (P < 0.05), and MIF (P < 0.05) in the 7th DG, and increased immunostaining of IL-15 (P < 0.0001) and MIF (P < 0.01) in the 10th DG. However, excess thyroxine reduced IL-15 expression in the metrial gland and/or basal decidua in the 12th (P < 0.05), 14th (P < 0.01), and 19th (P < 0.001) DGs, as was also observed for INFγ in the basal decidua (P<0.001) and metrial gland (P < 0.0001) in the 12th DG. Regarding iNOS, an antiinflammatory cytokine, lower expression was observed in the basal decidua of hyperthyroid animals at 7 and 12 DGs (P < 0.05), whereas an increase occurred in the 10th DG (P < 0.05). These data demonstrate that maternal hyperthyroidism in female rats, particularly between 7 and 10 DGs, reduces the population of DBA+ uNKs in the decidua and increases the expression of inflammatory cytokines, suggesting a more proinflammatory environment in early pregnancy caused by this gestational disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luciano Cardoso Santos
- Centro de Microscopia Eletronica, Departamento de Ciencias Biologicas, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, Campus Soane Nazare de Andrade, 45662-900 Ilheus, Brazil
| | - Cíntia Almeida de Souza
- Departamento de Clinica e Cirurgia Veterinarias, Escola de Veterinaria, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Juneo Freitas Silva
- Centro de Microscopia Eletronica, Departamento de Ciencias Biologicas, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, Campus Soane Nazare de Andrade, 45662-900 Ilheus, Brazil
| | - Natália Melo Ocarino
- Departamento de Clinica e Cirurgia Veterinarias, Escola de Veterinaria, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Rogéria Serakides
- Departamento de Clinica e Cirurgia Veterinarias, Escola de Veterinaria, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, 31270-901 Belo Horizonte, Brazil.
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13
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Shen C, Song Y, Fan W, Guo X, Li J, Zhao R. Changes in expression levels of immune cells and inflammatory cytokines in pre-eclampsia patients before and after delivery. J Reprod Immunol 2023; 156:103812. [PMID: 36708687 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2023.103812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2022] [Revised: 01/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE By analyze the expression levels of immune cells and cytokines secreted by preeclampsia patients before and after delivery. Furthermore, to determine the inflammatory and immunological mechanism responsible for preeclampsia, to provide better future prevention and treatment. METHODS Twenty-one preeclampsia-diagnosed pregnant women were involved in this study as an observation group. Twenty pregnant women with no history of PE, age-matched, were added to the control group. Thirty NP women, age-matched were included as the reference. The levels of cytokines secreted by T, B, NK and Treg immune cells and Th1, Th2 and Th17 cells were detected before and after delivery. RESULTS The number of CD3 + cells in women without preeclampsia before delivery was not statistically different from that in PE patients, but the number of CD4 + and CD8 + cells was lower than that in women without preeclampsia. After delivery, CD4 + cells were larger than those in pregnant women without preeclampsia, while CD8 + cells were smaller than those in pregnant women without preeclampsia. The level of cytokines secreted by Th1 in pregnant women without preeclampsia before delivery was higher than that in PE patients. The levels of cytokines produced by Th1, Th2 and Th17 cells before and after delivery were higher in pregnant women without preeclampsia than in NP women, while Th2 and Th17 were in PE group. CONCLUSION PE patients may reduce CD4 + cells and CD8 + cells, and down-regulate the level of cytokines (especially TNF-β) secreted by Th1 cells to reduce the maternal rejection of embryos, thereby reducing the risk of premature delivery, which is a protective adaptive compensation mechanism in favor of embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cuihua Shen
- Kunming Maternity and Child Care Hospital Kunming, China
| | - Ying Song
- Kunming Maternity and Child Care Hospital Kunming, China
| | - Wei Fan
- Kunming Maternity and Child Care Hospital Kunming, China
| | - Xiaojuan Guo
- Kunming Maternity and Child Care Hospital Kunming, China
| | - Jia Li
- Kunming Maternity and Child Care Hospital Kunming, China
| | - Renbin Zhao
- Department of Hematology, The First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, China; Yunnan Provincial Hematopathy Hospital, Kunming, China.
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14
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Sagae Y, Horie A, Yanai A, Ohara T, Nakakita B, Kitawaki Y, Okunomiya A, Tani H, Yamaguchi K, Hamanishi J, Lydon JP, Daikoku T, Watanabe H, Mandai M. Versican provides the provisional matrix for uterine spiral artery dilation and fetal growth. Matrix Biol 2023; 115:16-31. [PMID: 36423736 DOI: 10.1016/j.matbio.2022.11.004] [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: 08/02/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The extracellular matrix (ECM) in the endometrium plays a crucial role in mammalian pregnancy. We have shown that versican secreted from the endometrial epithelium promotes embryo implantation. Versican is a proteoglycan, a major player in the provisional matrix, and versikine, its N-terminal fragment cleaved by ADAMTS proteinases, serves as a bioactive molecule. Here, since versican expression in the placenta was dynamically altered in humans and mice, we investigated the role of versican in pregnancy using uterine-specific Vcan deletion mice (uKO mice) and ADAMTS-resistant versican expressing mice (V1R mice). uKO mice exhibited insufficient spiral artery dilation, followed by fetal growth restriction and maternal hypertension. Further analysis revealed impaired proliferation of tissue-resident natural killer cells required for spiral artery dilation. V1R mice showed the same results as the control, eliminating the involvement of versikine. Our results provide a new concept that versican, one factor of ECM, contributes to placentation and following fetal growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yusuke Sagae
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Akihito Horie
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan.
| | - Akihiro Yanai
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Tsutomu Ohara
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Baku Nakakita
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Yoshimi Kitawaki
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Asuka Okunomiya
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hirohiko Tani
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Shizuoka General Hospital, Shizuoka, Japan
| | - Ken Yamaguchi
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Junzo Hamanishi
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - John P Lydon
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Center for Drug Discovery, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Takiko Daikoku
- Division of Animal Disease Model, Research Center for Experimental Modeling of Human Disease, Kanazawa University, Kanazawa, Japan
| | - Hideto Watanabe
- Institute for Molecular Science of Medicine, Aichi Medical University, Nagakute, Japan
| | - Masaki Mandai
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
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15
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Wei X, Yang X. The central role of natural killer cells in preeclampsia. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1009867. [PMID: 36865565 PMCID: PMC9972679 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1009867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is a disease that is unique to pregnancy and affects multiple systems. It can lead to maternal and perinatal mortality. The precise etiology of PE is unclear. Patients with PE may have systemic or local immune abnormalities. A group of researchers has proposed that the immune communication between the fetus and mother is primarily moderated by natural killer (NK) cells as opposed to T cells, since NK cells are the most abundant immune cells in the uterus. This review examines the immunological roles of NK cells in the pathogenesis of PE. Our aim is to provide obstetricians with a comprehensive and updated research progress report on NK cells in PE patients. It has been reported that decidual NK (dNK) cells contribute to the process of uterine spiral artery remodeling and can modulate trophoblast invasion. Additionally, dNK cells can stimulate fetal growth and regulate delivery. It appears that the count or proportion of circulating NK cells is elevated in patients with or at risk for PE. Changes in the number or function of dNK cells may be the cause of PE. The Th1/Th2 equilibrium in PE has gradually shifted to an NK1/NK2 equilibrium based on cytokine production. An improper combination of killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptor (KIR) and human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-C may lead to insufficient activation of dNK cells, thereby causing PE. In the etiology of PE, NK cells appear to exert a central effect in both peripheral blood and the maternal-fetal interface. To maintain immune equilibrium both locally and systemically, it is necessary to take therapeutic measures directed at NK cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqi Wei
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xiuhua Yang
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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16
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Baines KJ, Klausner MS, Patterson VS, Renaud SJ. Interleukin-15 deficient rats have reduced osteopontin at the maternal-fetal interface. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1079164. [PMID: 37152295 PMCID: PMC10157472 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1079164] [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: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Uterine Natural Killer (NK) cells are the predominant immune cells within the decidua during early pregnancy. These cells are thought to regulate aspects of decidualization and placental development, but their functions remain poorly characterized, especially in species with deeply invading trophoblasts such as humans and rats. Interleukin-15 (IL-15) is a cytokine required for NK cell development and survival. IL-15 mutant (IL15Δ/Δ) rats lack NK cells and exhibit altered placental development with precocious trophoblast invasion. In this study, we profiled gene expression differences between wild-type and IL15Δ/Δ implantation sites to reveal candidate factors produced by uterine NK cells that may regulate placentation and trophoblast invasion. Methods: Clariom S gene expression profiling was performed using implantation sites collected from pregnant wild-type and IL15Δ/Δ rats on gestational day 9.5. Levels and localization of perforin and osteopontin in implantation sites from wild-type and IL15Δ/Δ rats were further analyzed. The effect of osteopontin on the invasive capacity of rat trophoblasts was evaluated using Matrigel-based Transwell assays. Results: There were 257 genes differentially expressed between wild-type and IL15Δ/Δ implantation sites on gestational day 9.5, including decreased expression of various NK cell markers in IL15Δ/Δ rats, as well as Spp1, which encodes osteopontin. In wild-type rats, osteopontin was present within the decidua basalis and adjacent to the primitive placenta, and osteopontin colocalized with the NK cell marker perforin. Osteopontin was also detectable in uterine glands. Conversely, in IL15Δ/Δ rats, osteopontin and perforin were not readily detectable in the decidua despite robust osteopontin levels in uterine glands. Neutralization of osteopontin in media conditioned by cells isolated from the decidua decreased invasion of rat trophoblasts, suggesting that reduced levels of osteopontin are unlikely to account for the precocious trophoblast invasion in IL15Δ/Δ rats. Conclusion: Osteopontin is expressed by NK cells at the maternal-fetal interface in rats and may contribute to modulation of trophoblast invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly J. Baines
