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Paul M, Barreda AP, Gregson A, Kahl R, King M, Hussein WM, Walker FR, Smith R, Zakar T, Paul JW. Regulation of 20α-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase Expression in Term Pregnant Human Myometrium Ex Vivo. Reprod Sci 2024; 31:150-161. [PMID: 37648943 PMCID: PMC10784398 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01333-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Metabolic inactivation of progesterone within uterine myocytes by 20α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (20α-HSD) has been postulated as a mechanism contributing to functional progesterone withdrawal at term. In humans, 20α-HSD is encoded by the gene AKR1C1. Myometrial AKR1C1 mRNA abundance has been reported to increase significantly during labor at term. In spontaneous preterm labor, however, we previously found no increase in AKR1C1 mRNA level in the myometrium except for preterm labor associated with clinical chorioamnionitis. This suggests that increased 20α-HSD activity is a mechanism through which inflammation drives progesterone withdrawal in preterm labor. In this study, we have determined the effects of various treatments of therapeutic relevance on AKR1C1 expression in pregnant human myometrium in an ex vivo culture system. AKR1C1 expression increased spontaneously during 48 h culture (p < 0.0001), consistent with the myometrium transitioning to a labor-like phenotype ex vivo, as reported previously. Serum supplementation, prostaglandin F2α, phorbol myristate acetate, and mechanical stretch had no effect on the culture-induced increase, whereas progesterone (p = 0.0058) and cAMP (p = 0.0202) further upregulated AKR1C1 expression. In contrast, culture-induced upregulation of AKR1C1 expression was dose-dependently repressed by three histone/protein deacetylase inhibitors: trichostatin A at 5 (p = 0.0172) and 25 µM (p = 0.0115); suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid at 0.5 (p = 0.0070), 1 (p = 0.0045), 2.5 (p = 0.0181), 5 (p = 0.0066) and 25 µM (p = 0.0014); and suberoyl bis-hydroxamic acid at 5 (p = 0.0480) and 25 µM (p = 0.0238). We propose the inhibition of histone/protein deacetylation helps to maintain the anti-inflammatory, pro-quiescence signaling of progesterone in pregnant human myometrium by blocking its metabolic inactivation. Histone deacetylase inhibitors may represent a class of agents that preserve or restore the progesterone sensitivity of the pregnant uterus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Paul
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
- Centre for Rehab Innovations, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Anna Paredes Barreda
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
- Mothers and Babies Research Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
| | - Amy Gregson
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
- Mothers and Babies Research Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
| | - Richard Kahl
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
- Mothers and Babies Research Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
| | - Madeline King
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
- Mothers and Babies Research Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
| | - Waleed M Hussein
- Institute for Molecular Bioscience, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, St. Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - Frederick R Walker
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
- Centre for Rehab Innovations, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Roger Smith
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
- Mothers and Babies Research Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
- John Hunter Hospital, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
| | - Tamas Zakar
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
- Mothers and Babies Research Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
- John Hunter Hospital, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
| | - Jonathan W Paul
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia.
- School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.
- Mothers and Babies Research Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia.
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Paul M, Paul JW, Hinwood M, Hood RJ, Martin K, Abdolhoseini M, Johnson SJ, Pollack M, Nilsson M, Walker FR. Clopidogrel Administration Impairs Post-Stroke Learning and Memory Recovery in Mice. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:11706. [PMID: 37511466 PMCID: PMC10380815 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241411706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 07/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Clopidogrel, which is one of the most prescribed antiplatelet medications in the world, is given to stroke survivors for the prevention of secondary cardiovascular events. Clopidogrel exerts its antiplatelet activity via antagonism of the P2Y12 receptor (P2RY12). Although not widely known or considered during the initial clinical trials for clopidogrel, P2RY12 is also expressed on microglia, which are the brain's immune cells, where the receptor facilitates chemotactic migration toward sites of cellular damage. If microglial P2RY12 is blocked, microglia lose the ability to migrate to damaged sites and carry out essential repair processes. We aimed to investigate whether administering clopidogrel to mice post-stroke was associated with (i) impaired motor skills and cognitive recovery; (ii) physiological changes, such as survival rate and body weight; (iii) changes in the neurovascular unit, including blood vessels, microglia, and neurons; and (iv) changes in immune cells. Photothrombotic stroke (or sham surgery) was induced in adult male mice. From 24 h post-stroke, mice were treated daily for 14 days with either clopidogrel or a control. Cognitive performance (memory and learning) was assessed using a mouse touchscreen platform (paired associated learning task), while motor impairment was assessed using the cylinder task for paw asymmetry. On day 15, the mice were euthanized and their brains were collected for immunohistochemistry analysis. Clopidogrel administration significantly impaired learning and memory recovery, reduced mouse survival rates, and reduced body weight post-stroke. Furthermore, clopidogrel significantly increased vascular leakage, significantly increased the number and appearance of microglia, and significantly reduced the number of T cells within the peri-infarct region post-stroke. These data suggest that clopidogrel hampers cognitive performance post-stroke. This effect is potentially mediated by an increase in vascular permeability post-stroke, providing a pathway for clopidogrel to access the central nervous system, and thus, interfere in repair and recovery processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Paul
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
- Centre for Rehab Innovations, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Jonathan W Paul
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Madeleine Hinwood
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
- Centre for Rehab Innovations, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Rebecca J Hood
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
- Discipline of Anatomy and Pathology, School of Biomedicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Kristy Martin
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
| | - Mahmoud Abdolhoseini
- School of Engineering, College of Engineering, Science and Environment, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Sarah J Johnson
- Centre for Rehab Innovations, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- School of Engineering, College of Engineering, Science and Environment, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Michael Pollack
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
- Centre for Rehab Innovations, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Michael Nilsson
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
- Centre for Rehab Innovations, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, The Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden
- LKC School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore 639798, Singapore
| | - Frederick R Walker
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
- Centre for Rehab Innovations, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
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Phung J, Wang C, Reeders J, Zakar T, Paul JW, Tyagi S, Pennell CE, Smith R. Preterm labor with and without chorioamnionitis is associated with activation of myometrial inflammatory networks: a comprehensive transcriptomic analysis. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2023; 228:330.e1-330.e18. [PMID: 36002050 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2022.08.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The onset of preterm labor is associated with inflammation. Previous studies suggested that this is distinct from the inflammation observed during term labor. Our previous work on 44 genes differentially expressed in myometria in term labor demonstrated a different pattern of gene expression from that observed in preterm laboring and nonlaboring myometria. We found increased expression of inflammatory genes in preterm labor associated with chorioamnionitis, but in the absence of chorioamnionitis observed no difference in gene expression in preterm myometria regardless of laboring status, suggesting that preterm labor is associated with different myometrial genes or signals originating from outside the myometrium. Given that a small subset of genes were assessed, this study aimed to use RNA sequencing and bioinformatics to assess the myometrial transcriptome during preterm labor in the presence and absence of chorioamnionitis. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to comprehensively determine protein-coding transcriptomic differences between preterm nonlaboring and preterm laboring myometria with and without chorioamnionitis. STUDY DESIGN Myometria were collected at cesarean delivery from preterm patients not in labor (n=16) and preterm patients in labor with chorioamnionitis (n=8) or without chorioamnionitis (n=6). Extracted RNA from myometrial tissue was prepared and sequenced using Illumina NovaSeq. Gene expression was quantified by mapping the sequence reads to the human reference genome (hg38). Differential gene expression analysis, gene set enrichment analysis, and weighted gene coexpression network analysis were used to comprehensively interrogate transcriptomic differences and their associated biology. RESULTS Differential gene expression analysis comparing preterm patients in labor with chorioamnionitis with preterm patients not in labor identified 931 differentially expressed genes, whereas comparing preterm patients in labor without chorioamnionitis with preterm patients not in labor identified no statistically significant gene expression changes. In contrast, gene set enrichment analysis and weighted gene coexpression network analysis demonstrated that preterm labor with and without chorioamnionitis was associated with enrichment of pathways involved in activation of the innate immune system and inflammation, and activation of G protein-coupled receptors. Key genes identified included chemotactic CYP4F3, CXCL8, DOCK2, and IRF1 in preterm labor with chorioamnionitis and CYP4F3, FCAR, CHUK, and IL13RA2 in preterm labor without chorioamnionitis. There was marked overlap in the pathways enriched in both preterm labor subtypes. CONCLUSION Differential gene expression analysis demonstrated that myometria from preterm patients in labor without chorioamnionitis and preterm patients not in labor were transcriptionally similar, whereas the presence of chorioamnionitis was associated with marked gene changes. In contrast, comprehensive bioinformatic analysis indicated that preterm labor with or without chorioamnionitis was associated with innate immune activation. All causes of preterm labor were associated with activation of the innate immune system, but this was more marked in the presence of chorioamnionitis. These data suggest that anti-inflammatory therapy may be relevant in managing preterm labor of all etiologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Phung
- Department of Maternity and Gynaecology, John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle, Australia; Mothers and Babies Research Centre, School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia.
