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Pearson-Farr JE, Doherty R, Chatelet DS, Goggin P, Ng KYB, Lucas JS, Cleal JK, Cheong YC, Lewis RM. Ultrastructural cilia defects in multi-ciliated uterine glandular epithelial cells from women with reproductive failure. Reproduction 2024; 167:e230173. [PMID: 37999981 DOI: 10.1530/rep-23-0173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
In brief The causes of subfertility and recurrent pregnancy loss are often unclear. This study shows that endometrial gland cilia from women with subfertility have ultrastructural defects. Abstract Endometrial glands secrete products into the endometrium and are necessary for embryo implantation and successful pregnancy. However, structural and functional abnormalities in endometrial gland cilia from women with reproductive failure remain poorly understood. This was a cross-sectional study where endometrial biopsies were collected at days 19-23 of the menstrual cycle from women with unexplained recurrent pregnancy loss (n = 15), unexplained subfertility (n = 11) or from egg donor control participants (n = 10). Endometrial gland cilia ultrastructure was imaged by transmission electron microscopy and cilia defects assessed by an electron-microscopist from a national primary ciliary dyskinesia diagnostic centre. Endometrial glands were isolated, and the cilia beat frequency recorded by high speed video. Subfertile women have proportionately lower ultrastructurally normal cilia (P < 0.05); higher frequency of absent dynamin arms (P < 0.01) or inner arm defects (P < 0.01) and lower cilia beat frequency (P < 0.05). The mechanisms underlying these obversions have yet to be determined. Recent studies have identified cilia related gene expression changes associated with reproductive failure and this study adds to the growing body of literature revealing structural and functional changes. The observation that cilia defects occurred at a higher frequency in endometrial glands of subfertile women raises the question of its mechanistic role in implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer E Pearson-Farr
- Human Development and Health, University of Southampton, Faculty of Medicine, Southampton, UK
| | - Regan Doherty
- Biomedical Imaging Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia Centre, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - David S Chatelet
- Biomedical Imaging Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Patricia Goggin
- Biomedical Imaging Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
- Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia Centre, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Ka Ying Bonnie Ng
- Human Development and Health, University of Southampton, Faculty of Medicine, Southampton, UK
| | - Jane S Lucas
- Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia Centre, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
- School of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, University of Southampton Faculty of Medicine, Southampton, UK
| | - Jane K Cleal
- Human Development and Health, University of Southampton, Faculty of Medicine, Southampton, UK
- Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Highfield, Southampton, UK
| | - Ying C Cheong
- Human Development and Health, University of Southampton, Faculty of Medicine, Southampton, UK
- Complete Fertility Centre Southampton, Princess Anne Hospital, Southampton, UK
| | - Rohan M Lewis
- Human Development and Health, University of Southampton, Faculty of Medicine, Southampton, UK
- Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Highfield, Southampton, UK
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de Souza Lima B, Sanches APV, Ferreira MS, de Oliveira JL, Cleal JK, Ignacio-Souza L. Maternal-placental axis and its impact on fetal outcomes, metabolism, and development. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2024; 1870:166855. [PMID: 37633470 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2023.166855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
Maternal obesity could impact offspring's health. During "critical period" such as pregnancy insults have a significant role in developing chronic diseases later in life. Literature has shown that diet can play a major role in essential metabolic and development processes on fetal outcomes. Moreover, the placenta, an essential organ developed in pregnancy, seems to have its functions impaired based on pre-gestational and gestational nutritional status. Specifically, a high-fat diet has been shown as a potential nutritional insult that also affects the maternal-placental axis, which is involved in offspring development and outcome. Moreover, some classes of nutrients are associated with pregnancy complications such as reduced intake of micronutrients and diabetes, preeclampsia, and preterm delivery. Thus, we will summarize the current literature on maternal environment factors that impacts the placental development and consequently the fetal an offspring health, or the maternal-placental axis, and this on fetal outcomes, metabolism, and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruna de Souza Lima
- Laboratory of Metabolic Disorders, School of Applied Sciences, University of Campinas, UNICAMP, Limeira, São Paulo, Brazil.
| | - Ana Paula Varela Sanches
- Laboratory of Metabolic Disorders, School of Applied Sciences, University of Campinas, UNICAMP, Limeira, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Maíra Schuchter Ferreira
- Laboratory of Metabolic Disorders, School of Applied Sciences, University of Campinas, UNICAMP, Limeira, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Josilene Lopes de Oliveira
- Laboratory of Metabolic Disorders, School of Applied Sciences, University of Campinas, UNICAMP, Limeira, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Jane K Cleal
- The Institute of Developmental Sciences, Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.
| | - Letícia Ignacio-Souza
- Laboratory of Metabolic Disorders, School of Applied Sciences, University of Campinas, UNICAMP, Limeira, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Frost JM, Amante SM, Okae H, Jones EM, Ashley B, Lewis RM, Cleal JK, Caley MP, Arima T, Maffucci T, Branco MR. Regulation of human trophoblast gene expression by endogenous retroviruses. Nat Struct Mol Biol 2023; 30:527-538. [PMID: 37012406 PMCID: PMC10113160 DOI: 10.1038/s41594-023-00960-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
The placenta is a fast-evolving organ with large morphological and histological differences across eutherians, but the genetic changes driving placental evolution have not been fully elucidated. Transposable elements, through their capacity to quickly generate genetic variation and affect host gene regulation, may have helped to define species-specific trophoblast gene expression programs. Here we assess the contribution of transposable elements to human trophoblast gene expression as enhancers or promoters. Using epigenomic data from primary human trophoblast and trophoblast stem-cell lines, we identified multiple endogenous retrovirus families with regulatory potential that lie close to genes with preferential expression in trophoblast. These largely primate-specific elements are associated with inter-species gene expression differences and are bound by transcription factors with key roles in placental development. Using genetic editing, we demonstrate that several elements act as transcriptional enhancers of important placental genes, such as CSF1R and PSG5. We also identify an LTR10A element that regulates ENG expression, affecting secretion of soluble endoglin, with potential implications for preeclampsia. Our data show that transposons have made important contributions to human trophoblast gene regulation, and suggest that their activity may affect pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer M Frost
- Blizard Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.
| | - Samuele M Amante
- Blizard Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Hiroaki Okae
- Department of Trophoblast Research, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Eleri M Jones
- Blizard Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Brogan Ashley
- School of Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Rohan M Lewis
- School of Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Jane K Cleal
- School of Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Matthew P Caley
- Blizard Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Takahiro Arima
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, Sendai, Japan
| | - Tania Maffucci
- Blizard Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Miguel R Branco
- Blizard Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.
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Lewis RM, Baskaran H, Green J, Tashev S, Palaiologou E, Lofthouse EM, Cleal JK, Page A, Chatelet DS, Goggin P, Sengers BG. 3D visualization of trans-syncytial nanopores provides a pathway for paracellular diffusion across the human placental syncytiotrophoblast. iScience 2022; 25:105453. [DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.105453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Pearson-Farr JE, Wheway G, Jongen MSA, Goggin P, Lewis RM, Cheong Y, Cleal JK. Endometrial gland specific progestagen-associated endometrial protein and cilia gene splicing changes in recurrent pregnancy loss. Reprod Fertil 2022; 3:RAF-22-0002. [PMID: 35971960 PMCID: PMC9513660 DOI: 10.1530/raf-22-0002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometrial glands are essential for fertility, consisting of ciliated and secretory cells that facilitate a suitable uterine environment for embryo implantation. This study sought to determine whether an endometrial gland specific transcriptome and splicing profile are altered in women with recurrent pregnancy loss. Our data provide a comprehensive catalogue of cilia and PAEP gene isoforms and relative exon usage in endometrial glands. We report a previously unannotated endometrial gland cilia transcript GALNT11 and its susceptibility to exon skipping. Key endometrial receptivity gene transcripts are also reported to change in endometrial glands of women with recurrent pregnancy loss. The endometrial gland cilia and PAEP targets identified in this study could be used to identify a perturbed endometrium, isolate causes of recurrent pregnancy loss and develop targeted therapies in personalised medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer E Pearson-Farr
- Human Development and Health, University of Southampton, Faculty of Medicine, Southampton, UK
| | - Gabrielle Wheway
- Human Development and Health, University of Southampton, Faculty of Medicine, Southampton, UK
| | - Maaike S A Jongen
- Human Development and Health, University of Southampton, Faculty of Medicine, Southampton, UK
| | - Patricia Goggin
- Biomedical Imaging Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Rohan M Lewis
- Human Development and Health, University of Southampton, Faculty of Medicine, Southampton, UK
| | - Ying Cheong
- Human Development and Health, University of Southampton, Faculty of Medicine, Southampton, UK
- Complete Fertility Centre Southampton, Princess Anne Hospital, Division of Women and Newborn, Southampton, UK
| | - Jane K Cleal
- Human Development and Health, University of Southampton, Faculty of Medicine, Southampton, UK
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Moon RJ, Cooke LDF, D’Angelo S, Curtis EM, Titcombe P, Davies JH, Godfrey KM, Cleal JK, Lewis RM, Cooper C, Harvey NC. Maternal and Fetal Genetic Variation in Vitamin D Metabolism and Umbilical Cord Blood 25-Hydroxyvitamin D. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2022; 107:e3403-e3410. [PMID: 35474389 PMCID: PMC9282354 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgac263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in vitamin D metabolism pathway genes are associated with circulating 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) in adults. Less is known about the relationships between mother and offspring SNPs and umbilical cord blood 25(OH)D. OBJECTIVE (1) To undertake a meta-analysis of the relationships of maternal and offspring SNPs in the vitamin D metabolism pathway and cord blood 25(OH)D in pregnant women including novel data; and (2) to examine these relationships in women who received antenatal cholecalciferol supplementation in a clinical trial. METHODS Novel data analysis from an observational mother-offspring cohort study (Southampton Women's Survey) and the MAVIDOS double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of 1000 IU/day cholecalciferol supplementation in pregnancy, and an electronic literature search of published studies in PubMed up to 31 July 2021. Studies reporting associations between rs12785878 (DHCR7), rs10741657 (CYP2R1), rs6013897 (CYP24A1), or rs2282679 (GC) and cord blood 25(OH)D. One published study was included in addition to the novel data analysis. Associations between both maternal and offspring SNPs at rs2282679 (GC) and rs12785878 (DHCR7), and cord blood 25(OH)D were identified. When maternal genotype was adjusted for offspring genotype, and vice versa, there was persisting evidence for associations with maternal rs12785878 (β [95% CI] 1.6 nmol/L [0.3, 2.8] per common allele), and offspring rs2282679 (β 3.1 nmol/L ]2.0, 4.4] per common allele). Maternal and offspring SNPs at rs1074657 and rs613897 were not associated with cord blood 25(OH)D. RESULT Associations between both maternal and offspring SNPs at rs2282679 (GC) and rs12785878 (DHCR7), and cord blood 25(OH)D were identified. When maternal genotype was adjusted for offspring genotype, and vice versa, there was persisting evidence for associations with maternal rs12785878 (β [95% CI] 1.6 nmol/L [0.3, 2.8] per common allele), and offspring rs2282679 (β 3.1 nmol/L ]2.0, 4.4] per common allele). Maternal and offspring SNPs at rs1074657 and rs613897 were not associated with cord blood 25(OH)D. CONCLUSION Common genetic variation in the vitamin D metabolism pathway is associated with umbilical cord blood 25(OH)D.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca J Moon