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Michelle S. Klausner
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Violet S. Patterson
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Stephen J. Renaud
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
- Children’s Health Research Institute, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
- *Correspondence: Stephen J. Renaud,
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17
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The Update Immune-Regulatory Role of Pro- and Anti-Inflammatory Cytokines in Recurrent Pregnancy Losses. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010132. [PMID: 36613575 PMCID: PMC9820098 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Recurrent pregnancy losses (RPL) is a common reproductive disorder with various underlying etiologies. In recent years, rapid progress has been made in exploring the immunological mechanisms for RPL. A propensity toward Th2 over Th1 and regulatory T (Treg) over Th17 immune responses may be advantageous for reproductive success. In women with RPL and animals prone to abortion, an inordinate expression of cytokines associated with implantation and early embryo development is present in the endometrium or decidua secreted from immune and non-immune cells. Hence, an adverse cytokine milieu at the maternal-fetal interface assaults immunological tolerance, leading to fetal rejection. Similar to T cells, NK cells can be categorized based on the characteristics of cytokines they secrete. Decidual NK (dNK) cells of RPL patients exhibited an increased NK1/NK2 ratio (IFN-γ/IL-4 producing NK cell ratios), leading to pro-inflammatory cytokine milieu and increased NK cell cytotoxicity. Genetic polymorphism may be the underlying etiologies for Th1 and Th17 propensity since it alters cytokine production. In addition, various hormones participate in cytokine regulations, including progesterone and estrogen, controlling cytokine balance in favor of the Th2 type. Consequently, the intricate regulation of cytokines and hormones may prevent the RPL of immune etiologies. Local or systemic administration of cytokines or their antagonists might help maintain adequate cytokine milieu, favoring Th2 over Th1 response or Treg over Th17 immune response in women with RPL. Herein, we provided an updated comprehensive review regarding the immune-regulatory role of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in RPL. Understanding the roles of cytokines involved in RPL might significantly advance the early diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of RPL.
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18
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Crump LS, Kines KT, Richer JK, Lyons TR. Breast cancers co-opt normal mechanisms of tolerance to promote immune evasion and metastasis. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2022; 323:C1475-C1495. [PMID: 36189970 PMCID: PMC9662806 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00189.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 09/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Normal developmental processes, such as those seen during embryonic development and postpartum mammary gland involution, can be reactivated by cancer cells to promote immune suppression, tumor growth, and metastatic spread. In mammalian embryos, paternal-derived antigens are at risk of being recognized as foreign by the maternal immune system. Suppression of the maternal immune response toward the fetus, which is mediated in part by the trophoblast, is critical to ensure embryonic survival and development. The postpartum mammary microenvironment also exhibits immunosuppressive mechanisms accompanying the massive cell death and tissue remodeling that occurs during mammary gland involution. These normal immunosuppressive mechanisms are paralleled during malignant transformation, where tumors can develop neoantigens that may be recognized as foreign by the immune system. To circumvent this, tumors can dedifferentiate and co-opt immune-suppressive mechanisms normally utilized during fetal tolerance and postpartum mammary involution. In this review, we discuss those similarities and how they can inform our understanding of cancer progression and metastasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lyndsey S Crump
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Kelsey T Kines
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
- Young Women's Breast Cancer Translational Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Jennifer K Richer
- Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
- University of Colorado Cancer Center, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Traci R Lyons
- Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
- Young Women's Breast Cancer Translational Program, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
- University of Colorado Cancer Center, Aurora, Colorado
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19
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Shojaei Z, Jafarpour R, Mehdizadeh S, Bayatipoor H, Pashangzadeh S, Motallebnezhad M. Functional prominence of natural killer cells and natural killer T cells in pregnancy and infertility: A comprehensive review and update. Pathol Res Pract 2022; 238:154062. [PMID: 35987030 DOI: 10.1016/j.prp.2022.154062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
Abstract
During pregnancy, complicated connections are formed between a mother and a fetus. In a successful pregnancy, the maternal-fetal interface is affected by dynamic changes, and the fetus is protected against the mother's immune system. Natural killer (NK) cells are one of the immune system cells in the female reproductive system that play an essential role in the physiology of pregnancy. NK cells not only exist in peripheral blood (PB) but also can exist in the decidua. Studies have suggested multiple roles for these cells, including decidualization, control of trophoblast growth and invasion, embryo acceptance and maintenance by the mother, and facilitation of placental development during pregnancy. Natural killer T (NKT) cells are another group of NK cells that play a crucial role in the maintenance of pregnancy and regulation of the immune system during pregnancy. Studies show that NK and NKT cells are not only effective in maintaining pregnancy but also can be involved in infertility-related diseases. This review focuses on NK and NKT cells biology and provides a detailed description of the functions of these cells in implantation, placentation, and immune tolerance during pregnancy and their role in pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Shojaei
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Disease, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Roghayeh Jafarpour
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Disease, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saber Mehdizadeh
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Disease, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hashem Bayatipoor
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Disease, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Salar Pashangzadeh
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Disease, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Morteza Motallebnezhad
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran; Immunology Research Center, Institute of Immunology and Infectious Disease, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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20
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Shih AJ, Adelson RP, Vashistha H, Khalili H, Nayyar A, Puran R, Herrera R, Chatterjee PK, Lee AT, Truskinovsky AM, Elmaliki K, DeFranco M, Metz CN, Gregersen PK. Single-cell analysis of menstrual endometrial tissues defines phenotypes associated with endometriosis. BMC Med 2022; 20:315. [PMID: 36104692 PMCID: PMC9476391 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-022-02500-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/27/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Endometriosis is a common, complex disorder which is underrecognized and subject to prolonged delays in diagnosis. It is accompanied by significant changes in the eutopic endometrial lining. METHODS We have undertaken the first single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-Seq) comparison of endometrial tissues in freshly collected menstrual effluent (ME) from 33 subjects, including confirmed endometriosis patients (cases) and controls as well as symptomatic subjects (who have chronic symptoms suggestive of endometriosis but have not been diagnosed). RESULTS We identify a unique subcluster of proliferating uterine natural killer (uNK) cells in ME-tissues from controls that is almost absent from endometriosis cases, along with a striking reduction of total uNK cells in the ME of cases (p < 10-16). In addition, an IGFBP1+ decidualized subset of endometrial stromal cells are abundant in the shed endometrium of controls when compared to cases (p < 10-16) confirming findings of compromised decidualization of cultured stromal cells from cases. By contrast, endometrial stromal cells from cases are enriched in cells expressing pro-inflammatory and senescent phenotypes. An enrichment of B cells in the cases (p = 5.8 × 10-6) raises the possibility that some may have chronic endometritis, a disorder which predisposes to endometriosis. CONCLUSIONS We propose that characterization of endometrial tissues in ME will provide an effective screening tool for identifying endometriosis in patients with chronic symptoms suggestive of this disorder. This constitutes a major advance, since delayed diagnosis for many years is a major clinical problem in the evaluation of these patients. Comprehensive analysis of ME is expected to lead to new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to endometriosis and other associated reproductive disorders such as female infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew J Shih
- Robert S. Boas Center for Genomics and Human Genetics, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA
| | - Robert P Adelson
- Robert S. Boas Center for Genomics and Human Genetics, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA
| | - Himanshu Vashistha
- Robert S. Boas Center for Genomics and Human Genetics, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA
| | - Houman Khalili
- Robert S. Boas Center for Genomics and Human Genetics, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA
| | - Ashima Nayyar
- Robert S. Boas Center for Genomics and Human Genetics, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA
| | - Radha Puran
- Robert S. Boas Center for Genomics and Human Genetics, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA
| | - Rixsi Herrera
- Robert S. Boas Center for Genomics and Human Genetics, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA
| | - Prodyot K Chatterjee
- Robert S. Boas Center for Genomics and Human Genetics, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA
| | - Annette T Lee
- Robert S. Boas Center for Genomics and Human Genetics, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA.,Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine, 500 Hofstra Blvd, Hempstead, NY, USA
| | - Alexander M Truskinovsky
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine, 500 Hofstra Blvd, Hempstead, NY, USA.,Department of Pathology, North Shore University Hospital, Northwell Health, 300 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY, USA
| | - Kristine Elmaliki
- Robert S. Boas Center for Genomics and Human Genetics, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA
| | - Margaret DeFranco
- Robert S. Boas Center for Genomics and Human Genetics, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA
| | - Christine N Metz
- Robert S. Boas Center for Genomics and Human Genetics, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA. .,Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine, 500 Hofstra Blvd, Hempstead, NY, USA.
| | - Peter K Gregersen
- Robert S. Boas Center for Genomics and Human Genetics, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA. .,Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine, 500 Hofstra Blvd, Hempstead, NY, USA.
