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Marcial Lopez A, Ratner LD, Martinez CS, Di Giorgio N, Poutanen M, Huhtaniemi IT, Rulli SB. Persistently expressed human chorionic gonadotropin induces premature luteinization and progressive alterations on the reproductive axis in female mice. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2023; 336:114247. [PMID: 36858273 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2023.114247] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
The hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis plays a fundamental role in the endocrine regulation of the reproductive function in mammals. Any change in the function of the participating hormones or their receptors can lead to alterations in sexual differentiation, the onset of puberty, infertility, cancer development, and other dysfunctions. In this study, we analyzed the influence of persistently elevated levels of the human chorionic gonadotropin hormone (hCG), a powerful agonist of pituitary luteinizing hormone (LH), on the reproductive axis of female mice. As a consequence of chronic hCG hypersecretion through a global expression of the hCGbeta-subunit in transgenic (TG) female mice, a series of events perturbed the prepubertal to juvenile transition. The imbalance in gonadotropin action was first manifested by precocious puberty and alterations in gonadal hormone production, with the consequent ovarian function disruption and infertility in adulthood. The expansion of cumulus cells in vivo and in vitro, ovulatory capacity, and gene expression of ovulation-related marker genes after hormone stimulation were normal in 3-week-old TG females. However, the expression of genes related to steroidogenesis and luteinization such as Lhcgr, Prlr, and the steroidogenic enzymes Cyp11a1, Cyp17a1, and Cyp19a1 were significantly elevated in the TG females. This study demonstrates that the excessive secretion of hCG in concert with high prolactin, induced premature luteinization, and enhanced ovarian steroidogenesis, as was shown by the up-regulation of luteal cell markers and progesterone synthesis in the TG mice. Furthermore, progressively impaired reproductive function of the TG females occurred from the peripubertal stage to adulthood, thus culminating in infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agustina Marcial Lopez
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental-CONICET, Vuelta de Obligado 2490 (1428), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Laura D Ratner
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental-CONICET, Vuelta de Obligado 2490 (1428), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carolina S Martinez
- Laboratorio de Bio-nanotecnología, Departamento de Ciencia y Tecnología, Universidad Nacional de Quilmes, Grupo vinculado GBEyB, IMBICE-CONICET-CICPBA, Bernal, Argentina
| | - Noelia Di Giorgio
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental-CONICET, Vuelta de Obligado 2490 (1428), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Matti Poutanen
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 10, 20520 Turku, Finland; Turku Center for Disease Modeling, University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 10, 20520 Turku, Finland
| | - Ilpo T Huhtaniemi
- Institute of Biomedicine, Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Turku, Kiinamyllynkatu 10, 20520 Turku, Finland; Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London W12 0NN, UK
| | - Susana B Rulli
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental-CONICET, Vuelta de Obligado 2490 (1428), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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Matsukawa H, Ikezaki M, Nishioka K, Iwahashi N, Fujimoto M, Nishitsuji K, Ihara Y, Ino K. Calnexin Is Involved in Forskolin-induced Syncytialization in Cytotrophoblast Model BeWo Cells. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12081050. [PMID: 36008943 PMCID: PMC9405722 DOI: 10.3390/biom12081050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Calnexin (CNX), a membrane-bound molecular chaperone, is involved in protein folding and quality control of nascent glycoproteins in the endoplasmic reticulum. We previously suggested critical roles of calreticulin, a functional paralogue of CNX, in placentation, including invasion of extravillous trophoblasts and syncytialization of cytotrophoblasts. However, the roles of CNX in placentation are unclear. In human choriocarcinoma BeWo cells, which serve as an experimental model of syncytialization, CNX knockdown suppressed forskolin-induced cell fusion and β-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) induction. Cell-surface luteinizing hormone/chorionic gonadotropin receptor, a β-hCG receptor, was significantly down-regulated in CNX-knockdown cells, which suggested the presence of a dysfunctional autocrine loop of β-hCG up-regulation. In this study, we also found abundant CNX expression in normal human placentas. Collectively, our results revealed the critical role of CNX in the syncytialization-related signaling in a villous trophoblast model and suggest a link between CNX expression and placenta development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hitomi Matsukawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama 641-8509, Japan; (H.M.); (K.N.); (N.I.); (K.I.)
| | - Midori Ikezaki
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama 641-8509, Japan; (M.I.); (K.N.)
| | - Kaho Nishioka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama 641-8509, Japan; (H.M.); (K.N.); (N.I.); (K.I.)
| | - Naoyuki Iwahashi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama 641-8509, Japan; (H.M.); (K.N.); (N.I.); (K.I.)
| | - Masakazu Fujimoto
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan;
| | - Kazuchika Nishitsuji
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama 641-8509, Japan; (M.I.); (K.N.)
| | - Yoshito Ihara
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama 641-8509, Japan; (M.I.); (K.N.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-73-441-0628
| | - Kazuhiko Ino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama 641-8509, Japan; (H.M.); (K.N.); (N.I.); (K.I.)