| | - Carol Wang
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Jocelyn Reeders
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Tamas Zakar
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Jonathan W Paul
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Sonika Tyagi
- Central Clinical School, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Craig E Pennell
- Department of Maternity and Gynaecology, John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle, Australia; Mothers and Babies Research Centre, School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Roger Smith
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, The University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
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Paul M, Zakar T, Phung J, Gregson A, Barreda AP, Butler TA, Walker FR, Pennell C, Smith R, Paul JW. 20α-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase Expression in the Human Myometrium at Term and Preterm Birth: Relationships to Fetal Sex and Maternal Body Mass Index. Reprod Sci 2023:10.1007/s43032-023-01183-2. [PMID: 36765000 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01183-2] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023]
Abstract
The mechanism by which human labor is initiated in the presence of elevated circulating progesterone levels remains unknown. Recent evidence indicates that the progesterone-metabolizing enzyme, 20α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (20α-HSD), encoded by the gene AKR1C1, may contribute to functional progesterone withdrawal. We found that AKR1C1 expression significantly increased with labor onset in term myometrium, but not in preterm myometrium. Among preterm laboring deliveries, clinically diagnosed chorioamnionitis was associated with significantly elevated AKR1C1 expression. AKR1C1 expression positively correlated with BMI before labor and negatively correlated with BMI during labor. Analysis by fetal sex showed that AKR1C1 expression was significantly higher in women who delivered male babies compared to women who delivered female babies at term, but not preterm. Further, in pregnancies where the fetus was female, AKR1C1 expression positively correlated with the mother's age and BMI at the time of delivery. In conclusion, the increase in myometrial AKR1C1 expression with term labor is consistent with 20α-HSD playing a role in local progesterone metabolism to promote birth. Interestingly, this role appears to be specific to term pregnancies where the fetus is male. Upregulated AKR1C1 expression in the myometrium at preterm in-labor with clinical chorioamnionitis suggests that increased 20α-HSD activity is a mechanism through which inflammation drives progesterone withdrawal in preterm labor. The link between AKR1C1 expression and maternal BMI may provide insight into why maternal obesity is often associated with dysfunctional labor. Higher myometrial AKR1C1 expression in male pregnancies may indicate fetal sex-related differences in the mechanisms that precipitate labor onset at term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Paul
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
- Centre for Rehab Innovations, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Tamas Zakar
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
- John Hunter Hospital, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
| | - Jason Phung
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
- John Hunter Hospital, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
| | - Amy Gregson
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
| | - Anna Paredes Barreda
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
| | - Trent A Butler
- John Hunter Hospital, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
| | - Frederick R Walker
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
- Centre for Rehab Innovations, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Craig Pennell
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
- John Hunter Hospital, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
| | - Roger Smith
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
- John Hunter Hospital, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
| | - Jonathan W Paul
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia.
- School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia.
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Coler BS, Shynlova O, Boros-Rausch A, Lye S, McCartney S, Leimert KB, Xu W, Chemtob S, Olson D, Li M, Huebner E, Curtin A, Kachikis A, Savitsky L, Paul JW, Smith R, Adams Waldorf KM. Landscape of Preterm Birth Therapeutics and a Path Forward. J Clin Med 2021; 10:2912. [PMID: 34209869 PMCID: PMC8268657 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10132912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Preterm birth (PTB) remains the leading cause of infant morbidity and mortality. Despite 50 years of research, therapeutic options are limited and many lack clear efficacy. Tocolytic agents are drugs that briefly delay PTB, typically to allow antenatal corticosteroid administration for accelerating fetal lung maturity or to transfer patients to high-level care facilities. Globally, there is an unmet need for better tocolytic agents, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Although most tocolytics, such as betamimetics and indomethacin, suppress downstream mediators of the parturition pathway, newer therapeutics are being designed to selectively target inflammatory checkpoints with the goal of providing broader and more effective tocolysis. However, the relatively small market for new PTB therapeutics and formidable regulatory hurdles have led to minimal pharmaceutical interest and a stagnant drug pipeline. In this review, we present the current landscape of PTB therapeutics, assessing the history of drug development, mechanisms of action, adverse effects, and the updated literature on drug efficacy. We also review the regulatory hurdles and other obstacles impairing novel tocolytic development. Ultimately, we present possible steps to expedite drug development and meet the growing need for effective preterm birth therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brahm Seymour Coler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; (B.S.C.); (S.M.); (M.L.); (E.H.); (A.C.); (A.K.); (L.S.)
- Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane, WA 99202, USA
| | - Oksana Shynlova
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; (O.S.); (A.B.-R.); (S.L.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1E2, Canada
| | - Adam Boros-Rausch
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; (O.S.); (A.B.-R.); (S.L.)
| | - Stephen Lye
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; (O.S.); (A.B.-R.); (S.L.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1E2, Canada
| | - Stephen McCartney
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; (B.S.C.); (S.M.); (M.L.); (E.H.); (A.C.); (A.K.); (L.S.)
| | - Kelycia B. Leimert
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R7, Canada; (K.B.L.); (W.X.); (D.O.)
| | - Wendy Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R7, Canada; (K.B.L.); (W.X.); (D.O.)
| | - Sylvain Chemtob
- Departments of Pediatrics, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada;
| | - David Olson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R7, Canada; (K.B.L.); (W.X.); (D.O.)
- Departments of Pediatrics and Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2S2, Canada
| | - Miranda Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; (B.S.C.); (S.M.); (M.L.); (E.H.); (A.C.); (A.K.); (L.S.)
- Department of Biological Sciencies, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Emily Huebner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; (B.S.C.); (S.M.); (M.L.); (E.H.); (A.C.); (A.K.); (L.S.)
| | - Anna Curtin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; (B.S.C.); (S.M.); (M.L.); (E.H.); (A.C.); (A.K.); (L.S.)
| | - Alisa Kachikis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; (B.S.C.); (S.M.); (M.L.); (E.H.); (A.C.); (A.K.); (L.S.)
| | - Leah Savitsky
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; (B.S.C.); (S.M.); (M.L.); (E.H.); (A.C.); (A.K.); (L.S.)
| | - Jonathan W. Paul
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; (J.W.P.); (R.S.)