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton,UK
- Paediatric Endocrinology, Southampton Children’s Hospital, Southampton University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton,UK
| | - Laura D F Cooke
- The Institute of Developmental Sciences, Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton,UK
| | - Stefania D’Angelo
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton,UK
| | - Elizabeth M Curtis
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton,UK
| | - Philip Titcombe
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton,UK
| | - Justin H Davies
- Paediatric Endocrinology, Southampton Children’s Hospital, Southampton University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton,UK
| | - Keith M Godfrey
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton,UK
- NIHR Southampton Nutrition Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton,UK
| | - Jane K Cleal
- The Institute of Developmental Sciences, Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton,UK
| | - Rohan M Lewis
- The Institute of Developmental Sciences, Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton,UK
| | - Cyrus Cooper
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton,UK
- NIHR Southampton Nutrition Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton,UK
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Musculoskeletal Biomedical Research Unit, University of Oxford, UK
| | - Nicholas C Harvey
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Centre, University of Southampton, Southampton,UK
- NIHR Southampton Nutrition Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton,UK
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Davies R, Griffiths C, Askelund K, Palaiologou E, Cleal JK, Page A, Chatelet DS, Goggin P, Chamley L, Lewis RM. Microvillous tip vesicles may be an origin of placental extracellular vesicles. Placenta 2022; 123:24-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2022.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2022] [Revised: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Cleal JK, Poore KR, Lewis RM. The placental exposome, placental epigenetic adaptations and lifelong cardio-metabolic health. Mol Aspects Med 2022; 87:101095. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2022.101095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Ashley B, Simner C, Manousopoulou A, Jenkinson C, Hey F, Frost JM, Rezwan FI, White CH, Lofthouse EM, Hyde E, Cooke LDF, Barton S, Mahon P, Curtis EM, Moon RJ, Crozier SR, Inskip HM, Godfrey KM, Holloway JW, Cooper C, Jones KS, Lewis RM, Hewison M, Garbis SDD, Branco MR, Harvey NC, Cleal JK. Placental uptake and metabolism of 25(OH)vitamin D determine its activity within the fetoplacental unit. eLife 2022; 11:71094. [PMID: 35256050 PMCID: PMC8903835 DOI: 10.7554/elife.71094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentrations are associated with maternal and fetal health outcomes. Using physiological human placental perfusion and villous explants, we investigate the role of the placenta in regulating the relationships between maternal 25(OH)D and fetal physiology. We demonstrate active placental uptake of 25(OH)D3 by endocytosis, placental metabolism of 25(OH)D3 into 24,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 and active 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D [1,25(OH)2D3], with subsequent release of these metabolites into both the maternal and fetal circulations. Active placental transport of 25(OH)D3 and synthesis of 1,25(OH)2D3 demonstrate that fetal supply is dependent on placental function rather than simply the availability of maternal 25(OH)D3. We demonstrate that 25(OH)D3 exposure induces rapid effects on the placental transcriptome and proteome. These map to multiple pathways central to placental function and thereby fetal development, independent of vitamin D transfer. Our data suggest that the underlying epigenetic landscape helps dictate the transcriptional response to vitamin D treatment. This is the first quantitative study demonstrating vitamin D transfer and metabolism by the human placenta, with widespread effects on the placenta itself. These data demonstrate a complex interplay between vitamin D and the placenta and will inform future interventions using vitamin D to support fetal development and maternal adaptations to pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brogan Ashley
- The Institute of Developmental Sciences, Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine University of SouthamptonSouthamptonUnited Kingdom
| | - Claire Simner
- The Institute of Developmental Sciences, Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine University of SouthamptonSouthamptonUnited Kingdom
| | - Antigoni Manousopoulou
- Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope National Medical CenterDuarteUnited States,Proteas Bioanalytics Inc, BioLabs at the Lundquist InstituteTorranceUnited States
| | - Carl Jenkinson
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, The University of BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
| | - Felicity Hey
- NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Nutritional Biomarker Laboratory. MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Clifford Allbutt Building, Cambridge Biomedical CampusCambridgeUnited Kingdom,Formerly at MRC Elsie Widdowson Laboratory, Cambridge, CB1 9NL l Merck Exploratory Science Center, Merck Research LaboratoriesCambridgeUnited States
| | - Jennifer M Frost
- Centre for Genomics and Child Health, Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Faisal I Rezwan
- The Institute of Developmental Sciences, Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine University of SouthamptonSouthamptonUnited Kingdom,School of Water, Energy and Environment, Cranfield UniversityCranfieldUnited Kingdom
| | - Cory H White
- The Institute of Developmental Sciences, Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine University of SouthamptonSouthamptonUnited Kingdom,Merck Exploratory Science Center, Merck Research LaboratoriesCambridgeUnited States
| | - Emma M Lofthouse
- The Institute of Developmental Sciences, Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine University of SouthamptonSouthamptonUnited Kingdom
| | - Emily Hyde
- The Institute of Developmental Sciences, Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine University of SouthamptonSouthamptonUnited Kingdom
| | - Laura DF Cooke
- The Institute of Developmental Sciences, Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine University of SouthamptonSouthamptonUnited Kingdom
| | - Sheila Barton
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Centre, University of SouthamptonSouthamptonUnited Kingdom
| | - Pamela Mahon
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Centre, University of SouthamptonSouthamptonUnited Kingdom
| | - Elizabeth M Curtis
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Centre, University of SouthamptonSouthamptonUnited Kingdom
| | - Rebecca J Moon
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Centre, University of SouthamptonSouthamptonUnited Kingdom
| | - Sarah R Crozier
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Centre, University of SouthamptonSouthamptonUnited Kingdom,NIHR Applied Research Collaboration Wessex, Southampton Science ParkSouthamptonUnited Kingdom
| | - Hazel M Inskip
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Centre, University of SouthamptonSouthamptonUnited Kingdom
| | - Keith M Godfrey
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Centre, University of SouthamptonSouthamptonUnited Kingdom,NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation TrustSouthamptonUnited Kingdom
| | - John W Holloway
- The Institute of Developmental Sciences, Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine University of SouthamptonSouthamptonUnited Kingdom
| | - Cyrus Cooper
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Centre, University of SouthamptonSouthamptonUnited Kingdom,NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation TrustSouthamptonUnited Kingdom,NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Center, University of OxfordOxfordUnited Kingdom
| | - Kerry S Jones
- NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, Nutritional Biomarker Laboratory. MRC Epidemiology Unit, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Clifford Allbutt Building, Cambridge Biomedical CampusCambridgeUnited Kingdom,Formerly at MRC Elsie Widdowson Laboratory, Cambridge, CB1 9NL l Merck Exploratory Science Center, Merck Research LaboratoriesCambridgeUnited States
| | - Rohan M Lewis
- The Institute of Developmental Sciences, Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine University of SouthamptonSouthamptonUnited Kingdom
| | - Martin Hewison
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, The University of BirminghamBirminghamUnited Kingdom
| | - Spiros DD Garbis
- Proteas Bioanalytics Inc, BioLabs at the Lundquist InstituteTorranceUnited States
| | - Miguel R Branco
- Centre for Genomics and Child Health, Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of LondonLondonUnited Kingdom
| | - Nicholas C Harvey
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Centre, University of SouthamptonSouthamptonUnited Kingdom,NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation TrustSouthamptonUnited Kingdom
| | - Jane K Cleal
- The Institute of Developmental Sciences, Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine University of SouthamptonSouthamptonUnited Kingdom
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Tashev SA, Parsons D, Hillman C, Harris S, Lofthouse EM, Goggin P, Chatelet DS, Cleal JK, Smyth N, Palaiologou H, Page A, Lewis RM. Folding of the syncytiotrophoblast basal plasma membrane increases the surface area available for exchange in human placenta. Placenta 2021; 117:57-63. [PMID: 34768170 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2021.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The placental syncytiotrophoblast is the primary barrier between the mother and the fetus. To cross the placenta, nutrients and wastes must be transported across the apical microvillous and basal plasma membranes. While the syncytiotrophoblast basal plasma membrane is typically represented as relatively smooth, it has been shown to have invaginations that may increase its surface area. This study aimed to quantify how folding of the syncytiotrophoblast basal membrane contributes to its surface area and to visualise three-dimensional structures of the basal membrane and cytotrophoblast cell structures. METHODS Transmission electron microscope images of human term placenta were analysed using stereological approaches to quantify how folding of the syncytiotrophoblast basal plasma membrane affected surface area. Serial block-face scanning electron microscopy was used to visualise the three-dimensional structure of the syncytiotrophoblast basal membrane and cytotrophoblast cells. RESULTS Syncytiotrophoblast basal membrane covered 69.1% of the basal lamina, with cytotrophoblast cells covering the remaining 30.9%. In basal lamina adjacent to syncytiotrophoblast, 34% was adjacent to smooth basal membrane and 66% to folded basal membrane. Syncytiotrophoblast basal membrane folds increased the surface area adjacent to basal lamina by 305%. Including regions overlying the cytotrophoblast cells, basal membrane folds increased syncytiotrophoblast basal membrane surface area by 4.4-fold relative to the basal lamina in terminal villi. Terminal and intermediate villi were similar in terms of trophoblast coverage of the basal lamina and basal membrane folding. The three-dimensional structures of the syncytiotrophoblast basal plasma membrane and cytotrophoblast cells were generated from serial block-face scanning electron microscopy image stacks. DISCUSSION These findings indicate that the surface area of the syncytiotrophoblast basal plasma membrane is far larger than had been appreciated. We suggest that these folds increase the surface area available for transport to and from the fetus. Changes in the extent of basal membrane folding could affect nutrient transfer capacity and underlie pathological fetal growth, including fetal growth restriction and macrosomia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Daisy Parsons
- University of Southampton, Faculty of Medicine, United Kingdom
| | - Cameron Hillman
- University of Southampton, Faculty of Life Sciences, United Kingdom
| | - Shelley Harris
- University of Southampton, Faculty of Medicine, United Kingdom
| | | | - Patricia Goggin
- University of Southampton, Faculty of Medicine, Biomedical Imaging Unit, United Kingdom
| | - David S Chatelet
- University of Southampton, Faculty of Medicine, Biomedical Imaging Unit, United Kingdom
| | - Jane K Cleal
- University of Southampton, Faculty of Medicine, United Kingdom; University of Southampton, Institute for Life Sciences, United Kingdom
| | - Neil Smyth
- University of Southampton, Faculty of Life Sciences, United Kingdom
| | | | - Anton Page
- University of Southampton, Faculty of Medicine, Biomedical Imaging Unit, United Kingdom
| | - Rohan M Lewis
- University of Southampton, Faculty of Medicine, United Kingdom; University of Southampton, Institute for Life Sciences, United Kingdom.