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Zhou H, Pan Y, Yang W, Zhao C, Sun X, Hong B, Jin X, Zhang T, Zhang Y, Liu N, Zhang S, Zhu H. S100P promotes trophoblast syncytialization during early placenta development by regulating YAP1. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:860261. [PMID: 36187124 PMCID: PMC9515983 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.860261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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: 01/22/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) is a severe complication of pregnancy that is caused by genetic abnormalities, immune dysfunction, aberrant cell biology, and tissue structure destruction. Among which, placental dysfunction is crucial in the pathogenetic progression of RPL. Although some regulatory factors associated with RPL have been reported, the placental changes correlated with RPL still need to be elucidated. Here, we found that a portion of RPL patients presented with low serum and placental S100P expression. Using a human trophoblast stem cell model, we demonstrated that S100P was exclusively expressed in syncytiotrophoblast (ST)-like syncytia (ST(2D)-TSCT) and that loss of S100P expression in ST(2D)-TSCT cells impaired β-hCG secretion, leading to syncytialization failure during early placental development. Moreover, we found that S100P is involved in regulating trophoblast syncytialization by downregulating the protein level of Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1), which plays a pivotal role in maintaining trophoblast stemness. Together, our findings suggest that S100P plays an essential role in regulating trophoblast syncytialization during early placental development in humans via YAP1. Additionally, lower serum S100P levels may predict poor pregnancy outcomes and represent a potentially useful marker for evaluating placental biological function during early pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanjing Zhou
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yibin Pan
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Weijie Yang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Chenqiong Zhao
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaohe Sun
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Binbin Hong
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoying Jin
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Tai Zhang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yinli Zhang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Na Liu
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Songying Zhang
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Haiyan Zhu, ; Songying Zhang,
| | - Haiyan Zhu
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Haiyan Zhu, ; Songying Zhang,
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Huang H, Wang J, Li K, Ma H. Successful conservative treatment of placenta accreta with traditional Chinese medicine: A case report. Medicine (Baltimore) 2021; 100:e24820. [PMID: 33607847 PMCID: PMC7899819 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000024820] [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] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Currently, placenta accreta treatment mainly includes nonconservative surgical and conservative treatments such as Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). This report describes the case of a 37-year-old woman who suffered incomplete placenta accreta after vaginal delivery and was cured by TCM. TCM treatment of placenta accreta has its own unique advantages, including low toxicity and few side effects, unaffected breastfeeding, and retention of the uterus, which can ensure the expulsion of residual placenta and be beneficial to patients' physical and mental health. PATIENT CONCERNS Symptoms included a small amount of vaginal bleeding and occasional lesser abdominal pain. The patient showed lesser abdominal tenderness, a red tongue moss with petechial hemorrhage, and a hesitant pulse. The reproductive history was G3P2L2A1. In addition, the patient was afraid of having her uterus removed due to incomplete placental separation. DIAGNOSES The case was diagnosed as placental accreta. Ultrasound is the preferred method of diagnosis, and biomarkers, such as beta hCG, assist in screening for placental accreta. Doppler ultrasonography showed that in the bottom of the right uterine cavity, there was an uneven echo group of 7.6 × 4.6 cm, which was not clearly demarcated from the posterior wall; the muscle layer became thinner, with a thinnest part of 0.19 cm, and abundant blood flow signals were observed (Fig. 1JOURNAL/medi/04.03/00005792-202102190-00086/figure1/v/2021-02-16T234818Z/r/image-tiff). The beta hCG was 580.92 mIu/ml. INTERVENTIONS The patient initially underwent curettage therapy 9 days after delivery, but it failed due to excessive intraoperative bleeding. The patient then turned to TCM treatment. The doctor prescribed a multi-herbal formula. OUTCOMES After 4 months, the residual placenta was expelled, and the patient's symptoms disappeared completely. No adverse and unexpected events occurred during treatment. During 3 months of follow-up, the patient had no abdominal pain, abnormal vaginal bleeding, or other complications. LESSONS This study shows that TCM is safe and effective for treating placenta accreta, and it is worth recommending TCM as a conservative treatment along with other treatments. In practice, however, we find that the earlier TCM treatment is applied, the better the effect; therefore, early intervention with TCM is particularly important.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huamin Huang
- First College of Clinical Medicine, Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan, Shandong
| | - Jialin Wang
- The Affiliated Hospital of Shandong Academy of Chinese Medicine
| | - Keqin Li
- Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jingwuweiqi Road, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Hongbo Ma
- Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong University, Jingwuweiqi Road, Jinan, Shandong, China
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Białas P, Śliwa A, Szczerba A, Jankowska A. The Study of the Expression of CGB1 and CGB2 in Human Cancer Tissues. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:genes11091082. [PMID: 32957442 PMCID: PMC7565995 DOI: 10.3390/genes11091082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a well-known hormone produced by the trophoblast during pregnancy as well as by both trophoblastic and non-trophoblastic tumors. hCG is built from two subunits: α (hCGα) and β (hCGβ). The hormone-specific β subunit is encoded by six allelic genes: CGB3, CGB5, CGB6, CGB7, CGB8, and CGB9, mapped to the 19q13.32 locus. This gene cluster also encompasses the CGB1 and CGB2 genes, which were originally considered to be pseudogenes, but as documented by several studies are transcriptionally active. Even though the protein products of these genes have not yet been identified, based on The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database analysis we showed that the mutual presence of CGB1 and CGB2 transcripts is a characteristic feature of cancers of different origin, including bladder urothelial carcinoma, cervical squamous cell carcinoma, esophageal carcinoma, head and neck squamous cell carcinoma, ovarian serous cystadenocarcinoma, lung squamous cell carcinoma, pancreatic adenocarcinoma, rectum adenocacinoma, testis germ cell tumors, thymoma, uterine corpus endometrial carcinoma and uterine carcinosarcoma.