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
| | - Roger Smith
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; (J.W.P.); (R.S.)
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
- John Hunter Hospital, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
| | - Kristina M. Adams Waldorf
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; (B.S.C.); (S.M.); (M.L.); (E.H.); (A.C.); (A.K.); (L.S.)
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
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Abstract
The characteristics of fetal membrane cells and their phenotypic adaptations to support pregnancy or promote parturition are defined by global patterns of gene expression controlled by chromatin structure. Heritable epigenetic chromatin modifications that include DNA methylation and covalent histone modifications establish chromatin regions permissive or exclusive of regulatory interactions defining the cell-specific scope and potential of gene activity. Non-coding RNAs acting at the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels complement the system by robustly stabilizing gene expression patterns and contributing to ordered phenotype transitions. Here we review currently available information about epigenetic gene regulation in the amnion and the chorion laeve. In addition, we provide an overview of epigenetic phenomena in the decidua, which is the maternal tissue fused to the chorion membrane forming the anatomical and functional unit called choriodecidua. The relationship of gene expression with DNA (CpG) methylation, histone acetylation and methylation, micro RNAs, long non-coding RNAs and chromatin accessibility is discussed in the context of normal pregnancy, parturition and pregnancy complications. Data generated using clinical samples and cell culture models strongly suggests that epigenetic events are associated with the phenotypic transitions of fetal membrane cells during the establishment, maintenance and termination of pregnancy potentially driving and consolidating the changes as pregnancy progresses. Disease conditions and environmental factors may produce epigenetic footprints that indicate exposures and mediate adverse pregnancy outcomes. Although knowledge is expanding rapidly, fetal membrane epigenetics is still in an early stage of development necessitating further research to realize its remarkable basic and translational potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamas Zakar
- Department of Maternity & Gynaecology, John Hunter Hospital, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
| | - Jonathan W. Paul
- School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia
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Smith R, Paul JW, Tolosa JM. Sharpey-Schafer Lecture 2019: From retroviruses to human birth. Exp Physiol 2020; 105:555-561. [PMID: 31856312 DOI: 10.1113/ep088155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
NEW FINDINGS What is the topic of this review? The timing of birth is an important determinant of future health and well-being. This review examines the role of endogenous retroviruses as upstream regulators of key biological functions of the placenta, including cell-cell fusion, modulation of the maternal immune system, and the production of key pregnancy hormones. What advances does it highlight? Endogenous retroviruses are an obligate requirement for successful human reproduction. The products of retroviral elements, incorporated into the germline millions of years ago, have been co-opted to serve vital biological roles within the placenta that ultimately dictate the length of human pregnancy and therefore well-being trajectories. ABSTRACT Gestational length at the time of birth is an important determinant of future health and well-being, yet the physiological regulation of the onset of labour in humans remains obscure. The evolution of egg formation and internal fertilisation in amniotes required a mechanism to suppress the contractile activity of the oviduct that is provided by progesterone. Delivery of the egg is then associated with the withdrawal of progesterone and a return of contractile activity to the reproductive tract. In mammals, the process of pregnancy is complicated further by the need to protect the fetus from potential attack by the maternal immune system. There is increasing evidence that retroviruses incorporated into the mammalian germline in the evolutionary past play a key role in suppressing the maternal immune reaction to the developing conceptus, organising the development of the placenta and perhaps, in humans, modulating the action of progesterone, determining gestational length and the onset of labour. It seems that the presence of an endogenous retrovirus is an obligate requirement for human reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roger Smith
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia.,John Hunter Hospital, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
| | - Jonathan W Paul
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
| | - Jorge M Tolosa
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
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Butler TA, Paul JW, Smith R. Non-conventional signalling in human myometrium by conventional pathways: looking back for a synergistic future. Current Opinion in Physiology 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cophys.2019.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Rowe CW, Dill T, Griffin N, Jobling P, Faulkner S, Paul JW, King S, Smith R, Hondermarck H. Innervation of papillary thyroid cancer and its association with extra-thyroidal invasion. Sci Rep 2020; 10:1539. [PMID: 32001748 PMCID: PMC6992619 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-58425-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [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: 08/06/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Nerves are emerging regulators of cancer progression and in several malignancies innervation of the tumour microenvironment is associated with tumour aggressiveness. However, the innervation of thyroid cancer is unclear. Here, we investigated the presence of nerves in thyroid cancers and the potential associations with clinicopathological parameters. Nerves were detected by immunohistochemistry using the pan-neuronal marker PGP9.5 in whole-slide sections of papillary thyroid cancer (PTC) (n = 75), compared to follicular thyroid cancer (FTC) (n = 13), and benign thyroid tissues (n = 26). Nerves were detected in most normal thyroid tissues and thyroid cancers, but nerve density was increased in PTC (12 nerves/cm2 [IQR 7–21]) compared to benign thyroid (6 nerves/cm2 [IQR: 3–10]) (p = 0.001). In contrast, no increase in nerve density was observed in FTC. In multivariate analysis, nerve density correlated positively with extrathyroidal invasion (p < 0.001), and inversely with tumour size (p < 0.001). The majority of nerves were adrenergic, although cholinergic and peptidergic innervation was detected. Perineural invasion was present in 35% of PTC, and was independently associated with extrathyroidal invasion (p = 0.008). This is the first report of infiltration of nerves into the tumour microenvironment of thyroid cancer and its association with tumour aggressiveness. The role of nerves in thyroid cancer pathogenesis should be further investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher W Rowe
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia. .,Department of Endocrinology, John Hunter Hospital, Locked Bag 1, Newcastle, NSW, 2310, Australia. .,Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, 2305, NSW, Australia.
| | - Tony Dill
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, NSW Health Pathology (Hunter), Locked Bag 1, HMRC, Newcastle, NSW, 2310, Australia.,ACT Pathology, Canberra Health Services, ACT Government, Canberra Hospital, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Nathan Griffin
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, 2305, NSW, Australia.,School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Phil Jobling
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Sam Faulkner
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, 2305, NSW, Australia.,School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Jonathan W Paul
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, 2305, NSW, Australia
| | - Simon King
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, NSW Health Pathology (Hunter), Locked Bag 1, HMRC, Newcastle, NSW, 2310, Australia
| | - Roger Smith
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.,Department of Endocrinology, John Hunter Hospital, Locked Bag 1, Newcastle, NSW, 2310, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, 2305, NSW, Australia
| | - Hubert Hondermarck
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, 2305, NSW, Australia.,School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
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Rowe CW, Faulkner S, Paul JW, Tolosa JM, Gedye C, Bendinelli C, Wynne K, McGrath S, Attia J, Smith R, Hondermarck H. The precursor for nerve growth factor (proNGF) is not a serum or biopsy-rinse biomarker for thyroid cancer diagnosis. BMC Endocr Disord 2019; 19:128. [PMID: 31775768 PMCID: PMC6882079 DOI: 10.1186/s12902-019-0457-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Nerves and neurotrophic growth factors are emerging promoters of cancer growth. The precursor for Nerve Growth Factor (proNGF) is overexpressed in thyroid cancer, but its potential role as a clinical biomarker has not been reported. Here we have examined the value of proNGF as a serum and biopsy-rinse biomarker for thyroid cancer diagnosis. METHODS Patients presenting for thyroid surgery or biopsy were enrolled in separate cohorts examining serum (n = 204, including 46 cases of thyroid cancer) and biopsy-rinse specimens (n = 188, including 26 cases of thyroid cancer). ProNGF levels in clinical samples were analysed by ELISA. Univariate and multivariate statistical analyses were used to compare proNGF levels with malignancy status and clinicopathological parameters. RESULTS ProNGF was not detected in the majority of serum samples (176/204, 86%) and the detection of proNGF was not associated with thyroid cancer diagnosis. In the few cases where proNGF was detected in the serum, thyroidectomy did not affect proNGF concentration, demonstrating that the thyroid was not the source of serum proNGF. Intriguingly, an association between hyperthyroidism and serum proNGF was observed (OR 3.3, 95% CI 1.6-8.7 p = 0.02). In biopsy-rinse, proNGF was detected in 73/188 (39%) cases, with no association between proNGF and thyroid cancer. However, a significant positive association between follicular lesions and biopsy-rinse proNGF was found (OR 3.3, 95% CI 1.2-8.7, p = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS ProNGF levels in serum and biopsy-rinse are not increased in thyroid cancer and therefore proNGF is not a clinical biomarker for this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher W Rowe
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia.