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11
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Lofthouse EM, Manousopoulou A, Cleal JK, O'Kelly IM, Poore KR, Garbis SD, Lewis RM. N-acetylcysteine, xCT and suppression of Maxi-chloride channel activity in human placenta. Placenta 2021; 110:46-55. [PMID: 34120018 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2021.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Placental oxidative stress features in pregnancy pathologies but in clinical trials antioxidant supplementation has not improved outcomes. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) stimulates glutathione production and is proposed as a therapeutic agent in pregnancy. However, key elements of N-acetylcysteine biology, including its cellular uptake mechanism, remains unclear. This study explores how the cystine/glutamate transporter xCT may mediate N-acetylcysteine uptake and how N-acetylcysteine alters placental redox status. METHODS The involvement of xCT in NAC uptake by the human placenta was studied in perfused placenta and Xenopus oocytes. The effect of short-term N-acetylcysteine exposure on the placental villous proteome was determined using LC-MS. The effect of N-acetylcysteine on Maxi-chloride channel activity was investigated in perfused placenta, villous fragments and cell culture. RESULTS Maternoplacental N-acetylcysteine administration stimulated intracellular glutamate efflux suggesting a role of the exchange transporter xCT, which was localised to the microvillous membrane of the placental syncytiotrophoblast. Placental exposure to a bolus of N-acetylcysteine inhibited subsequent activation of the redox sensitive Maxi-chloride channel independently of glutathione synthesis. Stable isotope quantitative proteomics of placental villi treated with N-acetylcysteine demonstrated changes in pathways associated with oxidative stress, apoptosis and the acute phase response. DISCUSSION This study suggests that xCT mediates N-acetylcysteine uptake into the placenta and that N-acetylcysteine treatment of placental tissue alters the placental proteome while regulating the redox sensitive Maxi-chloride channel. Interestingly N-acetylcysteine had antioxidant effects independent of the glutathione pathway. Effective placental antioxidant therapy in pregnancy may require maintaining the balance between normalising redox status without inhibiting physiological redox signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma M Lofthouse
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK; Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, UK.
| | - Antigoni Manousopoulou
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK; Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, UK; Beckman Research Institute, City of Hope National Medical Center, Duarte, CA, USA
| | - Jane K Cleal
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK; Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, UK
| | | | | | - Spiros D Garbis
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK; Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, UK; Proteome Exploration Laboratory, Beckman Institute, Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Rohan M Lewis
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK; Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, UK
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12
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Cooke LDF, Tumbarello DA, Harvey NC, Sethi JK, Lewis RM, Cleal JK. Endocytosis in the placenta: An undervalued mediator of placental transfer. Placenta 2021; 113:67-73. [PMID: 33994009 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2021.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Endocytosis is an essential mechanism for cellular uptake in many human tissues. A range of endocytic mechanisms occur including clathrin-dependent and -independent mechanisms. However, the role of endocytosis in the placenta and the spatial localisation of individual mechanisms is not well understood. The two principal cell layers that comprise the placental barrier to maternal-fetal transfer are the syncytiotrophoblast and fetal capillary endothelium. Endocytic uptake into the syncytiotrophoblast has been demonstrated for physiological maternal molecules such as transferrin-bound iron and low density lipoprotein (LDL) and may play an important role in the uptake of several other micronutrients, serum proteins, and therapeutics at both major placental cell barriers. These mechanisms may also mediate placental uptake of some viruses and nanoparticles. This review introduces the mechanisms of cargo-specific endocytosis and what is known about their localisation in the placenta, focussing predominantly on the syncytiotrophoblast. A fuller understanding of placental endocytosis is necessary to explain both fetal nutrition and the properties of the placental barrier. Characterising placental endocytic mechanisms and their regulation may allow us to identify their role in pregnancy pathologies and provide new avenues for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura D F Cooke
- The Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK.
| | - David A Tumbarello
- Biological Sciences, Faculty of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Highfield Campus, Life Sciences Building 85, Southampton, SO17 1BJ, UK
| | - Nicholas C Harvey
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK; NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Jaswinder K Sethi
- The Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK; NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK; Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Rohan M Lewis
- The Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK; Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Jane K Cleal
- The Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK; Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
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13
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Harris SE, Matthews KS, Palaiologou E, Tashev SA, Lofthouse EM, Pearson-Farr J, Goggin P, Chatelet DS, Johnston DA, Jongen MS, Page AM, Cleal JK, Lewis RM. Pericytes on placental capillaries in terminal villi preferentially cover endothelial junctions in regions furthest away from the trophoblast. Placenta 2020; 104:1-7. [PMID: 33190063 PMCID: PMC7921774 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2020.10.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2020] [Revised: 10/23/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Pericytes are a common feature in the placental microvasculature but their roles are not well understood. Pericytes may provide physical or endocrine support for endothelium and in some tissues mediate vasoconstriction. Methods This study uses serial block-face scanning electron microscopy (SBFSEM) to generate three-dimensional (3D) reconstructions of placental pericytes of the terminal villi and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to study pericyte endothelial cell interactions. The proportion of endothelial cell junctions covered by pericytes was determined. Results The detailed 3D models of placental pericytes show pericyte structure at a new level of detail. Placental pericytes have many fingers extending from the cell body which can span multiple capillary branches. The proportion of endothelial cell-cell junctions covered by pericytes was significantly higher than pericyte coverage of capillary endothelium as a whole (endothelium: 14%, junctions: 43%, p < 0.0001). However, the proportion of endothelial cell-cell junctions covered by pericytes in regions adjacent to trophoblast was reduced compared to regions >3 μm away from trophoblast (27% vs 62% respectively, p < 0.001). No junctional complexes were observed connecting pericytes and endothelial cells but there were regions of cell membrane with features suggestive of intercellular adhesions. Discussion These data suggest that the localisation of pericytes on the villous capillary is not random but organised in relation to both endothelial junctions and the location of adjacent trophoblast. This further suggests that pericyte coverage may favour capillary permeability in regions that are most important for exchange, but limit capillary permeability in other regions. Three-dimensional imaging highlights the structure of placental pericytes. Placental pericytes preferentially cover endothelial junctions. The proportion of covered junctions decreased in regions adjacent to trophoblasts. The localisation of placental pericytes suggests endothelial coverage is non-random. Junction coverage may alter capillary permeability in key regions of exchange.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shelley E Harris
- Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK
| | - Kate Sh Matthews
- Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK
| | - Eleni Palaiologou
- Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK
| | - Stanimir A Tashev
- Biomedical Imaging Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK
| | - Emma M Lofthouse
- Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK
| | | | - Patricia Goggin
- Biomedical Imaging Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK
| | - David S Chatelet
- Biomedical Imaging Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK
| | - David A Johnston
- Biomedical Imaging Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK
| | - Maaike Sa Jongen
- Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK
| | - Anton M Page
- Biomedical Imaging Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK
| | - Jane K Cleal
- Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK; Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, UK
| | - Rohan M Lewis
- Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK; Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, UK.
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14
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Woolford SJ, Curtis EM, D'Angelo S, Mahon P, Cooke L, Cleal JK, Crozier SR, Godfrey KM, Inskip HM, Cooper C, Harvey NC. Placental volume at 11 weeks is associated with offspring bone mass at birth and in later childhood: Findings from the Southampton Women's Survey. Placenta 2020; 99:101-107. [PMID: 32784052 PMCID: PMC7116131 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2020.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2020] [Revised: 07/14/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate associations between placental volume (PV) at 11 weeks' gestation and offspring bone outcomes at birth, 6 years and 8 years. METHODS 3D ultrasound scanning was used to assess 11 week PV in a subset (n = 236) of the Southampton Women's Survey (a prospective mother-offspring cohort). Maternal anthropometric measures and lifestyle information were obtained pre-pregnancy and at 11 weeks' gestation. Offspring dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry scanning was performed within 2 weeks postnatally and at 6 and 8 years. Linear regression was used to assess associations between PV and bone outcomes, adjusting for offspring age at DXA and sex, and maternal age, height, smoking status, walking speed and triceps skinfold thickness. β are SD change in bone outcome per SD change in PV. RESULTS In adjusted models, 11 week PV was positively associated with bone area (BA) at all time points, with evidence of persisting associations with increasing childhood age (birth: n = 80, β = 0.23 [95%CI = 0.03, 0.42], 6 years: n = 110, β = 0.17 [-0.01, 0.36], 8 years: n = 85, β = 0.13 [-0.09, 0.36]). Similar associations between 11 week PV and bone mineral content (BMC) were observed. Associations with size-corrected bone mineral content were weaker at birth but strengthened in later childhood (birth: n = 78, β = 0.07 [-0.21, 0.35], 6 years: n = 107, β = 0.13 [-0.08, 0.34], 8 years: n = 71, β = 0.19 [-0.05, 0.43]). CONCLUSIONS 11 week PV is associated with DXA bone measures at birth, with evidence of persisting associations into later childhood. Further work is required to elucidate the contributions of placental morphology and function to gestational influences on skeletal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- S J Woolford
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - E M Curtis
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - S D'Angelo
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - P Mahon
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - L Cooke
- Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - J K Cleal
- Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - S R Crozier
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - K M Godfrey
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK; NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - H M Inskip
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK; NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - C Cooper
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK; NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK; NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - N C Harvey
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK; NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK.
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15
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Lofthouse EM, Cleal JK, Hudson G, Lewis RM, Sengers BG. Glibenclamide transfer across the perfused human placenta is determined by albumin binding not transporter activity. Eur J Pharm Sci 2020; 152:105436. [PMID: 32592753 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejps.2020.105436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 05/29/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The placenta mediates the transfer of maternal nutrients into the fetal circulation while removing fetal waste products, drugs and environmental toxins that may otherwise be detrimental to fetal development. This study investigated the role of drug transporters and protein binding in the transfer of the antidiabetic drug glibenclamide across the human placental syncytiotrophoblast using placental perfusion experiments and computational modeling. In the absence of albumin, placental glibenclamide uptake from the fetal circulation was not affected by competitive inhibition with bromosulphothalein (BSP), indicating that OATP2B1 does not mediate placental glibenclamide uptake from the fetus. In the presence of maternal and fetal albumin, BSP increased placental glibenclamide uptake from the fetal circulation by displacing glibenclamide from BSA, increasing the free fraction of glibenclamide driving diffusive transport. The P-gp and BCRP inhibitor GF120918 did not affect placental glibenclamide uptake from the maternal circulation and as such this study did not find any evidence for the apical efflux transporters in placental glibenclamide transfer. Computational modeling confirmed that albumin binding and not transporter activity, is the dominant factor in the transfer of glibenclamide across the human placenta. The effect of BSP binding to albumin on promoting the diffusive transfer of glibenclamide highlights the importance of drug-protein binding interactions and their interpretation using computational modeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma M Lofthouse
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK; Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, UK
| | - Jane K Cleal
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK; Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, UK
| | | | - Rohan M Lewis
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK; Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, UK
| | - Bram G Sengers
- Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Southampton, UK; Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, UK.