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Tosun G, Kose S, İşbilen Başok B, Altunyurt S. First-trimester placental function in levothyroxine-using pregnant women: a case-control study. Gynecol Endocrinol 2020; 36:233-237. [PMID: 31888411 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2019.1708317] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
We aimed to compare the pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) and the uterine artery pulsatility index (UtA PI) levels of euthyroid pregnant women using levothyroxine vs. a control group of uncomplicated pregnancies and to evaluate the effects of different levothyroxine dosages on pregnancy outcomes. We retrospectively evaluated 206 levothyroxine-using pregnant women by looking at their basic placental function markers and obstetric outcomes. A sample of 449 women whose pregnancies concluded with uncomplicated term deliveries composed of our control group. To examine the relationship between the levothyroxine dosages and the frequency of pregnancy complications, levothyroxine users were divided into different groups according to the 75, 100, and 150 mcg cutoffs. The median PAPP-A MoM levels of levothyroxine users were significantly lower at 0.94 vs. 1.11 (p < .001) and the median mean UtA PI was significantly higher than the control group at 2.08 vs. 1.74 (p < .0001). The median birth weight was significantly lower for the levothyroxine users' group at 3292 g vs. 3427 g (p < .0001). Using 75, 100, and 150 mcg dose cutoffs, PAPP-A MoM, mean UtA PI and obstetric complication frequencies were not significantly different among levothyroxine users. Significant changes in placental function markers have been observed in euthyroid levothyroxine-using pregnant women during the first trimester. However, the frequency of obstetric complications does not appear to be dose dependent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gökhan Tosun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Buca Maternity and Children's Hospital, Izmir, Turkey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tepecik Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Semir Kose
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Perinatology, Buca Maternity and Children's Hospital, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Banu İşbilen Başok
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tepecik Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Sabahattin Altunyurt
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Perinatology, Dokuz Eylül University, Izmir, Turkey
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Ibeto L, Antonopoulos A, Grassi P, Pang PC, Panico M, Bobdiwala S, Al-Memar M, Davis P, Davis M, Norman Taylor J, Almeida P, Johnson MR, Harvey R, Bourne T, Seckl M, Clark G, Haslam SM, Dell A. Insights into the hyperglycosylation of human chorionic gonadotropin revealed by glycomics analysis. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0228507. [PMID: 32045434 PMCID: PMC7012436 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0228507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a glycoprotein hormone that is essential for the maintenance of pregnancy. Glycosylation of hCG is known to be essential for its biological activity. "Hyperglycosylated" variants secreted during early pregnancy have been proposed to be involved in initial implantation of the embryo and as a potential diagnostic marker for gestational diseases. However, what constitutes "hyperglycosylation" is not yet fully understood. In this study, we perform comparative N-glycomic analysis of hCG expressed in the same individuals during early and late pregnancy to help provide new insights into hCG function, reveal new targets for diagnostics and clarify the identity of hyperglycosylated hCG. hCG was isolated in urine collected from women at 7 weeks and 20 weeks' gestation. hCG was also isolated in urine from women diagnosed with gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD). We used glycomics methodologies including matrix assisted laser desorption/ionisation-time of flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometry (MS) and MS/MS methods to characterise the N-glycans associated with hCG purified from the individual samples. The structures identified on the early pregnancy (EP-hCG) and late pregnancy (LP-hCG) samples corresponded to mono-, bi-, tri-, and tetra-antennary N-glycans. A novel finding was the presence of substantial amounts of bisected type N-glycans in pregnancy hCG samples, which were present at much lower levels in GTD samples. A second novel observation was the presence of abundant LewisX antigens on the bisected N-glycans. GTD-hCG had fewer glycoforms which constituted a subset of those found in normal pregnancy. When compared to EP-hCG, GTD-hCG samples had decreased signals for tri- and tetra-antennary N-glycans. In terms of terminal epitopes, GTD-hCG had increased signals for sialylated structures, while LewisX antigens were of very minor abundance. hCG carries the same N-glycans throughout pregnancy but in different proportions. The N-glycan repertoire is more diverse than previously reported. Bisected and LewisX structures are potential targets for diagnostics. hCG isolated from pregnancy urine inhibits NK cell cytotoxicity in vitro at nanomolar levels and bisected type glycans have previously been implicated in the suppression of NK cell cytotoxicity, suggesting that hCG-related bisected type N-glycans may directly suppress NK cell cytotoxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Ibeto
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- Academic Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Paola Grassi
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Poh-Choo Pang
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Maria Panico
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Shabnam Bobdiwala
- Tommys' National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Queen Charlottes' & Chelsea Hospital, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
| | - Maya Al-Memar
- Tommys' National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Queen Charlottes' & Chelsea Hospital, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
| | - Paul Davis
- Mologic LTD, Bedford Technology Park, Bedfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Davis
- Mologic LTD, Bedford Technology Park, Bedfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Julian Norman Taylor
- Academic Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Paula Almeida
- Academic Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mark R. Johnson
- Academic Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Richard Harvey
- Division of Cancer, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tom Bourne
- Tommys' National Centre for Miscarriage Research, Queen Charlottes' & Chelsea Hospital, Imperial College, London, United Kingdom
| | - Michael Seckl
- Division of Cancer, Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gary Clark