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21
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Kaur G, Porter CBM, Ashenberg O, Lee J, Riesenfeld SJ, Hofree M, Aggelakopoulou M, Subramanian A, Kuttikkatte SB, Attfield KE, Desel CAE, Davies JL, Evans HG, Avraham-Davidi I, Nguyen LT, Dionne DA, Neumann AE, Jensen LT, Barber TR, Soilleux E, Carrington M, McVean G, Rozenblatt-Rosen O, Regev A, Fugger L. Mouse fetal growth restriction through parental and fetal immune gene variation and intercellular communications cascade. Nat Commun 2022; 13:4398. [PMID: 35906236 PMCID: PMC9338297 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-022-32171-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction (FGR) affects 5-10% of pregnancies, and can have serious consequences for both mother and child. Prevention and treatment are limited because FGR pathogenesis is poorly understood. Genetic studies implicate KIR and HLA genes in FGR, however, linkage disequilibrium, genetic influence from both parents, and challenges with investigating human pregnancies make the risk alleles and their functional effects difficult to map. Here, we demonstrate that the interaction between the maternal KIR2DL1, expressed on uterine natural killer (NK) cells, and the paternally inherited HLA-C*0501, expressed on fetal trophoblast cells, leads to FGR in a humanized mouse model. We show that the KIR2DL1 and C*0501 interaction leads to pathogenic uterine arterial remodeling and modulation of uterine NK cell function. This initial effect cascades to altered transcriptional expression and intercellular communication at the maternal-fetal interface. These findings provide mechanistic insight into specific FGR risk alleles, and provide avenues of prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gurman Kaur
- MRC Human Immunology Unit, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Klarman Cell Observatory, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Caroline B M Porter
- Klarman Cell Observatory, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Orr Ashenberg
- Klarman Cell Observatory, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Jack Lee
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Samantha J Riesenfeld
- Klarman Cell Observatory, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Pritzker School of Molecular Engineering, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Department of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Matan Hofree
- Klarman Cell Observatory, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Maria Aggelakopoulou
- Oxford Centre for Neuroinflammation, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Subita Balaram Kuttikkatte
- MRC Human Immunology Unit, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Kathrine E Attfield
- Oxford Centre for Neuroinflammation, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Christiane A E Desel
- Oxford Centre for Neuroinflammation, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- University Department of Neurology, University Hospital Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Jessica L Davies
- Oxford Centre for Neuroinflammation, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Hayley G Evans
- Oxford Centre for Neuroinflammation, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Inbal Avraham-Davidi
- Klarman Cell Observatory, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Lan T Nguyen
- Klarman Cell Observatory, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Danielle A Dionne
- Klarman Cell Observatory, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | | | - Lise Torp Jensen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Thomas R Barber
- MRC Human Immunology Unit, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Elizabeth Soilleux
- Department of Pathology, Tennis Court Rd, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, England
| | - Mary Carrington
- Basic Science Program, Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research in the Laboratory of Integrative Cancer Immunology, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Ragon Institute of MGH, MIT, and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Gil McVean
- Big Data Institute, Li Ka Shing Centre for Health Information and Discovery, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Orit Rozenblatt-Rosen
- Klarman Cell Observatory, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Aviv Regev
- Klarman Cell Observatory, Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Department of Biology, Cambridge, MA, USA.
- Howard Hughes Medical Institute, Chevy Chase, MD, USA.
- Genentech, 1 DNA Way, South San Francisco, CA, USA.
| | - Lars Fugger
- MRC Human Immunology Unit, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
- Oxford Centre for Neuroinflammation, Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences, MRC Weatherall Institute of Molecular Medicine, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.
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22
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Kumar M, Saadaoui M, Al Khodor S. Infections and Pregnancy: Effects on Maternal and Child Health. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 12:873253. [PMID: 35755838 PMCID: PMC9217740 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2022.873253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy causes physiological and immunological adaptations that allow the mother and fetus to communicate with precision in order to promote a healthy pregnancy. At the same time, these adaptations may make pregnant women more susceptible to infections, resulting in a variety of pregnancy complications; those pathogens may also be vertically transmitted to the fetus, resulting in adverse pregnancy outcomes. Even though the placenta has developed a robust microbial defense to restrict vertical microbial transmission, certain microbial pathogens have evolved mechanisms to avoid the placental barrier and cause congenital diseases. Recent mechanistic studies have begun to uncover the striking role of the maternal microbiota in pregnancy outcomes. In this review, we discuss how microbial pathogens overcome the placental barrier to cause congenital diseases. A better understanding of the placental control of fetal infection should provide new insights into future translational research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manoj Kumar
- Research Department, Sidra Medicine, Doha, Qatar
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23
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Marquardt RM, Ahn SH, Reske JJ, Chandler RL, Petroff MG, Kim TH, Jeong JW. Endometrial Epithelial ARID1A Is Required for Uterine Immune Homeostasis during Early Pregnancy. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23116067. [PMID: 35682747 PMCID: PMC9181301 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
A growing body of work suggests epigenetic dysregulation contributes to endometriosis pathophysiology and female infertility. The chromatin remodeling complex subunit AT-rich interaction domain 1A (ARID1A) must be properly expressed to maintain normal uterine function. Endometrial epithelial ARID1A is indispensable for pregnancy establishment in mice through regulation of endometrial gland function; however, ARID1A expression is decreased in infertile women with endometriosis. We hypothesized that ARID1A performs critical operations in the endometrial epithelium necessary for fertility besides maintaining gland function. To identify alterations in uterine gene expression resulting from loss of epithelial ARID1A, we performed RNA-sequencing analysis on pre-implantation uteri from LtfiCre/+Arid1af/f and control mice. Differential expression analysis identified 4181 differentially expressed genes enriched for immune-related ingenuity canonical pathways including agranulocyte adhesion and diapedesis and natural killer cell signaling. RT-qPCR confirmed an increase in pro-inflammatory cytokine and macrophage-related gene expression but a decrease in natural killer cell signaling. Immunostaining confirmed a uterus-specific increase in macrophage infiltration. Flow cytometry delineated an increase in inflammatory macrophages and a decrease in uterine dendritic cells in LtfiCre/+Arid1af/f uteri. These findings demonstrate a role for endometrial epithelial ARID1A in suppressing inflammation and maintaining uterine immune homeostasis, which are required for successful pregnancy and gynecological health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan M. Marquardt
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA; (R.M.M.); (J.J.R.); (R.L.C.); (T.H.K.)
- Cell and Molecular Biology Program, College of Natural Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA;
| | - Soo Hyun Ahn
- Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA;
| | - Jake J. Reske
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA; (R.M.M.); (J.J.R.); (R.L.C.); (T.H.K.)
| | - Ronald L. Chandler
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA; (R.M.M.); (J.J.R.); (R.L.C.); (T.H.K.)
| | - Margaret G. Petroff
- Cell and Molecular Biology Program, College of Natural Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA;
- Department of Pathobiology and Diagnostic Investigation, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA;
- Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - Tae Hoon Kim
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA; (R.M.M.); (J.J.R.); (R.L.C.); (T.H.K.)