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16
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Simner CL, Ashley B, Cooper C, Harvey NC, Lewis RM, Cleal JK. Investigating a suitable model for the study of vitamin D mediated regulation of human placental gene expression. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2020; 199:105576. [PMID: 31904414 PMCID: PMC7021509 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2019.105576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2019] [Revised: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 12/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Transfer and metabolism of vitamin D across the human placenta is required for fetal development. However, these fundamental mechanisms are not well understood and model systems are required to help understand them. The BeWo choriocarcinoma cell line is derived from extravillous trophoblast but is used as a model for villous syncytiotrophoblast and the placental barrier. Questions have been raised about the suitability of the BeWo cell line as a model for villous trophoblast. This study compares the expression of amino acid transporters and vitamin D related genes in human term placenta with the BeWo and human embryonic kidney (HEK)293 cell lines. HEK293 cells, as transporting epithelium may be more similar to placenta. Gene expression in term placenta was much more similar to HEK293 than BeWo. This study provides further evidence that the BeWo cell line is not an appropriate model for villous trophoblast and a model that more closely represents the human placenta is now required to investigate the effects of vitamin D on the placenta ex-vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire L Simner
- Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Brogan Ashley
- Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Cyrus Cooper
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK; NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK; NIHR Musculoskeletal Biomedical Research Unit, University of Oxford, Nuffield Orthopedic Centre, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7HE, UK
| | - Nicholas C Harvey
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK; NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Rohan M Lewis
- Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Jane K Cleal
- Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK.
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17
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Palaiologou E, Goggin P, Chatelet DS, Ribeiro de Souza R, Chiu W, Ashley B, Lofthouse EM, Sengers BG, Torrens C, Page AM, Cleal JK, Lewis RM. Serial block-face scanning electron microscopy reveals novel intercellular connections in human term placental microvasculature. J Anat 2020; 237:241-249. [PMID: 32242928 PMCID: PMC7369196 DOI: 10.1111/joa.13191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2019] [Revised: 03/03/2020] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The placental microvasculature is a conduit for fetal blood allowing solute exchange between the mother and the fetus. Serial block‐face scanning electron microscopy (SBF SEM) allows ultrastructure to be viewed in three dimensions and provides a new perspective on placental anatomy. This study used SBF SEM to study endothelial cells within the human placental microvasculature from uncomplicated pregnancies. Term human placental villi were aldehyde‐fixed and processed for imaging by SBF SEM. Manual segmentation was carried out on a terminal villous capillary and an intermediate villous arteriole and venule. Twenty‐seven SBF SEM stacks from terminal villi were analysed using stereological approaches to determine the volumes of microvascular components and the proportions of pericyte coverage. SBF SEM analysis of capillary endothelial cells revealed the presence of interendothelial protrusions (IEPs) originating from the donor cell at the endothelial junction and forming deep thin projections up to 7 μm into the adjacent endothelial cells. IEP density was estimated to be in the order of 35 million cm–3 placental tissue. Pericytes cover 15% of the fetal capillary surface area in terminal villi. In comparison, the cytotrophoblast covered 24% of the syncytiotrophoblast basal membrane. A trans‐endothelial channel was observed in a region of the vasculo‐syncytial capillary. Pericyte coverage was extensive in both arteriole and venule. Three‐dimensional imaging of the placental microvasculature identified novel ultrastructural features and provided an insight into factors that may influence capillary permeability and placental function. We hypothesise that the IEPs may allow mechanosensing between adjacent endothelial cells to assist in the maintenance of vessel integrity. The numbers of endothelial junctions, the presence of trans‐endothelial channels and the extent of pericyte coverage all provide an insight into the factors determining capillary permeability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleni Palaiologou
- Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Patricia Goggin
- Biomedical Imaging Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - David S Chatelet
- Biomedical Imaging Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | | | - Wendy Chiu
- Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Brogan Ashley
- Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Emma M Lofthouse
- Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Bram G Sengers
- Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.,Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Christopher Torrens
- Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.,Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Anton M Page
- Biomedical Imaging Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Jane K Cleal
- Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.,Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Rohan M Lewis
- Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.,Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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18
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Abstract
The isolated perfused placental cotyledon technique has led to numerous advances in placental biology. Combining placental perfusion with mathematical modelling provides an additional level of insight into placental function. Mathematical modelling of perfusion data provides a quantitative framework to test the understanding of the underlying biology and to explore how different processes work together within the placenta as part of an integrated system. The perfusion technique provides a high degree of control over the experimental conditions as well as regular measurements of functional parameters such as pressure, solute concentrations and pH over time. This level of control is ideal for modelling as it allows placental function to be studied across a wide range of different conditions which permits robust testing of mathematical models. By placing quantitative values on different processes (e.g. transport, metabolism, blood flow), their relative contribution to the system can be estimated and those most likely to become rate-limiting identified. Using a combined placental perfusion and modelling approach, placental metabolism was shown to be a more important determinant of amino acid and fatty acid transfer. In contrast, metabolism was a less important determinant of placental cortisol transfer than initially thought. Identifying the rate-limiting factors in the system allows future work to be focused on the factors that are most likely to underlie placental dysfunction. A combined experimental and modelling approach using placental perfusions promotes an integrated view of placental physiology that can more effectively identify the processes leading to placental pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohan M Lewis
- University of Southampton, Faulty of Medicine, UK; University of Southampton, Institute for Life Sciences, UK.
| | - Jane K Cleal
- University of Southampton, Faulty of Medicine, UK; University of Southampton, Institute for Life Sciences, UK
| | - Bram G Sengers
- University of Southampton, Institute for Life Sciences, UK; University of Southampton, Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, UK
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19
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Palaiologou E, Etter O, Goggin P, Chatelet DS, Johnston DA, Lofthouse EM, Doherty R, Pearson-Farr J, Sengers BG, Torrens C, Cleal JK, Page AM, Lewis RM. Human placental villi contain stromal macrovesicles associated with networks of stellate cells. J Anat 2019; 236:132-141. [PMID: 31512233 PMCID: PMC6904625 DOI: 10.1111/joa.13082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Placental function is essential for fetal development and establishing the foundations for lifelong health. The placental villous stroma is a connective tissue layer that supports the fetal capillaries and villous trophoblast. All the nutrients that cross the placenta must also cross the stroma, and yet little is known about this region. This study uses high‐resolution three‐dimensional imaging to explore the structural complexity of this region within the placental villi. Serial block‐face scanning electron microscopy and confocal microscopy were used to image the placental villous stroma in three‐dimensions. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to generate high resolution two‐dimensional images. Stereological approaches were used to quantify volumes of stromal constituents. Three‐dimensional imaging identified stromal extracellular vesicles, which constituted 3.9% of the villous stromal volume. These stromal extracellular vesicles were ovoid in shape, had a median length of 2750 nm (range 350–7730 nm) and TEM imaging confirmed that they were bounded by a lipid bilayer. Fifty‐nine per cent of extracellular vesicles were in contact with a fibroblast‐like stellate cell and these vesicles were significantly larger than those where no contact was observed. These stellate cells formed local networks with adherent junctions observed at contact points. This study demonstrates that the villous stroma contains extracellular macrovesicles which are considerably larger than any previously described in tissue or plasma. The size and abundance of these macrovesicles in the villous stroma highlight the diversity of extracellular vesicle biology and their roles within connective tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Palaiologou
- Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - O Etter
- Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - P Goggin
- Biomedical Imaging Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - D S Chatelet
- Biomedical Imaging Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - D A Johnston
- Biomedical Imaging Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - E M Lofthouse
- Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - R Doherty
- Biomedical Imaging Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - J Pearson-Farr
- Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - B G Sengers
- Faculty of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.,Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - C Torrens
- Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.,Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - J K Cleal
- Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.,Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - A M Page
- Biomedical Imaging Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - R M Lewis
- Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.,Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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20
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Lofthouse EM, Torrens C, Manousopoulou A, Nahar M, Cleal JK, O'Kelly IM, Sengers BG, Garbis SD, Lewis RM. Ursodeoxycholic acid inhibits uptake and vasoconstrictor effects of taurocholate in human placenta. FASEB J 2019; 33:8211-8220. [PMID: 30922127 PMCID: PMC6593889 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201900015rr] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) causes increased transfer of maternal bile acids to the fetus and an increased incidence of sudden fetal death. Treatment includes ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), but it is not clear if UDCA protects the fetus. This study explores the placental transport of the bile acid taurocholate (TC) by the organic anion-transporting polypeptide, (OATP)4A1, its effects on the placental proteome and vascular function, and how these are modified by UDCA. Various methodological approaches including placental villous fragments and Xenopus laevis oocytes were used to investigate UDCA transport. Placental perfusions and myography investigated the effect of TC on vasculature. The effects of acute TC exposure on placental tissue were investigated using quantitative proteomics. UDCA inhibited OATP4A1 activity in placental villous fragments and oocytes. TC induced vasoconstriction in placental and rat vasculature, which was attenuated by UDCA. Quantitative proteomic analysis of villous fragments showed direct effects of TC on multiple placental pathways, including oxidative stress and autophagy. The effects of TC on the placental proteome and vasculature demonstrate how bile acids may cause fetal distress in ICP. UDCA inhibition of OATP4A1 suggests it will protect the mother and fetus against the vascular effects of TC by inhibiting its cellular uptake. UDCA may protect the fetus in ICP by inhibiting OATP4A1-mediated bile acid transfer and TC-induced placental vasoconstriction. Understanding the physiologic mechanisms of UDCA may allow better therapeutic interventions to be designed specifically for the fetus in the future.-Lofthouse, E. M., Torrens, C., Manousopoulou, A., Nahar, M., Cleal, J. K., O'Kelly, I. M., Sengers, B. G., Garbis, S. D., Lewis, R. M. Ursodeoxycholic acid inhibits uptake and vasoconstrictor effects of taurocholate in human placenta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma M Lofthouse
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom.,Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher Torrens
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom.,Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | | | - Monica Nahar