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri, United States of America
| | - Stuart M. Haslam
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Anne Dell
- Department of Life Sciences, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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Forstner D, Maninger S, Nonn O, Guettler J, Moser G, Leitinger G, Pritz E, Strunk D, Schallmoser K, Marsche G, Heinemann A, Huppertz B, Gauster M. Platelet-derived factors impair placental chorionic gonadotropin beta-subunit synthesis. J Mol Med (Berl) 2019; 98:193-207. [PMID: 31863152 PMCID: PMC7007904 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-019-01866-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Revised: 11/08/2019] [Accepted: 12/06/2019] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Abstract During histiotrophic nutrition of the embryo, maternal platelets may be the first circulating maternal cells that find their way into the placental intervillous space through narrow intertrophoblastic gaps within the plugs of spiral arteries. Activation of platelets at the maternal-fetal interface can influence trophoblast behavior and has been implicated in serious pregnancy pathologies. Here, we show that platelet-derived factors impaired expression and secretion of the human chorionic gonadotropin beta-subunit (βhCG) in human first trimester placental explants and the trophoblast cell line BeWo. Impaired βhCG synthesis was not the consequence of hampered morphological differentiation, as assessed by analysis of differentiation-associated genes and electron microscopy. Platelet-derived factors did not affect intracellular cAMP levels and phosphorylation of CREB, but activated Smad3 and its downstream-target plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI)-1 in forskolin-induced BeWo cell differentiation. While TGF-β type I receptor inhibitor SB431542 did not restore impaired βhCG production in response to platelet-derived factors, Smad3 inhibitor SIS3 interfered with CREB activation, suggesting an interaction of cAMP/CREB and Smad3 signaling. Sequestration of transcription co-activators CBP/p300, known to bind both CREB and Smad3, may limit βhCG production, since CBP/p300 inhibitor C646 significantly restricted its forskolin-induced upregulation. In conclusion, our study suggests that degranulation of maternal platelets at the early maternal-fetal interface can impair placental βhCG production, without substantially affecting morphological and biochemical differentiation of villous trophoblasts. Key messages Maternal platelets can be detected on the surface of the placental villi and in intercellular gaps of trophoblast cell columns from gestational week 5 onwards. Platelet-derived factors impair hCG synthesis in human first trimester placenta. Platelet-derived factors activate Smad3 in trophoblasts. Smad3 inhibitor SIS3 interferes with forskolin-induced CREB signaling. Sequestration of CBP/p300 by activated Smad3 may limit placental hCG production.
Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1007/s00109-019-01866-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Désirée Forstner
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6, II, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Sabine Maninger
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6, II, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Olivia Nonn
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6, II, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Jacqueline Guettler
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6, II, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Gerit Moser
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6, II, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Gerd Leitinger
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6, II, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Elisabeth Pritz
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6, II, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Dirk Strunk
- Cell Therapy Institute, Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg (SCI-TReCS), Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Katharina Schallmoser
- Department of Transfusion Medicine and Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Center Salzburg (SCI-TReCS), Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Gunther Marsche
- Division of Pharmacology, Otto Loewi Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Akos Heinemann
- Division of Pharmacology, Otto Loewi Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Berthold Huppertz
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6, II, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Martin Gauster
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6, II, 8010, Graz, Austria.
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9
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Vasudevan A, Iyyappan P, Kaliyappa C, Balaji Singh K. Clinico-pathological presentation of breast carcinoma and its correlation with β hCG. J Exp Ther Oncol 2019; 13:139-146. [PMID: 31881130] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2018] [Accepted: 01/23/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The pathophysiological role of HCG is currently speculative and seems to be paradoxes as certain studies advice it has anti-cancer properties while few others found it to be pro-cancer agent. In this study we have evaluated the status of beta hCG receptors in patients with breast carcinoma and its association with various clinic-pathological factors. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted on total of 57 patients who were enrolled in the study, all tests including metastatic work up were done. Patients underwent modified radical mastectomy on the affected side after being declared fit by the anaesthetist. Immunohistochemical analysis was done using ER antibody, PR88, CB11 and for beta hCG was done using ab-53087. RESULTS The average age at diagnosis was 55.77 years. There was a significant correlation between age at diagnosis and age at first child birth. On correlating size of the tumour with Beta hCG receptor status, Patients with tumour size 2 to 5 cms have shown maximum positivity for beta hCG receptors. On correlating stage of the disease with Beta HCG receptor status, it was found that, carcinoma tissues showed more receptor positivity as the stage increased. In histological staining grade, Nottingham's scoring system was used which showed majority of patients belonged to grade 2. DISCUSSION Comparison of other tumour characteristics such as histopathological type, grade, tumour size and nodal status were similar among the studies done in Western and Indian regions. The similarities of the current as well as the above mentioned Indian studies with Western countries could be attributed to increasing awareness and better screening protocols for breast carcinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anjana Vasudevan