- Department of Endocrinology, John Hunter Hospital, Locked Bag 1 HMRC, Newcastle, 2310, Australia.
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, Australia.
| | - Sam Faulkner
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Jonathan W Paul
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, Australia
| | - Jorge M Tolosa
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, Australia
| | - Craig Gedye
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
- Department of Surgery, John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Cino Bendinelli
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Calvary Mater Newcastle, Waratah, Australia
| | - Katie Wynne
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology, John Hunter Hospital, Locked Bag 1 HMRC, Newcastle, 2310, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, Australia
| | - Shaun McGrath
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology, John Hunter Hospital, Locked Bag 1 HMRC, Newcastle, 2310, Australia
| | - John Attia
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, Australia
- Clinical Research Design, IT, and Statistical Support Unit, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Roger Smith
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology, John Hunter Hospital, Locked Bag 1 HMRC, Newcastle, 2310, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, Australia
| | - Hubert Hondermarck
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
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Rowe CW, Dill T, Faulkner S, Gedye C, Paul JW, Tolosa JM, Jones M, King S, Smith R, Hondermarck H. The Precursor for Nerve Growth Factor (proNGF) in Thyroid Cancer Lymph Node Metastases: Correlation with Primary Tumour and Pathological Variables. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20235924. [PMID: 31775361 PMCID: PMC6929117 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20235924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2019] [Revised: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 11/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Metastases in thyroid cancer are associated with aggressive disease and increased patient morbidity, but the factors driving metastatic progression are unclear. The precursor for nerve growth factor (proNGF) is increased in primary thyroid cancers, but its expression or significance in metastases is not known. In this study, we analysed the expression of proNGF in a retrospective cohort of thyroid cancer lymph node metastases (n = 56), linked with corresponding primary tumours, by automated immunohistochemistry and digital quantification. Potential associations of proNGF immunostaining with clinical and pathological parameters were investigated. ProNGF staining intensity (defined by the median h-score) was significantly higher in lymph node metastases (h-score 94, interquartile range (IQR) 50-147) than in corresponding primary tumours (57, IQR 42-84) (p = 0.002). There was a correlation between proNGF expression in primary tumours and corresponding metastases, where there was a 0.68 (95% CI 0 to 1.2) increase in metastatic tumour h-score for each unit increase in the primary tumour h-score. However, larger tumours (both primary and metastatic) had lower proNGF expression. In a multivariate model, proNGF expression in nodal metastases was negatively correlated with lateral neck disease and being male. In conclusion, ProNGF is expressed in locoregional metastases of thyroid cancer and is higher in lymph node metastases than in primary tumours, but is not associated with high-risk clinical features.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher W. Rowe
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan 2308, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology, John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle 2310, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights 2310, Australia
| | - Tony Dill
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, NSW Health Pathology (Hunter), Newcastle 2310, Australia
| | - Sam Faulkner
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights 2310, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan 2308, Australia
| | - Craig Gedye
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan 2308, Australia
- Department of Medical Oncology, Calvary Mater Newcastle, Waratah 2298, Australia
| | - Jonathan W. Paul
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan 2308, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights 2310, Australia
| | - Jorge M. Tolosa
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan 2308, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights 2310, Australia
| | - Mark Jones
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights 2310, Australia
| | - Simon King
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights 2310, Australia
- Department of Anatomical Pathology, NSW Health Pathology (Hunter), Newcastle 2310, Australia
| | - Roger Smith
- School of Medicine and Public Health, University of Newcastle, Callaghan 2308, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology, John Hunter Hospital, Newcastle 2310, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights 2310, Australia
| | - Hubert Hondermarck
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights 2310, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, University of Newcastle, Callaghan 2308, Australia
- Correspondence:
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Ilicic M, Zakar T, Paul JW. Epigenetic regulation of progesterone receptors and the onset of labour. Reprod Fertil Dev 2019; 31:1035-1048. [DOI: 10.1071/rd18392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2018] [Accepted: 01/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Progesterone plays a crucial role in maintaining pregnancy by promoting myometrial quiescence. The withdrawal of progesterone action signals the end of pregnancy and, in most mammalian species, this is achieved by a rapid fall in progesterone concentrations. However, in humans circulating progesterone concentrations remain high up to and during labour. Efforts to understand this phenomenon led to the ‘functional progesterone withdrawal’ hypothesis, whereby the pro-gestation actions of progesterone are withdrawn, despite circulating concentrations remaining elevated. The exact mechanism of functional progesterone withdrawal is still unclear and in recent years has been the focus of intense research. Emerging evidence now indicates that epigenetic regulation of progesterone receptor isoform expression may be the crucial mechanism by which functional progesterone withdrawal is achieved, effectively precipitating human labour despite high concentrations of circulating progesterone. This review examines current evidence that epigenetic mechanisms play a role in determining whether the pro-gestation or pro-contractile isoform of the progesterone receptor is expressed in the pregnant human uterus. We explore the mechanism by which these epigenetic modifications are achieved and, importantly, how these underlying epigenetic mechanisms are influenced by known regulators of uterine physiology, such as prostaglandins and oestrogens, in order to phenotypically transform the pregnant uterus and initiate labour.
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Ilicic M, Butler T, Zakar T, Paul JW. The expression of genes involved in myometrial contractility changes during ex situ culture of pregnant human uterine smooth muscle tissue. J Smooth Muscle Res 2018; 53:73-89. [PMID: 28652518 PMCID: PMC5487834 DOI: 10.1540/jsmr.53.73] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [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] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Ex situ analyses of human myometrial tissue has been used to
investigate the regulation of uterine quiescence and transition to a contractile
phenotype. Following concerns about the validity of cultured primary cells, we examined
whether myometrial tissue undergoes culture-induced changes ex situ that
may affect the validity of in vitro models. Objectives: To determine
whether human myometrial tissue undergoes culture-induced changes ex situ
in Estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1), Prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2
(PTGS2) and Oxytocin receptor (OXTR) expression.