| | - Jae-Wook Jeong
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA; (R.M.M.); (J.J.R.); (R.L.C.); (T.H.K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-61-6234-0987
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24
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Zhang Q, Xiao Z, Lee CL, Duan YG, Fan X, Yeung WSB, Chiu PCN, Zhang JV. The Regulatory Roles of Chemerin-Chemokine-Like Receptor 1 Axis in Placental Development and Vascular Remodeling During Early Pregnancy. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:883636. [PMID: 35656551 PMCID: PMC9152263 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.883636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Chemerin is an adipokine that regulates metabolism in pregnancy. An elevation of serum chemerin level is associated with pregnancy complications. Consistently, we demonstrated that the chemerin expression was increased in placenta of preeclamptic patients at deliveries. The G protein-coupled receptor chemokine-like receptor 1 (CMKLR1) mediates the actions of chemerin. The functions of the chemerin-CMKLR1 axis in maintaining pregnancy are still unknown. In this study, we demonstrated that CMKLR1 was expressed in the decidual natural killer (dNK) cells and chorionic villi of human. Chemerin suppressed the proliferation of the dNK cells in vitro. Specific antagonist of CMKLR1, α-Neta abolished the suppressive effect of spent medium from chemerin-treated dNK cells culture on extravillous trophoblast invasion. Activation of the chemerin-CMKLR1 axis promoted fusion and differentiation of human cytotrophoblast to syncytiotrophoblast in vitro. We generated Cmklr1 knockout mice and showed that the Cmklr1 deficiency negatively affected pregnancy outcome in terms of number of implantation sites, litter size and fetal weight at birth. Histologically, the Cmklr1 deficiency impaired formation of the syncytiotrophoblast layer II, induced enlargement of the maternal lacunae in the labyrinth, increased the diameter of the spiral arteries and increased trophoblast invasion in the decidua. The Cmklr1 deficient placenta also displayed an increased number of dNK cells and serum IL-15 level. In summary, the chemerin-CMKLR1 axis regulated placental development and spiral artery remodeling in early pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingqing Zhang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Zhonglin Xiao
- Center for Energy Metabolism and Reproduction, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Cheuk-Lun Lee
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Yong-Gang Duan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xiujun Fan
- Center for Energy Metabolism and Reproduction, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - William S. B. Yeung
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Philip C. N. Chiu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- *Correspondence: Philip C. N. Chiu, ; Jian V. Zhang,
| | - Jian V. Zhang
- Center for Energy Metabolism and Reproduction, Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Metabolic Health, Shenzhen, China
- *Correspondence: Philip C. N. Chiu, ; Jian V. Zhang,
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25
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Gualdoni GS, Jacobo PV, Barril C, Ventureira MR, Cebral E. Early Abnormal Placentation and Evidence of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor System Dysregulation at the Feto-Maternal Interface After Periconceptional Alcohol Consumption. Front Physiol 2022; 12:815760. [PMID: 35185604 PMCID: PMC8847216 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.815760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Adequate placentation, placental tissue remodeling and vascularization is essential for the success of gestation and optimal fetal growth. Recently, it was suggested that abnormal placenta induced by maternal alcohol consumption may participate in fetal growth restriction and relevant clinical manifestations of the Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). Particularly, periconceptional alcohol consumption up to early gestation can alter placentation and angiogenesis that persists in pregnancy beyond the exposure period. Experimental evidence suggests that abnormal placenta following maternal alcohol intake is associated with insufficient vascularization and defective trophoblast development, growth and function in early gestation. Accumulated data indicate that impaired vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) system, including their downstream effectors, the nitric oxide (NO) and metalloproteinases (MMPs), is a pivotal spatio-temporal altered mechanism underlying the early placental vascular alterations induced by maternal alcohol consumption. In this review we propose that the periconceptional alcohol intake up to early organogenesis (first trimester) alters the VEGF-NO-MMPs system in trophoblastic-decidual tissues, generating imbalances in the trophoblastic proliferation/apoptosis, insufficient trophoblastic development, differentiation and migration, deficient labyrinthine vascularization, and uncompleted remodelation and transformation of decidual spiral arterioles. Consequently, abnormal placenta with insufficiency blood perfusion, vasoconstriction and reduced labyrinthine blood exchange can be generated. Herein, we review emerging knowledge of abnormal placenta linked to pregnancy complications and FASD produced by gestational alcohol ingestion and provide evidence of the early abnormal placental angiogenesis-vascularization and growth associated to decidual-trophoblastic dysregulation of VEGF system after periconceptional alcohol consumption up to mid-gestation, in a mouse model.
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26
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Role of Natural Killer Cells during Pregnancy and Related Complications. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12010068. [PMID: 35053216 PMCID: PMC8773865 DOI: 10.3390/biom12010068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 01/01/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
A high number of leucocytes reside in the human endometrium and are distributed differentially during the menstrual cycle and pregnancy. During early pregnancy, decidual natural killer (dNK) cells are the most common type of natural killer (NK) cells in the uterus. The increase in the number of uterine NK (uNK) cells during the mid-secretory phase of the menstrual cycle, followed by further increase of dNK cells in early pregnancy, has heightened interest in their involvement during pregnancy. Extensive research has revealed various roles of dNK cells during pregnancy including the formation of new blood vessels, migration of trophoblasts, and immunological tolerance. The present review article is focused on the significance of NK cells during pregnancy and their role in pregnancy-related diseases. The article will provide an in-depth review of cellular and molecular interactions during pregnancy and related disorders, with NK cells playing a pivotal role. Moreover, this study will help researchers to understand the physiology of normal pregnancy and related complications with respect to NK cells, so that future research work can be designed to alleviate the complications.
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27
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Lakatos KF, Hasselblatt K, Fülöp V, Végh GL, McElrath T, Berkowitz RS, Elias KM. Isolation and culture of decidual natural killer cells from term placenta and complete hydatidiform mole. J Reprod Immunol 2022; 150:103475. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2022.103475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 12/31/2021] [Accepted: 01/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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28
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Depierreux DM, Kieckbusch J, Shreeve N, Hawkes DA, Marsh B, Blelloch R, Sharkey A, Colucci F. Beyond Maternal Tolerance: Education of Uterine Natural Killer Cells by Maternal MHC Drives Fetal Growth. Front Immunol 2022; 13:808227. [PMID: 35619712 PMCID: PMC9127083 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.808227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Reproductive immunology has moved on from the classical Medawar question of 60 years ago "why doesn't the mother reject the fetus?". Looking beyond fetal-maternal tolerance, modern reproductive immunology focuses on how the maternal immune system supports fetal growth. Maternal uterine natural killer (uNK) cells, in partnership with fetal trophoblast cells, regulate physiological vascular changes in the uterus of pregnant women and mice. These vascular changes are necessary to build the placenta and sustain fetal growth. NK cell functions in the uterus and elsewhere, including anti-viral and anti-tumour immunity mediated mostly by blood NK cells, are modulated by NK cell education, a quantifiable process that determines cellular activation thresholds. This process relies largely on interactions between self-MHC class I molecules and inhibitory NK cell receptors. By getting to know self, the maternal immune system sets up uNK cells to participate to tissue homeostasis in the womb. Placentation can be viewed as a form of natural transplantation unique in vertebrates and this raises the question of how uNK cell education or missing-self recognition affect their function and, ultimately fetal growth. Here, using combinations of MHC-sufficient and -deficient mice, we show that uNK cell education is linked to maternal and not fetal MHC, so that MHC-deficient dams produce more growth-restricted fetuses, even when the fetuses themselves express self-MHC. We also show that, while peripheral NK cells reject bone marrow cells according to the established rules of missing-self recognition, uNK cells educated by maternal MHC do not reject fetuses that miss self-MHC and these fetuses grow to their full potential. While these results are not directly applicable to clinical research, they show that NK education by maternal MHC-I is required for optimal fetal growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Delphine M Depierreux
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Jens Kieckbusch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Norman Shreeve
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Delia A Hawkes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Bryan Marsh
- Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Robert Blelloch
- Department of Urology, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Andrew Sharkey
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Francesco Colucci
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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29
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Muter J, Kong CS, Brosens JJ. The Role of Decidual Subpopulations in Implantation, Menstruation and Miscarriage. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2021; 3:804921. [PMID: 36303960 PMCID: PMC9580781 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2021.804921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 12/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
In each menstrual cycle, the endometrium becomes receptive to embryo implantation while preparing for tissue breakdown and repair. Both pregnancy and menstruation are dependent on spontaneous decidualization of endometrial stromal cells, a progesterone-dependent process that follows rapid, oestrogen-dependent proliferation. During the implantation window, stromal cells mount an acute stress response, which leads to the emergence of functionally distinct decidual subsets, reflecting the level of replication stress incurred during the preceding proliferative phase. Progesterone-dependent, anti-inflammatory decidual cells (DeC) form a robust matrix that accommodates the conceptus whereas pro-inflammatory, progesterone-resistant stressed and senescent decidual cells (senDeC) control tissue remodelling and breakdown. To execute these functions, each decidual subset engages innate immune cells: DeC partner with uterine natural killer (uNK) cells to eliminate senDeC, while senDeC co-opt neutrophils and macrophages to assist with tissue breakdown and repair. Thus, successful transformation of cycling endometrium into the decidua of pregnancy not only requires continuous progesterone signalling but dominance of DeC over senDeC, aided by recruitment and differentiation of circulating NK cells and bone marrow-derived decidual progenitors. We discuss how the frequency of cycles resulting in imbalanced decidual subpopulations may determine the recurrence risk of miscarriage and highlight emerging therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne Muter
- Division of Biomedicine, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Joanne Muter
| | - Chow-Seng Kong
- Division of Biomedicine, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
| | - Jan J. Brosens
- Division of Biomedicine, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, United Kingdom
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, University Hospitals Coventry and Warwickshire NHS Trust, Coventry, United Kingdom
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30
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Halari CD, Renaud SJ, Lala PK. Molecular mechanisms in IL-1β-mediated decorin production by decidual cells. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 27:6463501. [PMID: 34915564 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaab068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Revised: 11/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Decorin, a small leucine-rich proteoglycan produced by decidual cells restrains trophoblast differentiation, migration and invasiveness of extra-villous trophoblast cells. Decidual overproduction of decorin is associated with preeclampsia, and elevated decorin levels in maternal plasma are a predictive biomarker of preeclampsia. Furthermore, decorin plays an autocrine role in maturation of human endometrial stromal cells into decidual cells. Thus, a balanced decorin production by the decidua is critical for healthy pregnancy. However, the molecular mechanisms regulating decorin production by the decidua are unclear. Interleukin-1 beta is an inflammation-associated multi-functional cytokine, and is reported to induce decidualization in primates. Hence, the present study was designed: (i) to test if exogenous Interleukin-1 beta stimulated decorin production by human endometrial stromal cells; and if so, (ii) to identify the cellular source of Interleukin-1 beta in first trimester decidual tissue; (iii) to identify the downstream molecular partners in Interleukin-1 beta mediated decorin production by human endometrial stromal cells. Results revealed that (i) amongst multiple pro-inflammatory cytokines tested, Interleukin-1 beta alone stimulated decorin production by these cells; (ii) both macrophages and decidual cells in first trimester decidua produced Interleukin-1 beta; (iii) Interleukin-1 beta mediated decorin production was dependent on Interleukin-1 receptor activation, followed by activation and nuclear translocation of nuclear factor kappa B and its binding to the decorin promoter. These results reveal that Interleukin-1 beta plays a novel role in inducing decorin production by human endometrial stromal cells by activating nuclear factor kappa B.