- Department of General Surgery, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, formerly Sri Ramachandra University, Porur, Chennai-600116, India
| | - Ponniah Iyyappan
- Department of General Surgery, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, formerly Sri Ramachandra University, Porur, Chennai-600116, India
| | - C Kaliyappa
- Department of General Surgery, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, formerly Sri Ramachandra University, Porur, Chennai-600116, India
| | - K Balaji Singh
- Department of General Surgery, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, formerly Sri Ramachandra University, Porur, Chennai-600116, India
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10
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Abstract
Tubal pregnancy represents an entity that every gynecologist will encounter during professional life. Because of the high prevalence among the pregnant population, standardized protocols are needed in order to choose the optimal strategy for each case. Accurate ultrasound pictures are supporting a more precise diagnosis of ectopic tubal pregnancy, the evolution of which should be closely monitored in follow-up with serial β-hCG values. Laparoscopy, intramuscular methotrexate, and active expectant management are all involved, however, tailoring the best treatment to the patient's needs is the challenge to focus on. This manuscript describes how in routinary practice an evidence-based diagnostic process should be the key factor to go for the best possible management. When possible, a longsighted less invasive approach should be preferred, aiming to preserve the patient's fertility for years to come. An optimal choice of the management should involve the patient or the couple in the decision-making process to reach the ultimate goal of compliance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Sabbioni
- Local Health Authority of Reggio Emilia, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cesare Magati Hospital, Scandiano, Italy
| | - Emanuela Carossino
- Local Health Authority of Reggio Emilia, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cesare Magati Hospital, Scandiano, Italy
| | - Filiberto Maria Severi
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Stefano Luisi
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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11
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Camilletti MA, Abeledo-Machado A, Perez PA, Faraoni EY, De Fino F, Rulli SB, Ferraris J, Pisera D, Gutierrez S, Thomas P, Díaz-Torga G. mPRs represent a novel target for PRL inhibition in experimental prolactinomas. Endocr Relat Cancer 2019; 26:497-510. [PMID: 30856609 DOI: 10.1530/erc-18-0409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [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: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Membrane progesterone receptors are known to mediate rapid nongenomic progesterone effects in different cell types. Recent evidence revealed that mPRα is highly expressed in the rat pituitary, being primarily localized in lactotrophs, acting as an intermediary of P4-inhibitory actions on prolactin secretion. The role of mPRs in prolactinoma development remains unclear. We hypothesize that mPR agonists represent a novel tool for hyperprolactinemia treatment. To this end, pituitary expression of mPRs was studied in three animal models of prolactinoma. Expression of mPRs and nuclear receptor was significantly decreased in tumoral pituitaries compared to normal ones. However, the relative proportion of mPRα and mPRβ was highly increased in prolactinomas. Interestingly, the selective mPR agonist (Org OD 02-0) significantly inhibited PRL release in both normal and tumoral pituitary explants, displaying a more pronounced effect in tumoral tissues. As P4 also regulates PRL secretion indirectly, by acting on dopaminergic neurons, we studied mPR involvement in this effect. We found that the hypothalamus has a high expression of mPRs. Interestingly, both P4 and OrgOD 02-0 increased dopamine release in hypothalamus explants. Moreover, in an in vivo treatment, that allows both, pituitary and hypothalamus actions, the mPR agonist strongly reduced the hyperprolactinemia in transgenic females carrying prolactinoma. Finally, we also found and interesting gender difference: males express higher levels of pituitary mPRα/β, a sex that does not develop prolactinoma in these mice models. Taken together, these findings suggest mPRs activation could represent a novel tool for hyperprolactinemic patients, especially those that present resistance to dopaminergic drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Pablo A Perez
- Centro de Microscopia Electrónica, Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Salud (INICSA-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Erika Y Faraoni
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Fernanda De Fino
- Instituto de Investigaciones Farmacológicas, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Susana B Rulli
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Jimena Ferraris
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Facultad de Medicina, UBA-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Daniel Pisera
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas (INBIOMED), Facultad de Medicina, UBA-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Silvina Gutierrez
- Centro de Microscopia Electrónica, Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias de la Salud (INICSA-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Peter Thomas
- Marine Science Institute, University of Texas at Austin, Port Aransas, Texas, USA
| | - Graciela Díaz-Torga
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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12
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Iwahashi N, Ikezaki M, Matsuzaki I, Yamamoto M, Toujima S, Murata SI, Ihara Y, Ino K. Calreticulin Regulates Syncytialization Through Control of the Synthesis and Transportation of E-Cadherin in BeWo Cells. Endocrinology 2019; 160:359-374. [PMID: 30551188 DOI: 10.1210/en.2018-00868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [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] [Received: 10/03/2018] [Accepted: 12/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