Additionally, to determine whether culture conditions approaching the in
vivo environment influence the expression of these key genes. Methods: Term
non-laboring human myometrial tissues were cultured in the presence of specific
treatments, including; serum supplementation, progesterone and estrogen, cAMP, PMA,
stretch or NF-κB inhibitors. ESR1, PTGS2 and
OXTR mRNA abundance after 48 h culture was determined using
quantitative RT-PCR. Results: Myometrial tissue in culture exhibited culture-induced
up-regulation of ESR1 and PTGS2 and down-regulation of
OXTR mRNA expression. Progesterone prevented culture-induced increase
in ESR1 expression. Estrogen further up-regulated PTGS2
expression. Stretch had no direct effect, but blocked the effects of progesterone and
estrogen on ESR1 and PTGS2 expression. cAMP had no
effect whereas PMA further up-regulated PTGS2 expression and prevented
decline of OXTR expression. Conclusion: Human myometrial tissue in
culture undergoes culture-induced gene expression changes consistent with transition
toward a laboring phenotype. Changes in ESR1, PTGS2 and
OXTR expression could not be controlled simultaneously. Until optimal
culture conditions are determined, results of in vitro experiments with
myometrial tissues should be interpreted with caution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Ilicic
- School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.,Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
| | - Trent Butler
- School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.,Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
| | - Tamas Zakar
- School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.,Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia.,John Hunter Hospital, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
| | - Jonathan W Paul
- School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.,Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
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14
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Rowe CW, Paul JW, Gedye C, Tolosa JM, Bendinelli C, McGrath S, Smith R. Targeting the TSH receptor in thyroid cancer. Endocr Relat Cancer 2017; 24:R191-R202. [PMID: 28351942 DOI: 10.1530/erc-17-0010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2017] [Accepted: 03/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Recent advances in the arena of theranostics have necessitated a re-examining of previously established fields. The existing paradigm of therapeutic thyroid-stimulating hormone receptor (TSHR) targeting in the post-surgical management of differentiated thyroid cancer using levothyroxine and recombinant human thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is well understood. However, in an era of personalized medicine, and with an increasing awareness of the risk profile of longstanding pharmacological hyperthyroidism, it is imperative clinicians understand the molecular basis and magnitude of benefit for individual patients. Furthermore, TSHR has been recently re-conceived as a selective target for residual metastatic thyroid cancer, with pilot data demonstrating effective targeting of nanoparticles to thyroid cancers using this receptor as a target. This review examines the evidence for TSHR signaling as an oncogenic pathway and assesses the evidence for ongoing TSHR expression in thyroid cancer metastases. Priorities for further research are highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher W Rowe
- Department of EndocrinologyJohn Hunter Hospital, Newcastle, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public HealthUniversity of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research InstituteNewcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jonathan W Paul
- School of Medicine and Public HealthUniversity of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research InstituteNewcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Craig Gedye
- Hunter Medical Research InstituteNewcastle, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Medical OncologyCalvary Mater Newcastle, Waratah, Australia
- School of Biomedical Sciences and PharmacyUniversity of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Jorge M Tolosa
- School of Medicine and Public HealthUniversity of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research InstituteNewcastle, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Cino Bendinelli
- School of Medicine and Public HealthUniversity of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
- Department of SurgeryJohn Hunter Hospital, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Shaun McGrath
- Department of EndocrinologyJohn Hunter Hospital, Newcastle, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public HealthUniversity of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
| | - Roger Smith
- Department of EndocrinologyJohn Hunter Hospital, Newcastle, Australia
- School of Medicine and Public HealthUniversity of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia
- Hunter Medical Research InstituteNewcastle, New South Wales, Australia
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Paul JW, Hua S, Ilicic M, Tolosa JM, Butler T, Robertson S, Smith R. Drug delivery to the human and mouse uterus using immunoliposomes targeted to the oxytocin receptor. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2017; 216:283.e1-283.e14. [PMID: 27567564 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2016.08.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2016] [Revised: 08/05/2016] [Accepted: 08/16/2016] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The ability to provide safe and effective pharmacotherapy during obstetric complications, such as preterm labor or postpartum hemorrhage, is hampered by the systemic toxicity of therapeutic agents leading to adverse side effects in the mother and fetus. Development of novel strategies to target tocolytic and uterotonic agents specifically to uterine myocytes would improve therapeutic efficacy while minimizing the risk of side effects. Ligand-targeted liposomes have emerged as a reliable and versatile platform for targeted drug delivery to specific cell types, tissues or organs. OBJECTIVE Our objective was to develop a targeted drug delivery system for the uterus utilizing an immunoliposome platform targeting the oxytocin receptor. STUDY DESIGN We conjugated liposomes to an antibody that recognizes an extracellular domain of the oxytocin receptor. We then examined the ability of oxytocin receptor-targeted liposomes to deliver contraction-blocking (nifedipine, salbutamol and rolipram) or contraction-enhancing (dofetilide) agents to strips of spontaneously contracting myometrial tissue in vitro (human and mouse). We evaluated the ability of oxytocin receptor-targeted liposomes to localize to uterine tissue in vivo, and assessed if targeted liposomes loaded with indomethacin were capable of preventing lipopolysaccharide-induced preterm birth in mice. RESULTS Oxytocin receptor-targeted liposomes loaded with nifedipine, salbutamol or rolipram consistently abolished human myometrial contractions in vitro, while oxytocin receptor-targeted liposomes loaded with dofetilide increased contraction duration. Nontargeted control liposomes loaded with these agents had no effect. Similar results were observed in mouse uterine strips. Following in vivo administration to pregnant mice, oxytocin receptor-targeted liposomes localized specifically to the uterine horns and mammary tissue. Targeting increased localization to the uterus 7-fold. Localization was not detected in the maternal brain or fetus. Targeted and nontargeted liposomes also localized to the liver. Oxytocin receptor-targeted liposomes loaded with indomethacin were effective in reducing rates of preterm birth in mice, whereas nontargeted liposomes loaded with indomethacin had no effect. CONCLUSION Our results demonstrate that oxytocin receptor-targeted liposomes can be used to either inhibit or enhance human uterine contractions in vitro. In vivo, the liposomes localized to the uterine tissue of pregnant mice and were effective in delivering agents for the prevention of inflammation-induced preterm labor. The potential clinical advantage of targeted liposomal drug delivery to the myometrium is reduced dose and reduced toxicity to both mother and fetus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan W Paul
- Mothers and Babies Research Center, School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton, Australia
| | - Susan Hua
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton, Australia
| | - Marina Ilicic
- Mothers and Babies Research Center, School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton, Australia
| | - Jorge M Tolosa
- Mothers and Babies Research Center, School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton, Australia
| | - Trent Butler
- Mothers and Babies Research Center, School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton, Australia
| | - Sarah Robertson
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton, Australia; Robinson Research Institute and School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Roger Smith
- Mothers and Babies Research Center, School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia; Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton, Australia; John Hunter Hospital, New Lambton, Australia.