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Jane K Cleal
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom.,Faculty of Engineering, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom; and
| | - Ita M O'Kelly
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Bram G Sengers
- Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom.,Faculty of Engineering, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom; and
| | - Spiros D Garbis
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom.,Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom.,Division of Biology and Biological Engineering, Proteome Exploration Laboratory, Beckman Institute, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California, USA
| | - Rohan M Lewis
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom.,Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
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Abstract
Placental amino acid transfer is a complex process that is essential for fetal development. Impaired amino acid transfer causes fetal growth restriction, which may have lifelong health consequences. Transepithelial transfer of amino acids across the placental syncytiotrophoblast requires accumulative, exchange and facilitated transporters on the apical and basal membranes to work in concert. However, transporters alone do not determine amino acid transfer and factors that affect substrate availability, such as blood flow and metabolism, may also become rate-limiting for transfer. In order to determine the rate-limiting processes, it is necessary to take a systems approach which recognises the interdependence of these processes. New technologies have the potential to deliver targeted interventions to the placenta and help poorly growing fetuses. While many factors are necessary for amino acid transfer, novel therapies need to target the rate-limiting factors if they are going to be effective. This review will outline the factors which determine amino acid transfer and describe how they become interdependent. It will also highlight the role of computational modelling as a tool to understand this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane K. Cleal
- Faculty of MedicineUniversity of SouthamptonSouthamptonUK
- Institute of Life SciencesUniversity of SouthamptonSouthamptonUK
| | - Emma M. Lofthouse
- Faculty of MedicineUniversity of SouthamptonSouthamptonUK
- Institute of Life SciencesUniversity of SouthamptonSouthamptonUK
| | - Bram G. Sengers
- Institute of Life SciencesUniversity of SouthamptonSouthamptonUK
- Faculty of Engineering and the EnvironmentUniversity of SouthamptonSouthamptonUK
| | - Rohan M. Lewis
- Faculty of MedicineUniversity of SouthamptonSouthamptonUK
- Institute of Life SciencesUniversity of SouthamptonSouthamptonUK
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22
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Abstract
Objective MicroRNAs (miRNAs) may serve as potential biomarkers in a variety of pathologies. The aim of this study was to determine whether miRNAs could serve as blood-based markers of isolated coronary artery calcification (CAC) defined as CAC in the absence of an underlying metabolic abnormality. Methods 24 age-matched and sex-matched patients who had been referred for elective CT coronary calcium score and angiography as part of investigation for cardiac chest pain were recruited. Peripheral venesection was performed and an Agatston calcium score was derived from the CT coronary angiogram using default software. RNA was extracted using the LeukoLOCK Total RNA Isolation System for Toray's microarray analysis and quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR). Results The patients were well matched for age, sex and conventional risk factors for coronary artery disease. Microarray analysis identified lower expression of miRNA-138-2-3p, miRNA-1181, miRNA-6816-3p and miRNA-8059 in patients with coronary artery calcium score (CACS)=0 vs CACS>100. qRT-PCR confirmed significant downregulation of miRNA-8059 in patients with CACS>100 (CACS=0 vs CACS>100; P=0.03). Conclusion miRNA-8059 may serve as a peripheral blood-based biomarker for the presence of CAC, as well as provide a platform for studying the pathophysiological basis of isolated CAC. Trial registration number NCT01992848; Results.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jane K Cleal
- Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Huihai Wu
- Department of Cardiology, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Nikunj Shah
- Department of Cardiology, University of Surrey, Guildford, UK
| | - Alex Horton
- Cardiology, Royal Surrey County Hospital, Guildford, UK
| | - Nick Curzen
- Wessex Cardiac Unit, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Michael Mahmoudi
- Wessex Cardiac Unit, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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23
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Simner C, Novakovic B, Lillycrop KA, Bell CG, Harvey NC, Cooper C, Saffery R, Lewis RM, Cleal JK. DNA methylation of amino acid transporter genes in the human placenta. Placenta 2017; 60:64-73. [PMID: 29208242 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2017.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2017] [Revised: 10/27/2017] [Accepted: 10/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Placental transfer of amino acids via amino acid transporters is essential for fetal growth. Little is known about the epigenetic regulation of amino acid transporters in placenta. This study investigates the DNA methylation status of amino acid transporters and their expression across gestation in human placenta. METHODS BeWo cells were treated with 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine to inhibit methylation and assess the effects on amino acid transporter gene expression. The DNA methylation levels of amino acid transporter genes in human placenta were determined across gestation using DNA methylation array data. Placental amino acid transporter gene expression across gestation was also analysed using data from publically available Gene Expression Omnibus data sets. The expression levels of these transporters at term were established using RNA sequencing data. RESULTS Inhibition of DNA methylation in BeWo cells demonstrated that expression of specific amino acid transporters can be inversely associated with DNA methylation. Amino acid transporters expressed in term placenta generally showed low levels of promoter DNA methylation. Transporters with little or no expression in term placenta tended to be more highly methylated at gene promoter regions. The transporter genes SLC1A2, SLC1A3, SLC1A4, SLC7A5, SLC7A11 and SLC7A10 had significant changes in enhancer DNA methylation across gestation, as well as gene expression changes across gestation. CONCLUSION This study implicates DNA methylation in the regulation of amino acid transporter gene expression. However, in human placenta, DNA methylation of these genes remains low across gestation and does not always play an obvious role in regulating gene expression, despite clear evidence for differential expression as gestation proceeds.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Simner
- The Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, UK
| | - B Novakovic
- Cancer and Disease Epigenetics, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital and Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - K A Lillycrop
- The Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, UK; Centre for Biological Sciences, Faculty of Natural and Environmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
| | - C G Bell
- The Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, UK; MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, UK
| | - N C Harvey
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, UK; NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton, University Hospital Southampton, NHS Foundation Trust, UK
| | - C Cooper
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, UK; NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton, University Hospital Southampton, NHS Foundation Trust, UK; NIHR Oxford Musculoskeletal Biomedical Research Unit, University of Oxford, UK
| | - R Saffery
- Cancer and Disease Epigenetics, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Royal Children's Hospital and Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3052, Australia
| | - R M Lewis
- The Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, UK
| | - J K Cleal
- The Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, UK.
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Palaiologou E, Goggin P, Chatelet DS, Lofthouse EM, Torrens C, Sengers BG, Cleal JK, Page A, Lewis RM. Serial block-face scanning electron microscopy of erythrocytes protruding through the human placental syncytiotrophoblast. J Anat 2017; 231:634-637. [PMID: 28714092 PMCID: PMC5603844 DOI: 10.1111/joa.12658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/23/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The syncytiotrophoblast forms a continuous barrier between the maternal and fetal circulations. Here we present a serial block‐face scanning electron microscopy (SBFSEM) study, based on a single image stack, showing pooling of fetal blood underneath a region of stretched syncytiotrophoblast that has become detached from the basement membrane. Erythrocytes are protruding from discrete holes in the syncytiotrophoblast suggesting that, under specific circumstances, the syncytiotrophoblast may be permeable to fetal cells. This observation represents a pathological process but it poses questions about the physical properties and permeability of the syncytiotrophoblast and may represent an early stage in the formation of fibrin deposits in areas of syncytial denudation. This study also illustrates how the 3D images generated by SBFSEM allow the interpretation of structures that could not be understood from a single histological section.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Patricia Goggin
- Faculty of Medicine, Biomedical Imaging Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - David S Chatelet
- Faculty of Medicine, Biomedical Imaging Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | | | - Christopher Torrens
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.,Institute for life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Bram G Sengers
- Institute for life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.,Faculty of Engineering and the Environment, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Jane K Cleal
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.,Institute for life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Anton Page
- Faculty of Medicine, Biomedical Imaging Unit, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Rohan M Lewis
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.,Institute for life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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Van Rijn BB, Eijkelkamp N, Escudero MM, Thomas H, Cleal JK, Cagampang FR, Lewis RM. Placental inflammatory response to metformin treatment in obese pregnant mice. J Reprod Immunol 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2016.04.205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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26
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Van Rijn BB, Eijkelkamp N, Escudero MM, Thomas H, Cleal JK, Cagampang FR, Lewis RM. Placental Inflammatory Response to Metformin Treatment in Obese Pregnant Mice. J Reprod Immunol 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2016.04.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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27
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Barton SJ, Mosquera M, Cleal JK, Fuller AS, Crozier SR, Cooper C, Inskip HM, Holloway JW, Lewis RM, Godfrey KM. Relation of FTO gene variants to fetal growth trajectories: Findings from the Southampton Women's survey. Placenta 2015; 38:100-6. [PMID: 26907388 PMCID: PMC4776702 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2015.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2015] [Revised: 12/17/2015] [Accepted: 12/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Placental function is an important determinant of fetal growth, and fetal growth influences obesity risk in childhood and adult life. Here we investigated how FTO and MC4R gene variants linked with obesity relate to patterns of fetal growth and to placental FTO expression. Methods Southampton Women's Survey children (n = 1990) with measurements of fetal growth from 11 to 34 weeks gestation were genotyped for common gene variants in FTO (rs9939609, rs1421085) and MC4R (rs17782313). Linear mixed-effect models were used to analyse relations of gene variants with fetal growth. Results Fetuses with the rs9939609 A:A FTO genotype had faster biparietal diameter and head circumference growth velocities between 11 and 34 weeks gestation (by 0.012 (95% CI 0.005 to 0.019) and 0.008 (0.002–0.015) standard deviations per week, respectively) compared to fetuses with the T:T FTO genotype; abdominal circumference growth velocity did not differ between genotypes. FTO genotype was not associated with placental FTO expression, but higher placental FTO expression was independently associated with larger fetal size and higher placental ASCT2, EAAT2 and y + LAT2 amino acid transporter expression. Findings were similar for FTO rs1421085, and the MC4R gene variant was associated with the fetal growth velocity of head circumference. Discussion FTO gene variants are known to associate with obesity but this is the first time that the risk alleles and placental FTO expression have been linked with fetal growth trajectories. The lack of an association between FTO genotype and placental FTO expression adds to emerging evidence of complex biology underlying the association between FTO genotype and obesity. Variants in the FTO gene are previously known to be associated with obesity. discovered novel associations between FTO variants and growth trajectory of fetal head measures. also found novel associations between placental FTO expression and fetal size.
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Affiliation(s)
- S J Barton
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK.