During placental development, mononuclear cytotrophoblasts differentiate and fuse to syncytiotrophoblasts (STBs) to form syncytia, which secrete human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Decreased maternal perfusion of the placenta, which leads to placental dysfunction, induces changes in trophoblast syncytialization. Our previous study showed that calreticulin (CRT), a Ca2+-binding molecular chaperone found in the endoplasmic reticulum, is expressed in the human placenta and is involved in regulating extravillous trophoblast invasion, although its role in villous trophoblasts remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the functional role of CRT in trophoblast differentiation using the human trophoblast-like cell line BeWo, in which CRT gene expression was knocked down. We found that CRT was highly expressed in human third-trimester placentas and mainly localized in STBs. The fetal growth restriction group exhibited significantly lower CRT expression levels than did the control group. In BeWo cells, CRT knockdown markedly suppressed forskolin-induced cell fusion and β-hCG secretion. As for the mechanism responsible for these effects, the cell surface expression of E-cadherin, a key adhesion molecule related to syncytialization, was decreased, and E-cadherin accumulated adjacent to the Golgi apparatus in the CRT-knockdown cells, which led to dysfunctional cell-to-cell adhesion. Additionally, metabolic labeling and a pulse-chase study revealed that the protein expression of E-cadherin was suppressed at the translational level in the CRT-knockdown cells. Collectively, these results demonstrate that CRT regulates syncytialization by ensuring appropriate control of both the synthesis and transportation of E-cadherin, suggesting that CRT expression is important for placental development during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naoyuki Iwahashi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Midori Ikezaki
- Department of Biochemistry, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Ibu Matsuzaki
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Madoka Yamamoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Saori Toujima
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Shin-Ichi Murata
- Department of Diagnostic Pathology, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Yoshito Ihara
- Department of Biochemistry, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan
| | - Kazuhiko Ino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama, Japan
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13
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Lozano C C, Molina P M. [Beta-hCG-producing thymic teratoma: an uncommon cause of peripheral precocious puberty]. Rev Chil Pediatr 2018; 89:373-379. [PMID: 29999144 DOI: 10.4067/s0370-41062018005000304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2017] [Accepted: 02/15/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Among the causes of peripheral precocious puberty in men are the beta-human cho rionic gonadotropin (Β-HCG)-secreting tumors, such as hepatoblastomas, dysgerminomas, chorio carcinomas, and immature teratomas. In pediatrics, the mediastinal teratomas are rare, representing the 7-10% of extragonadal teratomas. OBJECTIVE To describe the case of a patient with peripheral precocious puberty due to a Β-HCG -secreting thymic teratoma. CLINICAL CASE A seven-years-old schoolboy presents a three-months history of voice changes, gynecomastia, pubic hair appearance, and increased genital volume. In the exams, bone age of nine years, total testosterone 9.33ng/ml (< 0.4ng/ml), dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP), and normal adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) test stand out; luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) with low basal levels, Β-HCG 39.5mU/ml (< 2.5 mUI/ml), alpha feto protein (α-FP) 11,2ng/ml (0.6-2.0 ng/ml). Imaging study to determine the origin of Β-HCG secretion shows normal testicular ultrasound and thoracic, abdominal, and pelvic computerized axial tomo graphy (CAT); brain and sellar resonance without significant findings. The positron emission tomography/computed scan (PET SCAN) shows a tumor image in the anterosuperior mediastinum. The tumor is resected, and the biopsy shows an immature cystic teratoma in the thymus. Post-operatory evolution was satisfactory, with normalization of hormonal levels. CONCLUSION The appearance of a teratoma in a pediatric patient is rare, even more if it is immature, with thymic location and P-HCG- secretor. It is important to consider it within the differential diagnosis facing precocious puberty, as a better way to handle appropriately.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marcela Molina P
- Servicio de Pediatría, Hospital Dr. Hernán Henríquez Aravena, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
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14
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Ruibal A, Nuñez MI, Rodríguez J, Jiménez L, del Rio MC, Zapatero J. Cytosolic Levels of Neuron-Specific Enolase in Squamous Cell Carcinomas of the Lung. Int J Biol Markers 2018; 18:188-94. [PMID: 14535589 DOI: 10.1177/172460080301800306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [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: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
To study the behavior and possible correlations of neuron-specific enolase (NSE) with other clinicobiological parameters, we measured the cytosolic levels of this marker by means of an immunoradiometric assay (IRMA) in 95 squamous cell lung carcinoma samples. We also analyzed the levels of pS2, tissue-type plasminogen activator (t-PA), hyaluronic acid (HA), free beta subunit of human chorionic gonadotropin (β-HCG), CYFRA 21.1 and CA 125 in cytosol. On the cell surface we analyzed the concentrations of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), HA, erbB-2 oncoprotein, CD44s, CD44v5 and CD44v6. Other parameters considered were clinical stage, lymph node involvement, histological grade (HG), ploidy and the cellular S-phase fraction measured by flow cytometry on nuclei obtained from fresh tissues. In the 95 squamous cell carcinomas the cytosolic levels of NSE varied from 4.5 to 2235 ng/mg protein (median: 267) and were significantly higher (p<0.001) than those observed in 38 samples of normal pulmonary tissue obtained from the same patients (range: 56–657; median: 141.5). When classifying tumors according to the different parameters analyzed, we observed that the levels of NSE were higher in aneuploid than in diploid cases (p=0.046) and in those that were HG3 than in those that were HG2 (p<0.001). Tumors with high NSE levels (>422 ng/mg protein; 75th percentile) were more likely to have high S-phase values (p=0.012) and were more frequently aneuploid (p=0.038) and HG3 (p<0.001) than those with low levels of NSE (<180 ng/mg protein; 25th percentile). These results lead us to the following conclusions: 1) the cytosolic concentrations of NSE are significantly higher in squamous cell carcinomas than in healthy pulmonary tissue, and 2) the cytosolic concentrations of NSE are not correlated with clinical stage or nodal involvement. However, in our study higher levels of the enzyme were statistically correlated with aneuploidy, histological grade 3 and S-phase. This may explain its association with poorer outcome and progression, but also the more favorable response of tumors with elevated NSE to chemotherapy, as suggested by other groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Ruibal
- Nuclear Medicine Service, University Hospital, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario, Santiago de Compostela, Spain.