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16
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Heidari Kani M, Chan EC, Young RC, Butler T, Smith R, Paul JW. 3D Cell Culturing and Possibilities for Myometrial Tissue Engineering. Ann Biomed Eng 2016; 45:1746-1757. [PMID: 27770218 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-016-1749-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [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: 07/10/2016] [Accepted: 10/12/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Research insights into uterine function and the mechanisms of labour have been hindered by the lack of suitable animal and cellular models. The use of traditional culturing methods limits the exploration of complex uterine functions, such as cell interactions, connectivity and contractile behaviour, as it fails to mimic the three-dimensional (3D) nature of uterine cell interactions in vivo. Animal models are an option, however, use of these models is constrained by ethical considerations as well as translational limitations to humans. Evidence indicates that these limitations can be overcome by using 3D culture systems, or 3D Bioprinters, to model the in vivo cytological architecture of the tissue in an in vitro environment. 3D cultured or 3D printed cells can be used to form an artificial tissue. This artificial tissue can not only be used as an appropriate model in which to study cellular function and organisation, but could also be used for regenerative medicine purposes including organ or tissue transplantation, organ donation and obstetric care. The current review describes recent developments in cell culture that can facilitate the development of myometrial 3D structures and tissue engineering applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minoo Heidari Kani
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia. .,Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia. .,Priority Research Centre of Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.
| | - Eng-Cheng Chan
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia.,Priority Research Centre of Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Roger C Young
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Trent Butler
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia.,Priority Research Centre of Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Roger Smith
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia.,Priority Research Centre of Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.,John Hunter Hospital, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia
| | - Jonathan W Paul
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, School of Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, NSW, 2305, Australia.,Priority Research Centre of Reproductive Science, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
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Smith R, Imtiaz M, Banney D, Paul JW, Young RC. Reply. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2016; 214:300-301. [PMID: 26454125 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2015.09.104] [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: 09/22/2015] [Accepted: 09/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Smith R, Imtiaz M, Banney D, Paul JW, Young RC. Why the heart is like an orchestra and the uterus is like a soccer crowd. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2015; 213:181-5. [PMID: 26116101 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2015.06.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2015] [Revised: 06/01/2015] [Accepted: 06/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The human uterus has no pacemaker or motor innervation, yet develops rhythmic, powerful contractions that increase intrauterine pressure to dilate the cervix and force the fetus through the pelvis. To achieve the synchronous contractions required for labor, the muscle cells of the uterus act as independent oscillators that become increasingly coupled by gap junctions toward the end of pregnancy. The oscillations are facilitated by changes in resting membrane potential that occur as pregnancy progresses. Reductions of potassium channels in the myocyte membranes in late pregnancy prolong myocyte action potentials, further facilitating transmission of signals and recruitment of neighboring myocytes. Late in pregnancy prostaglandin production increases leading to increased myocyte excitability. Also late in pregnancy myocyte actin polymerizes allowing actin-myosin interactions that generate force, following myocyte depolarization, calcium entry, and activation of myosin kinase. Labor occurs as a consequence of the combination of increased myocyte to myocyte connectivity, increased depolarizations that last longer, and activated intracellular contractile machinery. During labor the synchronous contractions of muscle cells raise intrauterine pressure to dilate the cervix in a process distinct from peristalsis. The synchronous contractions occur in a progressively larger region of the uterine wall. As the size of the region increases with increasing connectivity, the contraction of that larger area leads to an increase in intrauterine pressure. The resulting increased wall tension causes myocyte depolarization in other parts of the uterus, generating widespread synchronous activity and increased force as more linked regions are recruited into the contraction. The emergent behavior of the uterus has parallels in the behavior of crowds at soccer matches that sing together without a conductor. This contrasts with the behavior of the heart where sequential contractions are regulated by a pacemaker in a similar way to the actions of a conductor and an orchestra.
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Maiti K, Paul JW, Read M, Chan EC, Riley SC, Nahar P, Smith R. G-1-activated membrane estrogen receptors mediate increased contractility of the human myometrium. Endocrinology 2011; 152:2448-55. [PMID: 21427217 DOI: 10.1210/en.2010-0979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [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: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Estrogens are key mediators of increased uterine contractility at labor. We sought to determine whether membrane-associated estrogen receptors, such as the recently described seven-transmembrane receptor G protein-coupled receptor 30 (GPR30), mediated some of this effect. Using human myometrium obtained at term cesarean section before or after the onset of labor, we demonstrated the presence of GPR30 mRNA and protein using quantitative RT-PCR and Western blotting. GPR30 receptor was localized to the cell membrane and often colocalized with calveolin-1. Using the specific estrogen membrane receptor agonist G-1 and myometrial explants, we showed that membrane receptor activation led to phosphorylation of MAPK and the actin-modifying small heat shock protein 27. Using myometrial strips incubated with G-1 or vehicle we demonstrated that estrogen membrane receptor activation increased the myometrial contractile response to oxytocin. These data suggest that activation of the plasma membrane estrogen receptor GPR30 likely participates in the physiology of the human myometrium during pregnancy and identifies it as a potential target to modify uterine activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Maiti
- Mothers & Babies Research Centre/Endocrine Unit, Faculty of Health/School of Medicine & Public Health, The University of Newcastle & John Hunter Hospital, New Soth Wales, Australia.
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Nixon B, Paul JW, Spiller CM, Attwell-Heap AG, Ashman LK, Aitken RJ. Evidence for the involvement of PECAM-1 in a receptor mediated signal-transduction pathway regulating capacitation-associated tyrosine phosphorylation in human spermatozoa. J Cell Sci 2006; 118:4865-77. [PMID: 16219692 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.02604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [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: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian spermatozoa must become ;capacitated' in the female reproductive tract before they gain the ability to fertilize the oocyte. The attainment of a capacitated state has been correlated with a number of biochemical changes, the most notable of which is a dramatic increase in the tyrosine phosphorylation status of these cells. Despite its biological importance, the mechanisms responsible for initiating this tyrosine phosphorylation cascade in vivo are unknown. Here, we report that this signalling pathway can be elicited in a rapid, dose-dependent and lectin-specific manner by wheat germ agglutinin (WGA), but none of 18 other lectins assessed. This response was abrogated by prior enzymatic cleavage of either sialic acid or GlcNAc residues from the sperm surface and by treatment with a range of pharmacological inhibitors directed against protein kinase A, protein tyrosine kinases and intermediates including Src. Proteomic analysis of the WGA-binding sites on the sperm surface identified the putative cognate receptor as platelet cell adhesion molecule 1 (PECAM-1/CD31). This conclusion was supported by the following evidence: (i) anti-PECAM-1 antibodies identified a molecule of the correct molecular mass in human spermatozoa, (ii) PECAM-1 could be isolated from a pool of sperm surface proteins using WGA immobilized on a solid phase support, (iii) PECAM-1 and WGA co-localized to the sperm surface and (iv) anti-PECAM-1 antibodies could completely block the ability of WGA to stimulate tyrosine phosphorylation in these cells. Collectively, these data provide the first evidence that a receptor-mediated signal transduction pathway triggers human sperm capacitation and identifies PECAM-1 as the probable initiator of this second messenger cascade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brett Nixon
- Reproductive Science Group, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