| | - M Mosquera
- Institute of Developmental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK; Department of Physiological Sciences, Faculty of Health, University of Valle, Cali, Colombia
| | - J K Cleal
- Institute of Developmental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
| | - A S Fuller
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
| | - S R Crozier
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
| | - C Cooper
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK; NIHR Musculoskeletal Biomedical Research Unit, University of Oxford, Oxford, OX1 2JD, UK
| | - H M Inskip
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
| | - J W Holloway
- Human Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Human Development & Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
| | - R M Lewis
- Institute of Developmental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
| | - K M Godfrey
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK; NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK
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28
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Day PE, Ntani G, Crozier SR, Mahon PA, Inskip HM, Cooper C, Harvey NC, Godfrey KM, Hanson MA, Lewis RM, Cleal JK. Maternal Factors Are Associated with the Expression of Placental Genes Involved in Amino Acid Metabolism and Transport. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0143653. [PMID: 26657885 PMCID: PMC4682815 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0143653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2015] [Accepted: 11/07/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Maternal environment and lifestyle factors may modify placental function to match the mother’s capacity to support the demands of fetal growth. Much remains to be understood about maternal influences on placental metabolic and amino acid transporter gene expression. We investigated the influences of maternal lifestyle and body composition (e.g. fat and muscle content) on a selection of metabolic and amino acid transporter genes and their associations with fetal growth. Methods RNA was extracted from 102 term Southampton Women’s Survey placental samples. Expression of nine metabolic, seven exchange, eight accumulative and three facilitated transporter genes was analyzed using quantitative real-time PCR. Results Increased placental LAT2 (p = 0.01), y+LAT2 (p = 0.03), aspartate aminotransferase 2 (p = 0.02) and decreased aspartate aminotransferase 1 (p = 0.04) mRNA expression associated with pre-pregnancy maternal smoking. Placental mRNA expression of TAT1 (p = 0.01), ASCT1 (p = 0.03), mitochondrial branched chain aminotransferase (p = 0.02) and glutamine synthetase (p = 0.05) was positively associated with maternal strenuous exercise. Increased glutamine synthetase mRNA expression (r = 0.20, p = 0.05) associated with higher maternal diet quality (prudent dietary pattern) pre-pregnancy. Lower LAT4 (r = -0.25, p = 0.05) and aspartate aminotransferase 2 mRNA expression (r = -0.28, p = 0.01) associated with higher early pregnancy diet quality. Lower placental ASCT1 mRNA expression associated with measures of increased maternal fat mass, including pre-pregnancy BMI (r = -0.26, p = 0.01). Lower placental mRNA expression of alanine aminotransferase 2 associated with greater neonatal adiposity, for example neonatal subscapular skinfold thickness (r = -0.33, p = 0.001). Conclusion A number of maternal influences have been linked with outcomes in childhood, independently of neonatal size; our finding of associations between placental expression of transporter and metabolic genes and maternal smoking, physical activity and diet raises the possibility that their effects are mediated in part through alterations in placental function. The observed changes in placental gene expression in relation to modifiable maternal factors are important as they could form part of interventions aimed at maintaining a healthy lifestyle for the mother and for optimal fetal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pricilla E. Day
- Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, United Kingdom
| | - Georgia Ntani
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah R. Crozier
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, United Kingdom
| | - Pam A. Mahon
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, United Kingdom
| | - Hazel M. Inskip
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, United Kingdom
| | - Cyrus Cooper
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, United Kingdom
- NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, United Kingdom
- NIHR Musculoskeletal Biomedical Research Unit, University of Oxford, Nuffield Orthopedic Centre, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7HE, United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas C. Harvey
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, United Kingdom
- NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, United Kingdom
| | - Keith M. Godfrey
- Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, United Kingdom
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit, University of Southampton, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, United Kingdom
- NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, United Kingdom
| | - Mark A. Hanson
- Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, United Kingdom
- NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, United Kingdom
| | - Rohan M. Lewis
- Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, United Kingdom
- Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
| | - Jane K. Cleal
- Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Tremona Road, Southampton, SO16 6YD, United Kingdom
- Institute for Life Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, SO17 1BJ, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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29
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Lofthouse EM, Brooks S, Cleal JK, Hanson MA, Poore KR, O'Kelly IM, Lewis RM. Glutamate cycling may drive organic anion transport on the basal membrane of human placental syncytiotrophoblast. J Physiol 2015; 593:4549-59. [PMID: 26277985 PMCID: PMC4606536 DOI: 10.1113/jp270743] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2015] [Accepted: 08/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Key points The placenta removes waste products, drugs and environmental toxins from the fetal circulation and two of the transport proteins responsible for this are OAT4 and OATP2B1 localised to the basal membrane of placental syncytiotrophoblast. We provide evidence that OAT4 and OATP2B1 mediate glutamate efflux when expressed in Xenopus oocytes and that in the perfused placenta, bromosulphothalein (an OAT4 and OATP2B1 substrate) stimulates glutamate efflux. Furthermore the efflux of glutamate can only be seen in the presence of aspartate, which will block glutamate reuptake by the placenta, consistent with cycling of glutamate across the basal membrane. We propose that glutamate efflux down its transmembrane gradient drives placental uptake via OAT4 and OATP2B1 from the fetal circulation and that reuptake of glutamate maintains this driving gradient.
Abstract The organic anion transporter OAT4 (SLC22A11) and organic anion transporting polypeptide OATP2B1 (SLCO2B1) are expressed in the basal membrane of the placental syncytiotrophoblast. These transporters mediate exchange whereby uptake of one organic anion is coupled to efflux of a counter‐ion. In placenta, these exchangers mediate placental uptake of substrates for oestrogen synthesis as well as clearing waste products and xenobiotics from the fetal circulation. However, the identity of the counter‐ion driving this transport in the placenta, and in other tissues, is unclear. While glutamate is not a known OAT4 or OATP2B1 substrate, we propose that its high intracellular concentration has the potential to drive accumulation of substrates from the fetal circulation. In the isolated perfused placenta, glutamate exchange was observed between the placenta and the fetal circulation. This exchange could not be explained by known glutamate exchangers. However, glutamate efflux was trans‐stimulated by an OAT4 and OATP2B1 substrate (bromosulphothalein). Exchange of glutamate for bromosulphothalein was only observed when glutamate reuptake was inhibited (by addition of aspartate). To determine if OAT4 and/or OATP2B1 mediate glutamate exchange, uptake and efflux of glutamate were investigated in Xenopus laevis oocytes. Our data demonstrate that in Xenopus oocytes expressing either OAT4 or OATP2B1 efflux of intracellular [14C]glutamate could be stimulated by conditions including extracellular glutamate (OAT4), estrone‐sulphate and bromosulphothalein (both OAT4 and OATP2B1) or pravastatin (OATP2B1). Cycling of glutamate across the placenta involving efflux via OAT4 and OATP2B1 and subsequent reuptake will drive placental uptake of organic anions from the fetal circulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma M Lofthouse
- University of Southampton, Faculty of Medicine, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton, UK
| | - Suzanne Brooks
- University of Southampton, Faculty of Medicine, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton, UK
| | - Jane K Cleal
- University of Southampton, Faculty of Medicine, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton, UK
| | - Mark A Hanson
- University of Southampton, Faculty of Medicine, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton, UK
| | - Kirsten R Poore
- University of Southampton, Faculty of Medicine, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton, UK
| | - Ita M O'Kelly
- University of Southampton, Faculty of Medicine, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton, UK
| | - Rohan M Lewis
- University of Southampton, Faculty of Medicine, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton, UK
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30
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Mosquera M, Cleal JK, Barton SJ, Holloway JW, Sibbons C, Inskip HM, Calder PC, Cooper C, Godfrey KM, Lewis RM. Placental FTO gene expression is correlated with maternal fatty acid concentration in blood at early and late pregnancy. Placenta 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2014.06.156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Cleal JK, Shepherd JN, Shearer JL, Bruce KD, Cagampang FR. Sensitivity of housekeeping genes in the suprachiasmatic nucleus of the mouse brain to diet and the daily light–dark cycle. Brain Res 2014; 1575:72-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2014.05.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2014] [Revised: 05/20/2014] [Accepted: 05/21/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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32
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Poore KR, Hollis LJ, Murray RJS, Warlow A, Brewin A, Fulford L, Cleal JK, Lillycrop KA, Burdge GC, Hanson MA, Green LR. Differential pathways to adult metabolic dysfunction following poor nutrition at two critical developmental periods in sheep. PLoS One 2014; 9:e90994. [PMID: 24603546 PMCID: PMC3946277 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0090994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2013] [Accepted: 02/07/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Epidemiological and experimental studies suggest early nutrition has long-term effects on susceptibility to obesity, cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Small and large animal models confirm the influence of different windows of sensitivity, from fetal to early postnatal life, on offspring phenotype. We showed previously that undernutrition in sheep either during the first month of gestation or immediately after weaning induces differential, sex-specific changes in adult metabolic and cardiovascular systems. The current study aims to determine metabolic and molecular changes that underlie differences in lipid and glucose metabolism induced by undernutrition during specific developmental periods in male and female sheep. Ewes received 100% (C) or 50% nutritional requirements (U) from 1–31 days gestation, and 100% thereafter. From weaning (12 weeks) to 25 weeks, offspring were then fed either ad libitum (CC, UC) or were undernourished (CU, UU) to reduce body weight to 85% of their individual target. From 25 weeks, all offspring were fed ad libitum. A cohort of late gestation fetuses were studied after receiving either 40% nutritional requirements (1–31 days gestation) or 50% nutritional requirements (104–127 days gestation). Post-weaning undernutrition increased in vivo insulin sensitivity, insulin receptor and glucose transporter 4 expression in muscle, and lowered hepatic methylation at the delta-like homolog 1/maternally expressed gene 3 imprinted cluster in adult females, but not males. Early gestational undernutrition induced lower hepatic expression of gluconeogenic factors in fetuses and reduced in vivo adipose tissue insulin sensitivity in adulthood. In males, undernutrition in early gestation increased adipose tissue lipid handling mechanisms (lipoprotein lipase, glucocorticoid receptor expression) and hepatic methylation within the imprinted control region of insulin-like growth factor 2 receptor in adulthood. Therefore, undernutrition during development induces changes in mechanisms of lipid and glucose metabolism which differ between tissues and sexes dependent on the period of nutritional restriction. Such changes may increase later life obesity and dyslipidaemia risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten R. Poore
- Academic Unit of Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Lisa J. Hollis
- Academic Unit of Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Robert J. S. Murray
- Academic Unit of Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Anna Warlow
- Academic Unit of Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Andrew Brewin
- Academic Unit of Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Laurence Fulford
- Academic Unit of Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Jane K. Cleal
- Academic Unit of Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Karen A. Lillycrop
- Academic Unit of Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Graham C. Burdge
- Academic Unit of Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Mark A. Hanson
- Academic Unit of Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Lucy R. Green
- Academic Unit of Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, United Kingdom
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Day PE, Cleal JK, Lofthouse EM, Hanson MA, Lewis RM. What factors determine placental glucose transfer kinetics? Placenta 2013; 34:953-8. [PMID: 23886770 PMCID: PMC3776928 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2013.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2013] [Revised: 07/03/2013] [Accepted: 07/05/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Transfer of glucose across the human placenta is directly proportional to maternal glucose concentrations even when these are well above the physiological range. This study investigates the relationship between maternal and fetal glucose concentrations and transfer across the placenta. METHODS Transfer of d-glucose, (3)H-3-o-methyl-d-glucose ((3)H-3MG) and (14)C-l-glucose across the isolated perfused human placental cotyledon was determined for maternal and fetal arterial d-glucose concentrations between 0 and 20 mmol/l. RESULTS Clearance of (3)H-3MG or (14)C-l-glucose was not affected by maternal or fetal d-glucose concentrations in either circulation. DISCUSSION Based on the arterial glucose concentrations and the reported KM for GLUT1, the transfer of d-glucose and (3)H-3MG would be expected to show signs of saturation as d-glucose concentrations increased but this did not occur. One explanation for this is that incomplete mixing of maternal blood and the rate of diffusion across unstirred layers may lower the effective concentration of glucose at the microvillous membrane and subsequently at the basal membrane. Uncertainties about the affinity of GLUT1 for glucose, both outside and inside the cell, may also contribute to the difference between the predicted and observed kinetics. CONCLUSION These factors may therefore help explain why the observed and predicted kinetics differ and they emphasise the importance of understanding the function of transport proteins in their physiological context. The development of a computational model of glucose transfer may improve our understanding of how the determinants of placental glucose transfer interact and function as a system.