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15
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Li P, Shi Y, Shuai H, Cai Y, Lu W, Wang G, Gao L, Wang L, Fan X, Yang X. Alterted SLIT2/ROBO1 signalling is linked to impaired placentation of missed and threatened miscarriage in early pregnancy. Histopathology 2017; 71:543-552. [PMID: 28485101 DOI: 10.1111/his.13250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [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: 02/24/2017] [Accepted: 05/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Two-thirds of early pregnancy failures present with reduced trophoblast invasion, and SLIT2/ROBO1 signalling is considered to play an important role in trophoblast function during pregnancy. We investigated SLIT2/ROBO1 signalling associated with missed and threatened miscarriage during early gestation. METHODS AND RESULTS Human placenta samples were collected from women with missed miscarriage (n = 25), threatened miscarriage (n = 22) and termination of pregnancy controls (n = 32). Corresponding decreases in beta human chorionic gonadotrophin (β-hCG) levels and shallow trophoblast invasion were observed in patients with missed and threatened miscarriage, immunohistological staining revealed abnormal Slit2 and Robo1, as well as E-cadherin and activating protein-2 alpha (AP-2α) expression in villi and extravillous trophoblasts, and the expression of these proteins were confirmed in villi and decidua of miscarriage material by Western blotting. Using HTR8/SVneo cells, blocking SLIT2/ROBO1 signalling promoted cell migration, proliferation and suppressed differentiation. Moreover, blocking SLIT2/ROBO1 signalling in HTR8/SVneo cells altered trophoblast differentiation-related and angiogenesis-related gene mRNA expression, which also occurred in the tissues of missed and threatened miscarriage. CONCLUSIONS SLIT2/ROBO1 signalling may regulate trophoblast differentiation and invasion causing restricting β-hCG production, shallow trophoblast invasion and inhibiting placental angiogenesis in missed and threatened miscarriage during the first trimester.
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MESH Headings
- Abortion, Spontaneous/etiology
- Abortion, Spontaneous/metabolism
- Abortion, Spontaneous/pathology
- Abortion, Threatened/etiology
- Abortion, Threatened/metabolism
- Abortion, Threatened/pathology
- Adult
- Antigens, CD
- Cadherins/genetics
- Cadherins/metabolism
- Cell Movement
- Chorionic Gonadotropin, beta Subunit, Human/metabolism
- Female
- Humans
- Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins/genetics
- Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins/metabolism
- Nerve Tissue Proteins/genetics
- Nerve Tissue Proteins/metabolism
- Placenta/metabolism
- Placenta/pathology
- Placentation
- Pregnancy
- Pregnancy Trimester, First
- Receptors, Immunologic/genetics
- Receptors, Immunologic/metabolism
- Signal Transduction
- Trophoblasts/metabolism
- Trophoblasts/pathology
- Young Adult
- Roundabout Proteins
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Affiliation(s)
- Ping Li
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine of The Ministry of Education, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
- Department of Nursing Science, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yuxun Shi
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine of The Ministry of Education, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Hanlin Shuai
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yanzhen Cai
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Wenhui Lu
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine of The Ministry of Education, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Guang Wang
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine of The Ministry of Education, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lufen Gao
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Lijing Wang
- Institute of Vascular Biological Science, Guangdong Pharmaceutical University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xiujun Fan
- Shenzhen Insititutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Xuesong Yang
- Key Laboratory for Regenerative Medicine of The Ministry of Education, Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Medicine, Jinan University, Guangzhou, China
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16
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Schüler-Toprak S, Treeck O, Ortmann O. Human Chorionic Gonadotropin and Breast Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18071587. [PMID: 28754015 PMCID: PMC5536074 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18071587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2017] [Revised: 07/17/2017] [Accepted: 07/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is well known as a malignancy being strongly influenced by female steroids. Pregnancy is a protective factor against breast cancer. Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) is a candidate hormone which could mediate this antitumoral effect of pregnancy. For this review article, all original research articles on the role of HCG in breast cancer were considered, which are listed in PubMed database and were written in English. The role of HCG in breast cancer seems to be a paradox. Placental heterodimeric HCG acts as a protective agent by imprinting a permanent genomic signature of the mammary gland determining a refractory condition to malignant transformation which is characterized by cellular differentiation, apoptosis and growth inhibition. On the other hand, ectopic expression of β-HCG in various cancer entities is associated with poor prognosis due to its tumor-promoting function. Placental HCG and ectopically expressed β-HCG exert opposite effects on breast tumorigenesis. Therefore, mimicking pregnancy by treatment with HCG is suggested as a strategy for breast cancer prevention, whereas targeting β-HCG expressing tumor cells seems to be an option for breast cancer therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Schüler-Toprak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Regensburg, Caritas-Hospital St. Josef, 93053 Regensburg, Germany.
| | - Oliver Treeck
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Regensburg, Caritas-Hospital St. Josef, 93053 Regensburg, Germany.
| | - Olaf Ortmann
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Regensburg, Caritas-Hospital St. Josef, 93053 Regensburg, Germany.
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17
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Türkmen GG, Timur H, Yilmaz Z, Kirbas A, Daglar K, Tokmak A, Uygur D, Danişman N. Effect of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy on maternal serum screening tests. J Neonatal Perinatal Med 2017; 9:411-415. [PMID: 28009332 DOI: 10.3233/npm-161618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In this study, we aimed to evaluate whether the changes in the first and second trimester maternal serum biochemical markers used for prenatal screening are associated with euploid pregnancies complicated by intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP). METHODS A total of 94 pregnant women were included in this retrospective comparative study. Thirty-seven women whose pregnancy was complicated with ICP constituted the study group whereas 57 of them constituted the control group. All hospital records were examined in terms of combined first trimester screening test and second trimester triple test parameters. Perinatal outcomes were also recorded. RESULTS No significant difference was observed between the two groups in term of age, BMI, and obstetric history (all p > 0.05). Mean serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and serum bile acid concentrations in the study group were significantly higher than in the controls (p < 0.001). There were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of first and second trimester serum biochemical markers. Newborn gender, route of birth, and NICU admission rates were also similar in the two groups. Mean birth weight of the control group was statistically significantly higher than the ICP group (p = 0.012). CONCLUSION We report no significant differences between pregnancies complicated by ICP and healthy pregnancies in terms of first and second trimester maternal serum screening test results.