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Kannangara T, Utkhede RS, Paul JW, Punja ZK. Effects of mesophilic and thermophilic composts on suppression of Fusarium root and stem rot of greenhouse cucumber. Can J Microbiol 2000; 46:1021-8. [PMID: 11109490 DOI: 10.1139/w00-082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Three composts were tested for their ability to suppress root and stem rot caused by the soil borne fungal pathogen Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. radicis-cucumerinum (FORC) on cucumber. Two of the composts were prepared from separated dairy solids either by windrow (WDS) or vermicomposting (VMC) while the third, obtained from International Bio-Recovery (IBR), was prepared from vegetable refuse using aerobic digestion. Three sets of potting mixes were prepared by mixing the composts with sawdust at varying ratios, and seeded with cucumber cv. Corona. After 14 days of growth in the greenhouse, inoculum of FORC (20 mL of 5 x 10(6) micro-conidia per mL) was applied to each pot at three different times (14, 21, and 35 days). In unamended inoculated pots, the pathogen caused stunted growth and reduced flowers. Amendment of WDS in the potting mix suppressed these symptoms, while VMC and IBR had no effect. All three composts reduced the FORC colony forming units (cfu) at the end of the experiment (10 weeks). There was a large increase of fluorescent bacteria near the vicinity of roots particularly in WDS amended potting mixes. When water extracts of the composts were plated onto acidified potato dextrose agar (APDA), only IBR contained a potent thermostable inhibitor to FORC. This inhibitor was removed by activated charcoal but was not partitioned into petroleum ether at acid, basic, or neutral pH. Inhibition of FORC by IBR was not due to electrical conductivity or trace elements in the compost. Contrasting effectiveness of the WDS and VMC made from the same waste suggests that composting method can influence the disease suppression properties of the finished compost.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Kannangara
- Pacific Agri-Food Research Centre, Agassiz, BC, Canada
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Paul JW, DaVanzo JP. 1,1,3 Tricyano-2-amino-1-propene (Triap) stimulates choline acetyltransferase activity in vitro and in vivo. Brain Res Dev Brain Res 1992; 67:113-20. [PMID: 1511511 DOI: 10.1016/0165-3806(92)90212-f] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
1,1,3 Tricyano-2-amino-1-propene (Triap) is a small molecule that has neurotrophic properties similar to nerve growth factor (NGF). Studies have shown that NGF increases choline acetyltransferase (ChAT) activity, the enzyme responsible for the synthesis of acetylcholine, in several cell lines and in the CNS of adult animals. To investigate whether Triap can cause similar increases in ChAT enzyme activity, we used the PC12 cell line and primary cultures of rat fetal brain tissue to examine Triap's effects. Nanomolar concentrations of Triap produced a 4.2- and 2.1-fold increase in the ChAT activity of PC12 cells and cultured rat fetal brain cells, respectively. This stimulation reached a plateau within 4 days of treatment in the primary fetal brain cultures with the first increases evident within 24 h. In the PC12 cell line, Triap's stimulation of ChAT activity was significantly greater than increases produced by optimal concentrations of NGF. Triap also matched NGF's stimulation of ChAT activity in primary neuronal culture. Triap also potentiated NGF's actions on ChAT activity in the PC12 cell line and in primary fetal neuronal cultures. These increases in enzyme activity correlated with increases in cellular enzyme levels as assessed using immunochemical identification of the ChAT enzyme. We also conducted experiments to determine if Triap also induced these same increases in ChAT activity in adult animals. Ten-day chronic injections of Triap in mice resulted in significant increases in specific ChAT enzyme activity in the cortex and septal-hippocampal area. Similar increases in ChAT enzyme levels were also detected using western blotting techniques.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
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Affiliation(s)
- J W Paul
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858
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Paul JW, Quach TT, Duchemin AM, Schrier BK, DaVanzo JP. 1,1,3 tricyano-2-amino-1-propene (Triap): a small molecule which mimics or potentiates nerve growth factor. Brain Res Dev Brain Res 1990; 55:21-7. [PMID: 2208638 DOI: 10.1016/0165-3806(90)90101-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
1,1,3 Tricyano-2-amino-1-propene (Triap) is a small molecular weight compound which increases the rate of nerve and tissue regeneration in several experimental systems. Early experiments with this compound showed that, like nerve growth factor (NGF), Triap induced neurite formation in chick spinal ganglia. To assess the similarity between NGF and Triap, we compared the effects of Triap and NGF on a rat pheochromocytoma cell line (PC12) and on cell survival in a primary chick neuronal culture. In the latter, Triap at less than 0.01 nM preserved neurons and caused them to extend neurites as did 1 nM NGF. Triap induced neurite outgrowth in the PC12 cell line giving a maximal response (40-50% of the maximal response of NGF) at a concentration of 20 micrograms/ml (151 microM). Triap's morphological effects were not inhibited by antibodies directed against NGF or the NGF receptor. Low concentrations of Triap also potentiated the morphological effects of NGF. Triap induced an increase in cell-substratum adhesion and cellular hypertrophy in PC12 cells and also potentiated the adhesive actions of NGF. Triap had no effect on ornithine decarboxylase activity even though it potentiated NGF's effects on this enzyme. These data indicate that Triap induces neurotrophic effects and does not seem to act through the same mechanisms as NGF but can potentiate many of NGF's morphological and biochemical actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- J W Paul
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC 27858
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Paul JW, Kotz KW, Roche JK. Sensitization to epithelial antigens in chronic mucosal inflammatory disease: immunochemical similarity of macromolecules in human colonic epithelium with murine intestinal epithelial cell-associated components (ECAC). Immunol Suppl 1988; 65:551-7. [PMID: 2464542 PMCID: PMC1385564] [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] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
In order to explore whether human intestinal epithelium contains cell-associated components that are organ-specific and therefore potentially autoantigenic, macromolecules were isolated in aqueous-soluble form from histologically normal human colonic epithelial cells, partially purified under nondenaturing conditions, then characterized biochemically and immunologically. Preparative non-SDS-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis followed by electro-elution into a Tris-glycine buffer separated five human colonic fractions (yield 86%), all of which possessed an acidic isoelectric point (4.0-4.8) and a modest carbohydrate content (0.9-15%), resembling fractions of corresponding Rf similarly prepared from murine colonic epithelial cells. Immunological characterization suggested that two of the gel-purified fractions (B1, B2) isolated from colonic epithelium contained organ-specific determinants: (i) reactivity of B1/B2-specific immunoglobulin was not diminished by prior absorption with proteins from other epithelial surfaces (tracheal mucosal components) nor from normal serum; (ii) epitopes on ECAC B1 and B2 fractions were shared across species lines, with reactivity for the cross-reactive determinant being as much as 20-fold that of control protein; and (iii) localization studies with specific antibody showed an organ- and cell-restricted immunofluorescence pattern on freshly fixed human and murine mucosal epithelial tissue, using B1-specific monoclonal antibody. Given the reported binding of inflammatory bowel disease serum immunoglobulin and lamina propria mononuclear cells for murine ECAC determinants, our studies suggest these same antigens are present in human colonic epithelium, and are available as potential binding sites for antibody or lymphocytes participating in an autoaggressive immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- J W Paul
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville 22908
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Smith KN, Paul JW, Roche JK. Induction by cells of immune responses to intestinal epithelial cell-associated components (ECAC): transfer with cultured murine mesenteric and popliteal/axillary lymph node cells. Cell Immunol 1988; 113:290-307. [PMID: 2452019 DOI: 10.1016/0008-8749(88)90028-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [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: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Although systemic and mucosal immune responses to intestinal epithelial self-antigens occur in several human disorders, there is no model system with which to study the physiology and regulation of the underlying cellular events. Therefore, we undertook to induce an immune response to purified epithelial macromolecules in the Lewis rat; characterize in vitro the reactive cells; and then transfer with immunocytes this antiepithelial reactivity to naive syngeneic rats, identifying the fine specificity and site of humoral and cell-mediated immunity induced in the cell recipient. Donor animals sensitized systemically (via footpad) or locally in gut mucosa (via Peyer's patches) to syngeneic or xenogeneic epithelial antigens generated specific immunoglobulin and were found to have T lymphocytes in the draining nodal areas (including the mesenteric nodes) which were (a) antigen-specific, having a [3H]thymidine uptake in the presence of antigen 30-fold the control; (b) generally of the Thelper/inducer subclass (W3/25+) which, upon further culture, developed phenotype surface markers for activation (IL-2R+); (c) able to induce an antigen-specific humoral and cell-mediated responses upon intravenous injection into naive syngeneic hosts; and (d) demonstrable in gut-associated lymphoid tissue (mesenteric lymph nodes) and, to a lesser extent in spleen, of the cell recipient. Further, lymphocytes cloned from reactive mesenteric lymph node cells demonstrated specificity for a gel-purified subfraction of epithelial antigen, designated P1, containing highly conserved organ-specific macromolecules thought to be autoantigenic for gut.