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Affiliation(s)
- P E Day
- Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Faculty of Medicine, Southampton SO16 6YD, United Kingdom
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Abstract
The intrauterine environment has an important influence on lifelong health, and babies who grew poorly in the womb are more likely to develop chronic diseases in later life. Placental function is a major determinant of fetal growth and is therefore also a key influence on lifelong health. The capacity of the placenta to transport nutrients to the fetus and regulate fetal growth is determined by both maternal and fetal signals. The way in which the placenta responds to these signals will have been subject to evolutionary selective pressures. The responses selected are those which increase Darwinian fitness, i.e. reproductive success. This review asks whether in addition to responding to short-term signals, such as a rise in maternal nutrient levels, the placenta also responds to longer-term signals representing the mother's phenotype as a measure of environmental influences across her life course. Understanding how the placenta responds to maternal signals is therefore not only important for promoting optimal fetal growth but can also give insights into how human evolution affected developmental history with long-term effects on health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- R M Lewis
- University of Southampton, Faculty of Medicine, Southampton, UK.
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Cleal JK, Glazier JD, Ntani G, Crozier SR, Day PE, Harvey NC, Robinson SM, Cooper C, Godfrey KM, Hanson MA, Lewis RM. Facilitated transporters mediate net efflux of amino acids to the fetus across the basal membrane of the placental syncytiotrophoblast. J Physiol 2011; 589:987-97. [PMID: 21224231 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2010.198549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Fetal growth depends on placental transfer of amino acids from maternal to fetal blood. The mechanisms of net amino acid efflux across the basal membrane (BM) of the placental syncytiotrophoblast to the fetus, although vital for amino acid transport, are poorly understood. We examined the hypothesis that facilitated diffusion by the amino acid transporters TAT1, LAT3 and LAT4 plays an important role in this process, with possible effects on fetal growth. Amino acid transfer was measured in isolated perfused human placental cotyledons (n = 5 per experiment) using techniques which distinguish between different transport processes. Placental TAT1, LAT3 and LAT4 proteins were measured, and mRNA expression levels (measured using real-time quantitative-PCR) were related to fetal and neonatal anthropometry and dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry measurements of neonatal lean mass in 102 Southampton Women's Survey (SWS) infants. Under conditions preventing transport by amino acid exchangers, all amino acids appearing in the fetal circulation were substrates of TAT1, LAT3 or LAT4. Western blots demonstrated the presence of TAT1, LAT3 and LAT4 in placental BM preparations. Placental TAT1 and LAT3 mRNA expression were positively associated with measures of fetal growth in SWS infants (P < 0.05). We provide evidence that the efflux transporters TAT1, LAT3 and LAT4 are present in the human placental BM, and may play an important role in the net efflux of amino acids to the fetus. Unlike other transporters they can increase fetal amino acid concentrations. Consistent with a role in placental amino acid transfer capacity and fetal growth TAT1 and LAT3 mRNA expression showed positive associations with infant size at birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- J K Cleal
- Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Mail point 887, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK.
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Cleal JK, Thomas M, Hanson MA, Paterson-Brown S, Gardiner HM, Green LR. Noninvasive fetal electrocardiography following intermittent umbilical cord occlusion in the preterm ovine fetus. BJOG 2010; 117:438-44. [PMID: 20374581 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-0528.2009.02471.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate whether a noninvasive fetal electrocardiography (fECG) system can identify cardiovascular responses to fetal hypoxaemia and validate the results using standard invasive fECG monitoring techniques. DESIGN Prospective cohort study. SETTING Biological research facilities at The University of Southampton. POPULATION OR SAMPLE Late gestation ovine fetuses; n = 5. METHODS Five fetal lambs underwent implantation of vascular catheters, umbilical cord occluder and invasive ECG chest electrodes under general anaesthesia (3% halothane/O(2)) at 119 days of gestation (term approximately 147 days of gestation). After 5 days of recovery blood pressure, blood gases, glucose and pH were monitored. At 124 and 125 days of gestation following a 10-minute baseline period a 90-second cord occlusion was applied. Noninvasive fetal ECG was recorded from maternal transabdominal electrodes using advanced signal-processing techniques, concurrently with invasive fECG recordings. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Comparison of T:QRS ratios of the ECG waveform from noninvasive and invasive fECG monitoring systems. RESULTS Our fECG monitoring system is able to demonstrate changes in waveforms during periods of hypoxaemia similar to those obtained invasively, which could indicate fetal distress. CONCLUSIONS These findings may indicate a future use for noninvasive electrocardiography during human fetal monitoring both before and during labour in term and preterm pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- J K Cleal
- Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, UK.
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Poore KR, Boullin JP, Cleal JK, Newman JP, Noakes DE, Hanson MA, Green LR. Sex- and age-specific effects of nutrition in early gestation and early postnatal life on hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis and sympathoadrenal function in adult sheep. J Physiol 2010; 588:2219-37. [PMID: 20421287 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2010.187682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The early-life environment affects risk of later metabolic disease, including glucose intolerance, insulin resistance and obesity. Changes in hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and sympathoadrenal function may underlie these disorders. To determine consequences of undernutrition in early gestation and/or immediately following weaning on HPA axis and sympathoadrenal function, 2- to 3-year-old Welsh Mountain ewes received 100% (C, n = 39) or 50% nutritional requirements (U, n = 41) from 1-31 days gestation, and 100% thereafter. From weaning (12 weeks) to 25 weeks of age, male and female offspring were then either fed ad libitum (CC, n = 22; UC, n = 19) or were undernourished (CU, n = 17; UU, n = 22) such that body weight was reduced to 85% of their individual target, based on a growth trajectory calculated from weights taken between birth and 12 weeks. From 25 weeks, ad libitum feeding was restored for all offspring. At 1.5 and 2.5 years, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and cortisol concentrations were measured at baseline and in response to corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) (0.5 microg kg(1)) plus arginine vasopressin (AVP) (0.1 microg kg(1)). At 2.5 years, HPA axis and sympathoadrenal (catecholamine) responses to a transport and isolation stress test were also measured. In females, post-weaning undernutrition reduced pituitary output (ACTH) but increased adrenocortical responsiveness (cortisol:ACTH area under curve) during CRF/AVP challenge at 1.5 years and increased adrenomedullary output (adrenaline) to stress at 2.5 years. In males, cortisol responses to stress at 2.5 years were reduced in those with slower growth rates from 12 to 25 weeks. Early gestation undernutrition was associated with increased adrenocortical output in 2.5-year-old females only. Pituitary and adrenal responses were also related to adult body composition. Thus, poor growth in the post-weaning period induced by nutrient restriction has sex- and age-specific effects on HPA and sympathoadrenal function. With altered glucose tolerance previously reported in this model, this may have long-term detrimental effects on metabolic homeostasis and cardiovascular function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten R Poore
- Institute of Developmental Sciences, Developmental Origins of Health and Disease Division, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.
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Lewis RM, Greenwood SL, Cleal JK, Crozier SR, Verrall L, Inskip HM, Cameron IT, Cooper C, Sibley CP, Hanson MA, Godfrey KM. Maternal muscle mass may influence system A activity in human placenta. Placenta 2010; 31:418-22. [PMID: 20206993 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2010.02.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2009] [Revised: 01/28/2010] [Accepted: 02/01/2010] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
During pregnancy, nutrient partitioning between the mother and fetus must balance promoting fetal survival and maintaining nutritional status of the mother for her health and future fertility. The nutritional status of the pregnant woman, reflected in her body composition, may affect placental function with consequences for fetal development. We investigated the relationship between maternal body composition and placental system A amino acid transporter activity in 103 term placentas from Southampton Women's Survey pregnancies. Placental system A activity was measured as Na(+)-dependent uptake of 10 mumol/L (14)C-methylaminoisobutyric acid (a system A specific amino acid analogue) in placental villous fragments. Maternal body composition was measured at enrollment pre-pregnancy; in 45 infants neonatal body composition was measured using dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry. Term placental system A activity was lower in women with smaller pre-pregnancy upper arm muscle area (r = 0.27, P = 0.007), but was not related to maternal fat mass. System A activity was lower in mothers who reported undertaking strenuous exercise (24.6 vs 29.7 pmol/mg/15 min in sedentary women, P = 0.03), but was not associated with other maternal lifestyle factors. Lower placental system A activity in women who reported strenuous exercise and had a lower arm muscle area may reflect an adaptation in placental function which protects maternal resources in those with lower nutrient reserves. This alteration may affect fetal development, altering fetal body composition, with long-term consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- R M Lewis
- Institute of Developmental Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Southampton, UK.
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Cleal JK, Day P, Hanson MA, Lewis RM. Measurement of housekeeping genes in human placenta. Placenta 2009; 30:1002-3. [PMID: 19819546 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2009.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2009] [Revised: 09/08/2009] [Accepted: 09/14/2009] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Torrens C, Snelling TH, Chau R, Shanmuganathan M, Cleal JK, Poore KR, Noakes DE, Poston L, Hanson MA, Green LR. Effects of pre- and periconceptional undernutrition on arterial function in adult female sheep are vascular bed dependent. Exp Physiol 2009; 94:1024-33. [PMID: 19561141 DOI: 10.1113/expphysiol.2009.047340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The nutritional environment during development and even prior to conception may contribute to cardiovascular risk. In mature adult female sheep, we investigated the effect of preconceptional and periconceptional maternal nutritional restriction on the vascular reactivity of arteries from four vascular beds supplying the heart, thorax, kidney and hindlimb. Welsh Mountain ewes received 100% of nutrient requirements throughout gestation (control group, C, n = 18), or 50% of nutrient requirements for 30 days prior to conception (preconceptional group, PRE, n = 20) or for 15 days either side of conception (periconceptional group, PERI, n = 31) and 100% thereafter. In 3.5-year-old female offspring, the left anterior descending coronary (LAD), left internal thoracic (LITA), right renal and second and third order femoral arteries were dissected and their reactivity was assessed by organ bath or wire myography. Vasoconstrictor responses were greater in both LAD and LITA from PERI offspring compared with C (P < 0.01), while vasoconstriction was unaffected by maternal diet in arteries from the renal and femoral circulations (P = n.s.). Endothelium-dependent and -independent vasodilatation was attenuated in third order femoral arteries of PRE and PERI groups compared with C (P < 0.05). Endothelium-independent vasodilatation was attenuated in both the LAD and renal arteries in the PERI group compared with C (P < 0.05). These data show that moderate maternal undernutrition either prior to or around conception affects vascular function of adult offspring. The effect depends on the timing of the insult, but also on the vascular bed studied and vessel hierarchy in the vascular tree.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Torrens
- Institute of Developmental Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK.