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Affiliation(s)
- C D Halari
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - S J Renaud
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - P K Lala
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada.,Department of Oncology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
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31
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Decidual NK cells kill Zika virus-infected trophoblasts. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2115410118. [PMID: 34785597 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2115410118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Zika virus (ZIKV) during pregnancy infects fetal trophoblasts and causes placental damage and birth defects including microcephaly. Little is known about the anti-ZIKV cellular immune response at the maternal-fetal interface. Decidual natural killer cells (dNK), which directly contact fetal trophoblasts, are the dominant maternal immune cells in the first-trimester placenta, when ZIKV infection is most hazardous. Although dNK express all the cytolytic molecules needed to kill, they usually do not kill infected fetal cells but promote placentation. Here, we show that dNK degranulate and kill ZIKV-infected placental trophoblasts. ZIKV infection of trophoblasts causes endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, which makes them dNK targets by down-regulating HLA-C/G, natural killer (NK) inhibitory receptor ligands that help maintain tolerance of the semiallogeneic fetus. ER stress also activates the NK activating receptor NKp46. ZIKV infection of Ifnar1 -/- pregnant mice results in high viral titers and severe intrauterine growth restriction, which are exacerbated by depletion of NK or CD8 T cells, indicating that killer lymphocytes, on balance, protect the fetus from ZIKV by eliminating infected cells and reducing the spread of infection.
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32
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Gordon SM. Interleukin-15 in Outcomes of Pregnancy. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:11094. [PMID: 34681751 PMCID: PMC8541205 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222011094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Interleukin-15 (IL-15) is a pleiotropic cytokine that classically acts to support the development, maintenance, and function of killer lymphocytes. IL-15 is abundant in the uterus prior to and during pregnancy, but it is subject to tight spatial and temporal regulation. Both mouse models and human studies suggest that homeostasis of IL-15 is essential for healthy pregnancy. Dysregulation of IL-15 is associated with adverse outcomes of pregnancy. Herein, we review producers of IL-15 and responders to IL-15, including non-traditional responders in the maternal uterus and fetal placenta. We also review regulation of IL-15 at the maternal-fetal interface and propose mechanisms of action of IL-15 to facilitate additional study of this critical cytokine in the context of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott M. Gordon
- Division of Neonatology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA;
- Department of Pediatrics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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33
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Kanter JR, Mani S, Gordon SM, Mainigi M. Uterine natural killer cell biology and role in early pregnancy establishment and outcomes. F&S REVIEWS 2021; 2:265-286. [PMID: 35756138 PMCID: PMC9232176 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfnr.2021.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Objective While immune cells were originally thought to only play a role in maternal tolerance of the semiallogenic fetus, an active role in pregnancy establishment is becoming increasingly apparent. Uterine natural killer (uNK) cells are of specific interest because of their cyclic increase in number during the window of implantation. As a distinct entity from their peripheral blood counterparts, understanding the biology and function of uNK cells will provide the framework for understanding their role in early pregnancy establishment and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Evidence Review This review discusses unique uNK cell characteristics and presents clinical implications resulting from their dysfunction. We also systematically present existing knowledge about uNK cell function in three processes critical for successful human embryo implantation and placentation: stromal cell decidualization, spiral artery remodeling, and extravillous trophoblast invasion. Finally, we review the features of uNK cells that could help guide future investigations. Results It is clear the uNK cells are intimately involved in multiple facets of early pregnancy. This is accomplished directly, through the secretion of factors that regulate stromal cells and trophoblast function; and indirectly, via interaction with other maternal cell types present at the maternal-fetal interface. Current work also suggests that uNK cells are a heterogenous population, with subsets that potentially accomplish different functions. Conclusion Establishment of pregnancy through successful embryo implantation and placentation requires crosstalk between multiple maternal cell types and invading fetal trophoblast cells. Defects in this process have been associated with multiple adverse perinatal outcomes including hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, placenta accreta, and recurrent miscarriage though the mechanism underlying development of these defects remain unclear. Abnormalities in NK cell number and function which would disrupt physiological maternal-fetal crosstalk, could play a critical role in abnormal implantation and placentation. It is therefore imperative to dissect the unique physiological role of uNK cells in pregnancy and use this knowledge to inform clinical practice by determining how uNK cell dysfunction could lead to reproductive failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica R. Kanter
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Sneha Mani
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Scott M. Gordon
- Division of Neonatology, Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Monica Mainigi
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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34
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Zhang X, Wei H. Role of Decidual Natural Killer Cells in Human Pregnancy and Related Pregnancy Complications. Front Immunol 2021; 12:728291. [PMID: 34512661 PMCID: PMC8426434 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.728291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy is a unique type of immunological process. Healthy pregnancy is associated with a series of inflammatory events: implantation (inflammation), gestation (anti-inflammation), and parturition (inflammation). As the most abundant leukocytes during pregnancy, natural killer (NK) cells are recruited and activated by ovarian hormones and have pivotal roles throughout pregnancy. During the first trimester, NK cells represent up to 50–70% of decidua lymphocytes. Differently from peripheral-blood NK cells, decidual natural killer (dNK) cells are poorly cytolytic, and they release cytokines/chemokines that induce trophoblast invasion, tissue remodeling, embryonic development, and placentation. NK cells can also shift to a cytotoxic identity and carry out immune defense if infected in utero by pathogens. At late gestation, premature activation of NK cells can lead to a breakdown of tolerance of the maternal–fetal interface and, subsequently, can result in preterm birth. This review is focused on the role of dNK cells in normal pregnancy and pathological pregnancy, including preeclampsia, recurrent spontaneous abortion, endometriosis, and recurrent implantation failure. dNK cells could be targets for the treatment of pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiuhong Zhang
- Department of Genetics, School of Life Science, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Haiming Wei
- Hefei National Laboratory for Physical Sciences at Microscale, Division of Molecular Medicine, The Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) Key Laboratory of Innate Immunity and Chronic Disease, School of Life Sciences, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China.,Institute of Immunology, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
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35
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Biology and pathology of the uterine microenvironment and its natural killer cells. Cell Mol Immunol 2021; 18:2101-2113. [PMID: 34426671 PMCID: PMC8429689 DOI: 10.1038/s41423-021-00739-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Tissues are the new frontier of discoveries in immunology. Cells of the immune system are an integral part of tissue physiology and immunity. Determining how immune cells inhabit, housekeep, and defend gut, lung, brain, liver, uterus, and other organs helps revealing the intimate details of tissue physiology and may offer new therapeutic targets to treat pathologies. The uterine microenvironment modulates the development and function of innate lymphoid cells [ILC, largely represented by natural killer (NK) cells], macrophages, T cells, and dendritic cells. These immune cells, in turn, contribute to tissue homeostasis. Regulated by ovarian hormones, the human uterine mucosa (endometrium) undergoes ~400 monthly cycles of breakdown and regeneration from menarche to menopause, with its fibroblasts, glands, blood vessels, and immune cells remodeling the tissue into the transient decidua. Even more transformative changes occur upon blastocyst implantation. Before the placenta is formed, the endometrial glands feed the embryo by histiotrophic nutrition while the uterine spiral arteries are stripped of their endothelial layer and smooth muscle actin. This arterial remodeling is carried out by invading fetal trophoblast and maternal immune cells, chiefly uterine NK (uNK) cells, which also assist fetal growth. The transformed arteries no longer respond to maternal stimuli and meet the increasing demands of the growing fetus. This review focuses on how the everchanging uterine microenvironment affects uNK cells and how uNK cells regulate homeostasis of the decidua, placenta development, and fetal growth. Determining these pathways will help understand the causes of major pregnancy complications.