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Affiliation(s)
- K N Smith
- Department of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina 27710
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Paul JW. Drug interactions and incompatibilities. Vet Clin North Am Equine Pract 1987; 3:145-51. [PMID: 3555724 DOI: 10.1016/s0749-0739(17)30695-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The clinical significance of drug interactions in animals is often minor, but, in some cases, they may result in a fatal outcome. In the critically ill patient, the temptation to employ relatively large doses, particularly of antimicrobials or corticosteroids, or to use multiple-drug therapy is enhanced. These two factors, combined with a debilitated state of the patient, increase the probability of severe drug interactions that could mean the difference between recovery or death. It would be prudent to consider the possibility of drug interactions when selecting drugs for concomitant use, evaluating adverse reactions, evaluating laboratory test results, or mixing drugs in vitro.
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Dunkel G, Paul JW, Roche JK. Sensitization to epithelial antigens in chronic mucosal inflammatory disease. III. Serum factor modulates circulating and mucosal mononuclear-cell reactivity to epithelial cell-associated components of colon (ECAC-C). J Clin Immunol 1987; 7:159-73. [PMID: 3571435 DOI: 10.1007/bf00916010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
A prior report indicated that sera together with peripheral blood mononuclear cells from patients with Crohn's disease were reactive with epithelial cell-associated components derived from small bowel (ECAC-SB). In the present study, we sought to determine whether similar components (designated ECAC-C) from everted, inflated loops of murine colon could be purified to homogeneity in aqueous soluble form and physiochemically characterized; if sera and/or peripheral mononuclear cells from patients with a chronic idiopathic inflammatory disorder of intestinal mucosa were specifically reactive with ECAC-C; whether immunoglobulin was the factor conferring specificity to the anti-ECAC-C response; and if this immunoglobulin was actively synthesized by human lamina propria B lymphocytes isolated from disease-involved intestinal mucosa. Preparative polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis followed by elution of specific bands resulted in the isolation of three major proteins in homogeneous form. Each was a distinctive macromolecule by molecular weight (39,000, 63,000, 148,000), carbohydrate/protein content, and serologically detectable determinants as assessed by quantitative hemagglutination inhibition. By a 51Cr release microcytotoxicity assay, ECAC-C-labeled indicator cells were specifically lysed by sera and peripheral blood mononuclear cells from patients with ulcerative colitis (8.0 +/- 6.8%) and Crohn's disease (13.2 +/- 4.7%), compared with age-/sex-matched controls (0.6 +/- 0.9 and 0.2 +/- 0.4%, respectively). That the factor conferring ECAC-C specificity was immunoglobulin was demonstrated by the retention of ECAC-C-specific reactivity of patient sera in the presence of normal peripheral blood mononuclear cells, the ability of patient sera (without cells) to effect complement-mediated lysis against erythrocytes labeled with ECAC-C (8.0 +/- 6.7%) but not with control kidney antigen (0.7 +/- 0.7%), and the fact that purified immunoglobulin from patient sera could substitute for the latter in an ECAC-C-specific antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity assay. Unique aspects of this ECAC-C reactivity included its absence from sera in other disorders with a known or presumed autoimmune basis (systemic lupus erythematosus, chronic active hepatitis) and the lack of simultaneous reactivity directed toward control antigens, isolated from kidney in a manner analogous to that used for ECAC-C. The importance of ECAC-C-specific immune responses at the mucosal level was also examined using mononuclear cells isolated from disease and control intestinal lamina propria (LPMC).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)
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Paul JW, Roche JK. Antigen-specific messenger RNA for immunological research: purification and characterization of RNA from intestinal epithelial cells using specific antibody. J Clin Lab Immunol 1987; 22:49-58. [PMID: 3298654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
A murine organ-specific antigen system (ECAC B1,B2) has been described that is reactive with sera and lymphocytes from patients with chronic inflammatory bowel disease. However, the amino acid sequence of macromolecules comprising ECAC is unknown, making difficult synthesis of a genetic (DNA) probe for molecular biologic studies. As an alternative to obtain a specific cDNA clone, we developed a methodology to immuno-purify and characterize ECAC-specific messenger RNA from murine and human gut mucosal epithelium. Advantages of this new approach include that it is rapid, non-radioactive, applicable to heterologous or monoclonal immunoglobulin, and of low cost. 100 X 10(6) intestinal epithelial cells were lysed with 0.35% V/V NP-40, and the supernatant layered on a 65% W/V sucrose solution for isolation of polyribosomes by ultracentrifugation. ECAC B1/B2-specific mRNA was isolated from this polyribosome fraction using protein A column-purified specific immunoglobulin from heterologous hyperimmune serum or from monoclonal ascites, followed by adsorption of antibody-bound polyribosomes on a solid phase composed of Sepharose-protein A. After messenger RNA elution, the poly-adenine-containing fraction was further purified by oligo-dT chromatography and characterized. The yield of highly purified messenger RNA (A260/A280 greater than or equal to 2) was 10-20 micrograms/10(8) epithelial cells, and formaldehyde agarose gel electrophoresis demonstrated a limited number of RNA bands had been isolated (150-1400 base-pairs in size). The function of murine and human (normal and disease-involved) messenger RNA isolates was determined in a cell-free in vitro translation system, demonstrating synthesis of single components of ECAC identified by immunoblotting, enzyme-linked immuno-sorbent assay, and analytical polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of lysate fractions after immuno-affinity chromatography. We conclude that heterologous or monoclonal antibody can be used to isolate antigen-specific messenger RNA from a species other than that from which the antigen was originally isolated, that the functional status for translation of newly purified mRNA can be easily determined by one of several non-radioactive means, and that the technique can be applied even to cells with a high enzymatic degradative capacity, such as those in gut epithelium.
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Nuttall NM, Paul JW. The analysis of inter-dentist agreement in caries prevalence studies. Community Dent Health 1985; 2:123-8. [PMID: 3863685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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Muser RK, Paul JW. Safety of fenbendazole use in cattle. Mod Vet Pract 1984; 65:371-4. [PMID: 6738510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Fenbendazole (Panacur: Hoechst) has a low degree of toxicity, teratogenicity and adverse effects on the reproductive tract, and a high degree of safety in experimental animals. Acute, subacute and long-term toxicity trials in cattle given fenbendazole at dosages of up to 2 g/kg revealed no adverse effects. Studies of teratogenicity, effects on fertility, compatibility with other drugs, and safety for animal handlers had similarly negative results.
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Paul JW, Muser RK. Use of fenbendazole in horses. Mod Vet Pract 1981; 62:557-61. [PMID: 7290065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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Andrews JJ, Paul JW. Chlorhexidine fogging: a safety study in dogs. Vet Med Small Anim Clin 1977; 72:1330-4. [PMID: 242881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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Greve JH, Paul JW. Evaluation of an enteric-coated microencapsulated formulation of trichlorfon in horses. Vet Med Small Anim Clin 1976; 71:1737-42. [PMID: 1051775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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Malone WF, Paul JW. Completed amalgam restorations. Ill Dent J 1968; 37:296-300. [PMID: 5240993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
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Paul JW. Spontaneous Bilateral Pneumothorax Occurring in a Premature Baby During the Neo-Natal Period. Proc R Soc Med 1947; 40:165-166. [PMID: 19993495 PMCID: PMC2182632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
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