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Burrage DM, Braddick L, Cleal JK, Costello P, Noakes DE, Hanson MA, Green LR. The late gestation fetal cardiovascular response to hypoglycaemia is modified by prior peri-implantation undernutrition in sheep. J Physiol 2008; 587:611-24. [PMID: 19103677 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2008.165944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Undernourished late gestation fetuses display asymmetric growth restriction, suggestive of a redistribution of nutritional resources. The modification of fetal organ blood supply in response to acute hypoxia is well characterized, but it is not known whether similar responses occur in response to acute reductions in nutrition, or if such late gestation responses can be influenced by early gestation nutrition. In pregnant sheep, total nutrient requirements were restricted during the peri-implantation period (PI40, 40%; PI50, 50% of total, days 1-31) or in late gestation (L, 50% total, days 104-postmortem). Control animals were fed 100% nutrient requirements. Fetal organ blood flows were measured at baseline, and during acute fetal hypoglycaemia induced by maternal insulin infusion at 125 dGA. Baseline heart rate was increased in PI40 fetuses. During hypoglycaemia, an initial rise in fetal heart rate was followed by a slower fall. Fetal femoral artery blood flow decreased, and adrenal blood flow and femoral vascular resistance increased in all fetuses during hypoglycaemia. These changes were accompanied by increased fetal plasma adrenaline and cortisol, and reduced plasma insulin levels. The maximum femoral artery blood flow response to hypoglycaemia occurred earlier in PI50 and PI40 compared with control fetuses. The late gestation fetal cardiovascular response to acute hypoglycaemia was consistent with a redistribution of combined ventricular output away from the periphery and towards central organs. One element of the peripheral vascular response was modified by peri-implantation nutrient restriction, indicating that nutritional challenges early in gestation can have an enduring impact on cardiovascular control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah M Burrage
- Institute of Developmental Sciences, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton, UK
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Abstract
The mechanisms by which amino acids are transferred across the human placenta are fundamental to our understanding of foetal nutrition. Amino acid transfer across the human placenta is dependent on transport across both the microvillous and basal plasma membranes of the placental syncytiotrophoblast, and on metabolism within the syncytiotrophoblast. Although the principles underlying uptake of amino acids across the microvillous plasma membrane are well understood, the extent to which amino acids are metabolised within human placenta and the mechanisms by which amino acids are transported out of the placenta across the basal plasma membrane are not well understood. Understanding the mechanisms and regulation of amino acid transport is necessary to understand the causes of intrauterine growth restriction in human pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- J K Cleal
- The Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.
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Cleal JK, Poore KR, Newman JP, Noakes DE, Hanson MA, Green LR. The effect of maternal undernutrition in early gestation on gestation length and fetal and postnatal growth in sheep. Pediatr Res 2007; 62:422-7. [PMID: 17667859 DOI: 10.1203/pdr.0b013e31813cbe60] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
In utero undernutrition in humans may result in cardiovascular (CV), metabolic, and growth adaptations. In sheep, maternal nutrient restriction during pregnancy, without effects on fetal or birth weight, results in altered CV control in the offspring. Adjustment of gestation length after undernutrition could be a strategy to enhance postnatal health/survival. The aim of this study was to determine in sheep the effect of a 50% reduction in maternal nutrient intake [undernutrition group (U) versus 100%, control group (C)] during 1-31 d of gestation (dGA) on gestation length and offspring size. By 28 dGA, U ewes had gained less weight than C, and twin-bearing ewes had gained less weight than singleton-bearing ewes regardless of group (p<0.05). In different-sex twin pairs, maternal undernutrition resulted in longer gestation compared with C (146.5+/-0.6 versus 144.6+/-0.6 d, p<0.05). Increased weight gain by weaning (20.8+/-0.8 versus 17.9+/-0.8 kg, p<0.05) was observed in U male twins. These findings suggest that the strategy (i.e. growth rate or length of time in utero) adopted by the fetus to enhance immediate survival depends on offspring number and sex. This is likely to reflect the degree of constraint imposed on the fetus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane K Cleal
- Centre for Developmental Origins of Health and Disease, University of Southampton, Southampton, SO16 5YA United Kingdom.
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44
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Cleal JK, Poore KR, Boullin JP, Khan O, Chau R, Hambidge O, Torrens C, Newman JP, Poston L, Noakes DE, Hanson MA, Green LR. Mismatched pre- and postnatal nutrition leads to cardiovascular dysfunction and altered renal function in adulthood. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2007; 104:9529-33. [PMID: 17483483 PMCID: PMC1890528 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.0610373104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The early life environment has long-term implications for the risk of developing cardiovascular (CV) disease in adulthood. Fetal responses to changes in maternal nutrition may be of immediate benefit to the fetus, but the long-term effects of these adaptations may prove detrimental if nutrition in postnatal life does not match that predicted by the fetus on the basis of its prenatal environment. We tested this predictive adaptive response hypothesis with respect to CV function in sheep. We observed that a mismatch between pre- and postnatal nutrient environments induced an altered CV function in adult male sheep that was not seen when environments were similar. Sheep that received postnatal undernutrition alone had altered growth, CV function, and basal hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis activity in adulthood. Prenatal undernutrition induced greater weight gain by weaning compared with the prenatal control diet, which may provide a reserve in the face of a predicted poor diet in later life. In an adequate postnatal nutrient environment (i.e., relatively mismatched), these offspring exhibited cardiac hypertrophy and altered CV function in adulthood. These data support the concept that adult CV function can be determined by developmental responses to intrauterine nutrition made in expectation of the postnatal nutritional environment, and that if these predictions are not met, the adult may be maladapted and at greater risk of CV disease. Our findings have substantial implications for devising strategies to reduce the impact of a mismatch in nutrition levels in humans undergoing rapid socio-economic transitions in both developing and developed societies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane K. Cleal
- *Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Tremona Road, Southampton SO16 6YD, United Kingdom
| | - Kirsten R. Poore
- *Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Tremona Road, Southampton SO16 6YD, United Kingdom
| | - Julian P. Boullin
- *Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Tremona Road, Southampton SO16 6YD, United Kingdom
| | - Omar Khan
- *Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Tremona Road, Southampton SO16 6YD, United Kingdom
| | - Ryan Chau
- *Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Tremona Road, Southampton SO16 6YD, United Kingdom
| | - Oliver Hambidge
- *Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Tremona Road, Southampton SO16 6YD, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher Torrens
- *Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Tremona Road, Southampton SO16 6YD, United Kingdom
| | - James P. Newman
- *Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Tremona Road, Southampton SO16 6YD, United Kingdom
| | - Lucilla Poston
- Maternal and Fetal Research Unit, Division of Reproduction and Endocrinology, King's College London, London SE1 7EH, United Kingdom; and
| | - David E. Noakes
- Department of Veterinary Reproduction, Royal Veterinary College, Hertfordshire AL9 7TA, United Kingdom
| | - Mark A. Hanson
- *Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Tremona Road, Southampton SO16 6YD, United Kingdom
- To whom correspondence should be addressed at:
Institute of Developmental Sciences, Mailpoint 887, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton S016 6YD, United Kingdom. E-mail:
| | - Lucy R. Green
- *Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Tremona Road, Southampton SO16 6YD, United Kingdom
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Cleal JK, Brownbill P, Godfrey KM, Jackson JM, Jackson AA, Sibley CP, Hanson MA, Lewis RM. Modification of fetal plasma amino acid composition by placental amino acid exchangers in vitro. J Physiol 2007; 582:871-82. [PMID: 17478537 PMCID: PMC2075319 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2007.130690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Fetal growth is dependent on both the quantity and relative composition of amino acids delivered to the fetal circulation, and impaired placental amino acid supply is associated with restricted fetal growth. Amino acid exchangers can alter the composition, but not the quantity, of amino acids in the intra- and extracellular amino acid pools. In the placenta, exchangers may be important determinants of the amino acid composition in the fetal circulation. This study investigates the substrate specificity of exchange between the placenta and the feto-placental circulation. Maternal-fetal transfer of radiolabelled amino acids and creatinine were measured in the isolated perfused human placental cotyledon. Transfer of L-[14C]serine or L-[14C]leucine, and [3H]glycine, were measured in the absence of amino acids in the fetal circulation (transfer by non-exchange mechanisms) and following 10-20 micromol boluses of unlabelled amino acids into the fetal circulation to provide substrates for exchange (transfer by exchange and non-exchange mechanisms). The ability of fetal arterial boluses of L-alanine and L-leucine to stimulate release of amino acids from the placenta was also determined using HPLC in order to demonstrate the overall pattern of amino acid release. Experiments with radiolabelled amino acids demonstrated increased maternal-fetal transfer of L-serine and L-leucine, but not glycine, following boluses of specific amino acids into the fetal circulation. L-[14C]Leucine, but not L-[14C]serine or [3H]glycine, was transferred from the maternal to the fetal circulation by non-exchange mechanisms also (P<0.01). HPLC analysis demonstrated that fetal amino acid boluses stimulated increased transport of a range of different amino acids by 4-7 micromol l(-1) (P<0.05). Amino acid exchange provides a mechanism to supply the fetus with amino acids that it requires for fetal growth. This study demonstrates that these transporters have the capacity to exchange micromolar amounts of specific amino acids, and suggests that they play an important role in regulating fetal plasma amino acid composition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane K Cleal
- DOHaD Division, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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Poore KR, Cleal JK, Newman JP, Boullin JP, Noakes DE, Hanson MA, Green LR. Nutritional challenges during development induce sex-specific changes in glucose homeostasis in the adult sheep. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2007; 292:E32-9. [PMID: 16868224 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00253.2006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The early-life environment has implications for risk of adult-onset diseases, such as glucose intolerance, insulin insensitivity, and obesity, effects that may occur with or without reduced birth weight. We determined the consequences of nutrient restriction in early gestation and early postnatal life and their interactions on postnatal growth, body composition, and glucose handling. Ewes received 100% (C, n = 39) or 50% nutritional requirements (U, n = 41) from 1 to 31 days gestation and 100% thereafter. Male and female offspring (singleton/twin) from C and U ewes were then fed either ad libitum (CC n = 22, UC n = 19) or to reduce body weight to 85% of target from 12 to 25 wk of age (CU n = 17, UU n = 22) and ad libitum thereafter. At 1.5 and 2.5 yr, glucose handling was determined by area under the curve (AUC) for glucose and insulin concentrations following intravenous glucose (0.5 g/kg body wt). Insulin sensitivity was determined at 2.5 yr following intravenous insulin (0.5 IU/kg). In females, postnatal undernutrition reduced (P < 0.05) glucose AUC at both ages, regardless of prenatal nutrition. Postnatal undernutrition did not affect insulin secretion in females but enhanced insulin-induced glucose disappearance in singletons. Poor early postnatal growth was associated with increased fat in females. In males, glucose tolerance was unaffected by undernutrition despite changes in insulin AUC dependent on age, treatment, and single/twin birth. Nutrition in early postnatal life has long-lasting, sex-specific effects on glucose handling in sheep, likely due, in females, to enhanced insulin sensitivity. Improved glucose utilization may aid weight recovery but have negative implications for glucose homeostasis and body composition over the longer term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten R Poore
- Centre for DOHaD, University of Southampton, Princess Anne Hospital, Level F (MP 887 Coxford Road, Southampton SO16 5YA, UK.
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Boullin JP, Yue AM, Cleal JK, Braddick L, Burrage D, Noakes DE, Morgan JM, Hanson MA, Green LR. The Effect of Pre- and Peri-conceptional Undernutrition on Cardiac Electrophysiology in Adult Male Sheep Offspring. J Mol Cell Cardiol 2006. [DOI: 10.1016/j.yjmcc.2006.03.202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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