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36
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Hao F, Zhou X, Jin L. Natural killer cells: functional differences in recurrent spontaneous abortion†. Biol Reprod 2021; 102:524-531. [PMID: 31742319 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Revised: 03/13/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) is one of the major pregnancy disorders and poses a serious risk to both the mother and the fetus. Although a number of research efforts have been conducted, therapeutic advances for treating RSA have not lived up to their expectations. Hence, other treatments should be explored. The important role of natural killer (NK) cells in immunotherapy is attracting increasing attention, both as a pharmaceutical target and for cell therapies. NK cells are abundant in the endometrium and play a role in implantation and placentation in normal pregnancy. As research progresses, NK cells are increasingly regarded as playing essential roles in the emergence and development of RSA. In this article, I review recent findings on the role of uterine NK cells in the pathophysiology of RSA. These cells may become therapeutic NK cell-related targets. In conclusion, although several issues regarding NK cells in RSA remain unresolved and require further investigation, extensive evidence is available for the treatment of RSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Hao
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiangyu Zhou
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Liping Jin
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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37
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Travis OK, Tardo GA, Giachelli C, Siddiq S, Nguyen HT, Crosby MT, Johnson TD, Brown AK, Booz GW, Smith AN, Williams JM, Cornelius DC. Interferon γ neutralization reduces blood pressure, uterine artery resistance index, and placental oxidative stress in placental ischemic rats. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2021; 321:R112-R124. [PMID: 34075808 PMCID: PMC8409917 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00349.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is characterized by maternal hypertension, intrauterine growth restriction, and increased cytolytic natural killer cells (cNKs), which secrete interferon γ (IFNγ). However, the precise role of IFNγ in contributing to PE pathophysiology remains unclear. Using the reduced uterine perfusion pressure (RUPP) rat model of placental ischemia, we tested the hypothesis that neutralization of IFNγ in RUPPs will decrease placental reactive oxygen species (ROS) and improve vascular function resulting in decreased MAP and improved fetal growth. On gestation day (GD) 14, the RUPP procedure was performed and on GDs 15 and 18, a subset of normal pregnant rats (NP) and RUPP rats were injected with 10 μg/kg of an anti-rat IFNγ monoclonal antibody. On GD 18, uterine artery resistance index (UARI) was measured via Doppler ultrasound and on GD 19, mean arterial pressure (MAP) was measured, animals were euthanized, and blood and tissues were collected for analysis. Increased MAP was observed in RUPP rats compared with NP and was reduced in RUPP + anti-IFNγ. Placental ROS was also increased in RUPP rats compared with NP rats and was normalized in RUPP + anti-IFNγ. Fetal and placental weights were reduced in RUPP rats, but were not improved following anti-IFNγ treatment. However, UARI was elevated in RUPP compared with NP rats and was reduced in RUPP + anti-IFNγ. In conclusion, we observed that IFNγ neutralization reduced MAP, UARI, and placental ROS in RUPP recipients. These data suggest that IFNγ is a potential mechanism by which cNKs contribute to PE pathophysiology and may represent a therapeutic target to improve maternal outcomes in PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia K Travis
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Geilda A Tardo
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Chelsea Giachelli
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Shani Siddiq
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Henry T Nguyen
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Madison T Crosby
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Tyler D Johnson
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Andrea K Brown
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - George W Booz
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Alex N Smith
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Jan Michael Williams
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Denise C Cornelius
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
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38
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Baltayeva J, Konwar C, Castellana B, Mara DL, Christians JK, Beristain AG. Obesogenic diet exposure alters uterine natural killer cell biology and impairs vasculature remodeling in mice†. Biol Reprod 2021; 102:63-75. [PMID: 31436293 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2019] [Revised: 07/16/2019] [Accepted: 08/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Prepregnancy obesity associates with adverse reproductive outcomes that impact maternal and fetal health. While obesity-driven mechanisms underlying adverse pregnancy outcomes remain unclear, local uterine immune cells are strong but poorly studied candidates. Uterine immune cells, particularly uterine natural killer cells (uNKs), play central roles in orchestrating developmental events in pregnancy. However, the effect of obesity on uNK biology is poorly understood. Using an obesogenic high-fat/high-sugar diet (HFD) mouse model, we set out to examine the effects of maternal obesity on uNK composition and establishment of the maternal-fetal interface. HFD exposure resulted in weight gain-dependent increases in systemic inflammation and rates of fetal resorption. While HFD did not affect total uNK frequencies, HFD exposure did lead to an increase in natural cytotoxicity receptor-1 expressing uNKs as well as overall uNK activity. Importantly, HFD-associated changes in uNK coincided with impairments in uterine artery remodeling in mid but not late pregnancy. Comparison of uNK mRNA transcripts from control and HFD mice identified HFD-directed changes in genes that play roles in promoting activity/cytotoxicity and vascular biology. Together, this work provides new insight into how obesity may impact uNK processes central to the establishment of the maternal-fetal interface in early and mid pregnancy. Moreover, these findings shed light on the cellular processes affected by maternal obesity that may relate to overall pregnancy health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennet Baltayeva
- British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Chaini Konwar
- British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, Canada.,Department of Medical Genetics, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Barbara Castellana
- British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Danielle L Mara
- British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Julian K Christians
- British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, Canada.,Department of Biological Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, Canada
| | - Alexander G Beristain
- British Columbia Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
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Endometrial receptivity and implantation require uterine BMP signaling through an ACVR2A-SMAD1/SMAD5 axis. Nat Commun 2021; 12:3386. [PMID: 34099644 PMCID: PMC8184938 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-021-23571-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
During early pregnancy in the mouse, nidatory estrogen (E2) stimulates endometrial receptivity by activating a network of signaling pathways that is not yet fully characterized. Here, we report that bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) control endometrial receptivity via a conserved activin receptor type 2 A (ACVR2A) and SMAD1/5 signaling pathway. Mice were generated to contain single or double conditional deletion of SMAD1/5 and ACVR2A/ACVR2B receptors using progesterone receptor (PR)-cre. Female mice with SMAD1/5 deletion display endometrial defects that result in the development of cystic endometrial glands, a hyperproliferative endometrial epithelium during the window of implantation, and impaired apicobasal transformation that prevents embryo implantation and leads to infertility. Analysis of Acvr2a-PRcre and Acvr2b-PRcre pregnant mice determined that BMP signaling occurs via ACVR2A and that ACVR2B is dispensable during embryo implantation. Therefore, BMPs signal through a conserved endometrial ACVR2A/SMAD1/5 pathway that promotes endometrial receptivity during embryo implantation. Building on the known role of BMP signalling in implantation, the authors define the role of uterine ACVR2A and ALK3 (via SMAD1/5) in vivo in regulating murine endometrial receptivity and embryo implantation.
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40
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Travis OK, Baik C, Tardo GA, Amaral L, Jackson C, Greer M, Giachelli C, Ibrahim T, Herrock OT, Williams JM, Cornelius DC. Adoptive transfer of placental ischemia-stimulated natural killer cells causes a preeclampsia-like phenotype in pregnant rats. Am J Reprod Immunol 2021; 85:e13386. [PMID: 33315281 PMCID: PMC8131208 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 12/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM The Reduced Uterine Perfusion Pressure (RUPP) rat model of placental ischemia recapitulates many characteristics of preeclampsia including maternal hypertension, intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), and increased cytolytic natural killer cells (cNKs). While we have previously shown a 5-fold higher cytotoxicity of RUPP NKs versus normal pregnant NKs, their role in RUPP pathophysiology remains unclear. In this study, we tested the hypotheses that (1) adoptive transfer of RUPP-stimulated NKs will induce maternal hypertension and IUGR in normal pregnant control (Sham) rats and (2) adoptive transfer of Sham NKs will attenuate maternal hypertension and IUGR in RUPP rats. METHOD OF STUDY On gestation day (GD)14, vehicle or 5 × 106 RUPP NKs were infused i.v. into a subset of Sham rats (Sham+RUPP NK), and vehicle or 5 × 106 Sham NKs were infused i.v. into a subset of RUPP rats (RUPP+Sham NK; n = 12/group). On GD18, Uterine Artery Resistance Index (UARI) was measured. On GD19, mean arterial pressure (MAP) was measured, animals were sacrificed, and blood and tissues were collected for analysis. RESULTS Adoptive transfer of RUPP NKs into Sham rats resulted in elevated NK activation, UARI, placental oxidative stress, and preproendothelin expression as well as reduced circulating nitrate/nitrite. This led to maternal hypertension and IUGR. RUPP recipients of Sham NKs demonstrated normalized NK activation, sFlt-1, circulating and placental VEGF, and UARI, which led to improved maternal blood pressure and normal fetal growth. CONCLUSION These data suggest a direct role for cNKs in causing preeclampsia pathophysiology and a role for normal NKs to improve maternal outcomes and IUGR during late gestation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia K Travis
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center
| | - Cedar Baik
- Department of Emergency Medicine University of Mississippi Medical Center
| | - Geilda A Tardo
- Department of Emergency Medicine University of Mississippi Medical Center
| | - Lorena Amaral
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center
| | - Carmilya Jackson
- Department of Emergency Medicine University of Mississippi Medical Center
| | - Mallory Greer
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center
| | - Chelsea Giachelli
- Department of Emergency Medicine University of Mississippi Medical Center
| | - Tarek Ibrahim
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center
| | - Owen T. Herrock
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center
| | - Jan M Williams
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center
| | - Denise C Cornelius
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Mississippi Medical Center
- Department of Emergency Medicine University of Mississippi Medical Center
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41
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Libby VR, Wilson R, Kresak A, Cameron C, Redline R, Mesiano S, Weinerman R. Superovulation with gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist or chorionic gonadotropin for ovulation trigger differentially affects leukocyte populations in the peri-implantation mouse uterus. F&S SCIENCE 2021; 2:198-206. [PMID: 35559753 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2021.03.003] [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: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the effect of superovulation with human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) or gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) trigger on leukocyte density and expression of leukocyte-specific genes in the peri-implantation period in the mouse uterus. DESIGN Laboratory research. SETTING University laboratory facility. INTERVENTIONS Female mice were mated to fertile male mice in one of three protocols: (1) natural mating or mating following injection with pregnant mare serum gonadotropin followed by trigger with (2) GnRHa or (3) hCG. Female mice were killed prior to implantation, 3 days after ovulation (E3.5), and the ovaries and uterine tissue were collected. Total RNA was isolated and assayed using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, and the uterine tissue was stained for histologic analysis of immune cell markers. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Endometrial leukocyte (CD45) and vessel density (CD31) by immunohistochemical staining; expression of leukocyte markers CD11b, CD335, and CD22, by quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction in the whole uterine tissue. RESULTS Superovulation decreased (compared with controls) the endometrial leukocyte density, based on the number of cells staining for CD45, and endometrial vessel density, based on the number of cells staining for CD31. Leukocyte density was additionally decreased in the GnRHa trigger group compared with that in the hCG trigger group. Superovulation with hCG and GnRHa triggers decreased the uterine expression of the B-cell marker CD22 compared with controls. The expression of the natural killer cell marker CD11b was decreased by the hCG trigger but not by the GnRHa. Abundance of mRNA encoding the CD335 natural killer cell marker was not affected by superovulation or trigger agent. CONCLUSIONS In mice, superovulation with the GnRHa trigger compared with that with the hCG trigger differentially alters key immunologic factors in the uterine peri-implantation. These altered immunologic factors have roles in angiogenesis that may assist in elucidating the effects of assisted reproductive technologies on implantation efficiency and fetal growth and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valerie R Libby
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Rachel Wilson
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Adam Kresak
- Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Cheryl Cameron
- Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Raymond Redline
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio; Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio; Department of Pathology, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Sam Mesiano
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Rachel Weinerman
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Cleveland, Ohio; Department of Reproductive Biology, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio.
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42
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Shreeve N, Depierreux D, Hawkes D, Traherne JA, Sovio U, Huhn O, Jayaraman J, Horowitz A, Ghadially H, Perry JRB, Moffett A, Sled JG, Sharkey AM, Colucci F. The CD94/NKG2A inhibitory receptor educates uterine NK cells to optimize pregnancy outcomes in humans and mice. Immunity 2021; 54:1231-1244.e4. [PMID: 33887202 PMCID: PMC8211638 DOI: 10.1016/j.immuni.2021.03.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2019] [Revised: 12/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The conserved CD94/NKG2A inhibitory receptor is expressed by nearly all human and ∼50% of mouse uterine natural killer (uNK) cells. Binding human HLA-E and mouse Qa-1, NKG2A drives NK cell education, a process of unknown physiological importance influenced by HLA-B alleles. Here, we show that NKG2A genetic ablation in dams mated with wild-type males caused suboptimal maternal vascular responses in pregnancy, accompanied by perturbed placental gene expression, reduced fetal weight, greater rates of smaller fetuses with asymmetric growth, and abnormal brain development. These are features of the human syndrome pre-eclampsia. In a genome-wide association study of 7,219 pre-eclampsia cases, we found a 7% greater relative risk associated with the maternal HLA-B allele that does not favor NKG2A education. These results show that the maternal HLA-B→HLA-E→NKG2A pathway contributes to healthy pregnancy and may have repercussions on offspring health, thus establishing the physiological relevance for NK cell education. Video Abstract
CD94/NKG2A educates uterine NK cells NKG2A-deficient dams display reduced utero-placental hemodynamic adaptations Asymmetric growth restriction and abnormal brain development in NKG2A-deficient dams Non-functional HLA-B→HLA-E→NKG2A pathway exposes women to greater pre-eclampsia risk
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Affiliation(s)
- Norman Shreeve
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge CB2 0SW, UK; University of Cambridge Centre for Trophoblast Research, Cambridge, UK
| | - Delphine Depierreux
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge CB2 0SW, UK; University of Cambridge Centre for Trophoblast Research, Cambridge, UK
| | - Delia Hawkes
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge CB2 0SW, UK
| | | | - Ulla Sovio
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge CB2 0SW, UK; University of Cambridge Centre for Trophoblast Research, Cambridge, UK
| | - Oisin Huhn
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge CB2 0SW, UK; University of Cambridge Centre for Trophoblast Research, Cambridge, UK; Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; AstraZeneca, Granta Park, Cambridge CB21 6GH, UK
| | - Jyothi Jayaraman
- University of Cambridge Centre for Trophoblast Research, Cambridge, UK; Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK; Department of Physiology, Development and Neurobiology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Amir Horowitz
- Department of Oncological Sciences, Precision Immunology Institute and Tisch Cancer Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - John R B Perry
- MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge, Cambridge UK
| | - Ashley Moffett
- University of Cambridge Centre for Trophoblast Research, Cambridge, UK; Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - John G Sled
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada; Translational Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
| | - Andrew M Sharkey
- University of Cambridge Centre for Trophoblast Research, Cambridge, UK; Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Francesco Colucci
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Cambridge CB2 0SW, UK; University of Cambridge Centre for Trophoblast Research, Cambridge, UK.
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Marinić M, Mika K, Chigurupati S, Lynch VJ. Evolutionary transcriptomics implicates HAND2 in the origins of implantation and regulation of gestation length. eLife 2021; 10:61257. [PMID: 33522483 PMCID: PMC7943190 DOI: 10.7554/elife.61257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The developmental origins and evolutionary histories of cell types, tissues, and organs contribute to the ways in which their dysfunction produces disease. In mammals, the nature, development and evolution of maternal-fetal interactions likely influence diseases of pregnancy. Here we show genes that evolved expression at the maternal-fetal interface in Eutherian mammals play essential roles in the evolution of pregnancy and are associated with immunological disorders and preterm birth. Among these genes is HAND2, a transcription factor that suppresses estrogen signaling, a Eutherian innovation allowing blastocyst implantation. We found dynamic HAND2 expression in the decidua throughout the menstrual cycle and pregnancy, gradually decreasing to a low at term. HAND2 regulates a distinct set of genes in endometrial stromal fibroblasts including IL15, a cytokine also exhibiting dynamic expression throughout the menstrual cycle and gestation, promoting migration of natural killer cells and extravillous cytotrophoblasts. We demonstrate that HAND2 promoter loops to an enhancer containing SNPs implicated in birth weight and gestation length regulation. Collectively, these data connect HAND2 expression at the maternal-fetal interface with evolution of implantation and gestational regulation, and preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirna Marinić
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States
| | - Katelyn Mika
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Chicago, Chicago, United States
| | | | - Vincent J Lynch
- Department of Biological Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, United States
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Gordon SM, Nishiguchi MA, Chase JM, Mani S, Mainigi MA, Behrens EM. IFNs Drive Development of Novel IL-15-Responsive Macrophages. JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY (BALTIMORE, MD. : 1950) 2020; 205:1113-1124. [PMID: 32690654 PMCID: PMC7415599 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2000184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Disruption in homeostasis of IL-15 is linked to poor maternal and fetal outcomes during pregnancy. The only cells described to respond to IL-15 at the early maternal-fetal interface have been NK cells. We now show a novel population of macrophages, evident in several organs but enriched in the uterus of mice and humans, expressing the β-chain of the IL-15R complex (CD122) and responding to IL-15. CD122+ macrophages (CD122+Macs) are morphologic, phenotypic, and transcriptomic macrophages that can derive from bone marrow monocytes. CD122+Macs develop in the uterus and placenta with kinetics that mirror IFN activity at the maternal-fetal interface. M-CSF permits macrophages to express CD122, and IFNs are sufficient to drive expression of CD122 on macrophages. Neither type I nor type II IFNs are required to generate CD122+Macs, however. In response to IL-15, CD122+Macs activate the ERK signaling cascade and enhance production of proinflammatory cytokines after stimulation with the TLR9 agonist CpG. Finally, we provide evidence of human cells that phenocopy murine CD122+Macs in secretory phase endometrium during the implantation window and in first-trimester uterine decidua. Our data support a model wherein IFNs local to the maternal-fetal interface direct novel IL-15-responsive macrophages with the potential to mediate IL-15 signals critical for optimal outcomes of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott M Gordon
- Division of Neonatology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Mailyn A Nishiguchi
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Julie M Chase
- Division of Rheumatology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104; and
| | - Sneha Mani
- Center for Research on Reproduction and Women's Health, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Monica A Mainigi
- Center for Research on Reproduction and Women's Health, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104
| | - Edward M Behrens
- Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104;
- Division of Rheumatology, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA 19104; and
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45
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Sacks G, Finkelstein E. Natural killer cells and reproductive success. Am J Reprod Immunol 2020; 85:e13291. [DOI: 10.1111/aji.13291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Gavin Sacks
- IVFAustralia Sydney Australia
- University of New South Wales Sydney Australia
- St George hospital and Royal Hospital for Women Sydney Australia
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46
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Maternal Obesity and the Uterine Immune Cell Landscape: The Shaping Role of Inflammation. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21113776. [PMID: 32471078 PMCID: PMC7312391 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21113776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation is often equated to the physiological response to injury or infection. Inflammatory responses defined by cytokine storms control cellular mechanisms that can either resolve quickly (i.e., acute inflammation) or remain prolonged and unabated (i.e., chronic inflammation). Perhaps less well-appreciated is the importance of inflammatory processes central to healthy pregnancy, including implantation, early stages of placentation, and parturition. Pregnancy juxtaposed with disease can lead to the perpetuation of aberrant inflammation that likely contributes to or potentiates maternal morbidity and poor fetal outcome. Maternal obesity, a prevalent condition within women of reproductive age, associates with increased risk of developing multiple pregnancy disorders. Importantly, chronic low-grade inflammation is thought to underlie the development of obesity-related obstetric and perinatal complications. While diverse subsets of uterine immune cells play central roles in initiating and maintaining healthy pregnancy, uterine leukocyte dysfunction as a result of maternal obesity may underpin the development of pregnancy disorders. In this review we discuss the current knowledge related to the impact of maternal obesity and obesity-associated inflammation on uterine immune cell function, utero-placental establishment, and pregnancy health.
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47
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Sliz A, Locker KCS, Lampe K, Godarova A, Plas DR, Janssen EM, Jones H, Herr AB, Hoebe K. Gab3 is required for IL-2- and IL-15-induced NK cell expansion and limits trophoblast invasion during pregnancy. Sci Immunol 2020; 4:4/38/eaav3866. [PMID: 31375526 DOI: 10.1126/sciimmunol.aav3866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The scaffolding protein Grb2-associated binding protein 3 (Gab3) is a member of the Gab family, whose functions have remained elusive. Here, we identify Gab3 as a key determinant of peripheral NK cell expansion. Loss of Gab3 resulted in impaired IL-2 and IL-15-induced NK cell priming and expansion due to a selective impairment in MAPK signaling but not STAT5 signaling. In vivo, we found that Gab3 is required for recognition and elimination of "missing-self" and tumor targets. Unexpectedly, our studies also revealed that Gab3 plays an important role during pregnancy. Gab3-deficient mice exhibited impaired uterine NK cell expansion associated with abnormal spiral artery remodeling and increased trophoblast invasion in the decidua basalis. This coincided with stillbirth, retained placenta, maternal hemorrhage, and undelivered fetoplacental units at term. Thus, Gab3 is a key component required for cytokine-mediated NK cell priming and expansion that is essential for antitumor responses and limits trophoblast cell invasion during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Sliz
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA.,Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Research Foundation, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA.,Immunology Graduate Program, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center and the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
| | - Kathryn C S Locker
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA.,Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Research Foundation, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA.,Immunology Graduate Program, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center and the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
| | - Kristin Lampe
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA.,Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Research Foundation, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA
| | - Alzbeta Godarova
- Biomedical Informatics Graduate Program, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
| | - David R Plas
- Vontz Center for Molecular Studies, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA
| | | | - Helen Jones
- Division of General Pediatric and Thoracic Surgery, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA.,Department of Surgery, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
| | - Andrew B Herr
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA.,Division of Immunobiology, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Research Foundation, Cincinnati, OH 45229, USA.,Immunology Graduate Program, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center and the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, OH 45220, USA
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48
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Zhong H, Geng Y, Chen J, Gao R, Yu C, Yang Z, Chen X, Mu X, Liu X, He J. Maternal exposure to CeO 2NPs during early pregnancy impairs pregnancy by inducing placental abnormalities. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2020; 389:121830. [PMID: 31836366 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2019.121830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2019] [Revised: 11/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/04/2019] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Cerium dioxide nanoparticles (CeO2NPs) has been widely used in many fields, and also recommended as a promising carrier for cancer targeted drugs in human medicine for its excellent properties. However, its biological safety to human health remains controversial. In this study, we propose a mouse model exposed to CeO2NPs during early pregnancy, to clarify the effect of maternal CeO2NPs exposure and related molecular mechanism. Pregnant mice are injected intravenously with CeO2NPs by once a day on D5, D6, and D7. The effects of CeO2NPs exposure on pregnancy outcomes are observed on D8, D9, D10 and D12. The results show that CeO2NPs exposure during early pregnancy would lead to poor pregnancy outcomes. Further study find that low-quality decidualization, including the imbalance of trophoblast invasion regulators secreted by decidual cells and abnormal recruitment and differentiation of uNK cells, leads to subsequent biological negative "ripple effects", including placental dysfunction, fetal loss or growth restriction. This study broadens the understanding of the biological safety of CeO2NPs, and provide clues for the prevention of its negative biological effects. Improving the function of uNK cells can be used as one of the therapeutic targets to prevent negative effects of CeO2NPs on pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hangtian Zhong
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Yanqing Geng
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Jun Chen
- College of Pharmacy, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Rufei Gao
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Chao Yu
- College of Pharmacy, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Zhangyou Yang
- College of Pharmacy, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Xuemei Chen
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Xinyi Mu
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Xueqing Liu
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China
| | - Junlin He
- School of Public Health, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China; Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproduction & Development, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, PR China.
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49
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Valero-Pacheco N, Beaulieu AM. Transcriptional Regulation of Mouse Tissue-Resident Natural Killer Cell Development. Front Immunol 2020; 11:309. [PMID: 32161593 PMCID: PMC7052387 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Natural killer (NK) cells are cytotoxic innate lymphocytes that are well-known for their ability to kill infected or malignant cells. Beyond their roles in tumor surveillance and anti-pathogen defense, more recent studies have highlighted key roles for NK cells in a broad range of biological processes, including metabolic homeostasis, immunomodulation of T cells, contact hypersensitivity, and pregnancy. Consistent with the breadth and diversity of these functions, it is now appreciated that NK cells are a heterogeneous population, comprised of specialized and sometimes tissue-specific subsets with distinct phenotypes and effector functions. Indeed, in addition to the conventional NK cells (cNKs) that are abundant and have been well-studied in the blood and spleen, distinct subsets of tissue-resident NK cells (trNKs) and "helper" Group 1 innate lymphoid cells (ILC1s) have now been described in multiple organs and tissues, including the liver, uterus, thymus, adipose tissue, and skin, among others. The cNK, trNK, and/or helper ILC1 populations that co-exist in these various tissues exhibit both common and distinct developmental requirements, suggesting that a combination of lineage-, subset-, and tissue-specific differentiation processes may contribute to the unique functional properties of these various populations. Here, we provide an overview of the transcriptional regulatory pathways known to instruct the development and differentiation of cNK, trNK, and helper ILC1 populations in specific tissues in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nuriban Valero-Pacheco
- Center for Immunity and Inflammation, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Rutgers – The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, United States
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Molecular Genetics, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Rutgers – The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Aimee M. Beaulieu
- Center for Immunity and Inflammation, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Rutgers – The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, United States
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry, and Molecular Genetics, New Jersey Medical School, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Rutgers – The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, United States
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50
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Meyer N, Zenclussen AC. Immune Cells in the Uterine Remodeling: Are They the Target of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals? Front Immunol 2020; 11:246. [PMID: 32140155 PMCID: PMC7043066 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Sufficient uterine remodeling is essential for fetal survival and development. Pathologies related to poor remodeling have a negative impact on maternal and fetal health even years after birth. Research of the last decades yielded excellent studies demonstrating the key role of immune cells in the remodeling processes. This review summarizes the current knowledge about the relevance of immune cells for uterine remodeling during pregnancy and further discusses immunomodulatory effects of man-made endocrine disrupting chemicals on immune cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Meyer
- Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Ana Claudia Zenclussen
- Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany
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