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Wang B, Liu W, Shao Z, Zeng X. Retroperitoneal metastatic poorly differentiated carcinoma with β-human chorionic gonadotropin secretion presenting as a psoas abscess: A case report and review of the literature. Medicine (Baltimore) 2017; 96:e6837. [PMID: 28489769 PMCID: PMC5428603 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000006837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
RATIONALE Psoas abscesses generally arise from a contiguous intra-abdominal or pelvic infectious process or hematogenous spreading of bacteria. The serum β-human chorionic gonadotropin has been used to detect normal or ectopic pregnancy. It also can be utilized in following up carcinomas. PATIENT CONCERNS Here, we reported a case of a 47-year-old woman who presented with a left psoas mass presumptively diagnosed as an abscess secondary to lumbar tuberculosis In addition, the patient had abnormal increase of β-human chorionic gonadotropin. The computed tomography (CT) scan and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed that the 5th lumbar vertebral infection or tuberculosis with left psoas abscess. CT-guided percutaneous biopsy, surgical exploration and biopsy, and F-FDG (fluorodeoxyglucose) positron emission tomography-CT (PET-CT) were used to make a definite diagnosis. The sigmoidoscopy and biopsy were used to further diagnose. DIAGNOSES The biopsy of left psoas demonstrated metastatic or infiltrating poorly differentiated carcinoma with secretion of β-human chorionic gonadotropin. The subsequent pathological examination of neoplasm showed the same pathologic morphology. INTERVENTIONS Appropriate treatment of infected retroperitoneal mass, systematic chemotherapy and cancer biotherapy for metastatic poorly differentiated carcinoma were taken. OUTCOMES Interventions provided little help until the patient died of secondary infection and multiple organ failure. LESSONS This case represents an extremely unusual clinical presentation of metastatic poorly differentiated carcinoma with secretion of β-human chorionic gonadotropin presenting as a psoas abscess. Physicians also need to sharpen their awareness of the potential malignant carcinomas mimicking psoas abscess.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Weifang Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Faraoni EY, Camilletti MA, Abeledo-Machado A, Ratner LD, De Fino F, Huhtaniemi I, Rulli SB, Díaz-Torga G. Sex differences in the development of prolactinoma in mice overexpressing hCGβ: role of TGFβ1. J Endocrinol 2017; 232:535-546. [PMID: 28096433 DOI: 10.1530/joe-16-0371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [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: 12/02/2016] [Accepted: 01/17/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Female transgenic mice that overexpress the human chorionic gonadotrophin β subunit (hCGβ+) develop prolactinomas, whereas hCGβ+ males do not. The high levels of circulating hCG induce massive luteinization in the ovary of hCGβ+ females, and progesterone becomes the primary steroid hormone produced, but estradiol remains at physiological level. The involvement of high levels of progesterone in lactotroph proliferation is not clearly understood; hence, the pathogenesis of prolactinomas in hCGβ+ females remains unclear. TGFβ1 is an inhibitor of lactotroph function, and the reduced TGFβ1 activity found in prolactinomas has been proposed to be involved in tumor development. The aim of the present work was to study the role of TGFβ1 in the gender-specific development of prolactinomas in hCGβ+ mice. We compared the expression of different components of the pituitary TGFβ1 system in males and females in this model. We found reduced TGFβ1 levels, reduced expression of TGFβ1 target genes, TGFβ1 receptors, Ltbp1, Smad4 and Smad7 in hCGβ+ female pituitaries. However, no differences were found between the transgenic and wild-type male pituitaries. We postulate that decreased pituitary TGFβ1 activity in hCGβ+ females is involved in the development of prolactinomas. In fact, we demonstrated that an in vivo treatment carried out for increasing pituitary TGFβ1 activity, was successful in reducing the prolactinoma development, and the hyperprolactinemia in hCGβ+ females. Moreover, the stronger TGFβ1 system found in males could protect them from excessive lactotroph proliferation. Sex differences in the regulation of the pituitary TGFβ1 system could explain gender differences in the incidence of prolactinoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika Y Faraoni
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina ExperimentalConsejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Andrea Camilletti
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina ExperimentalConsejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Alejandra Abeledo-Machado
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina ExperimentalConsejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Laura D Ratner
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina ExperimentalConsejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Fernanda De Fino
- Instituto de Investigaciones FarmacológicasConsejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ilpo Huhtaniemi
- Department of Surgery & CancerInstitute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Susana B Rulli
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina ExperimentalConsejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Graciela Díaz-Torga
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina ExperimentalConsejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Zaleska M, Waclawik A, Bodek G, Zezula-Szpyra A, Li X, Janowski T, Hansel WH, Rahman NA, Ziecik AJ. Growth Repression in Diethylstilbestrol/Dimethylbenz[a]anthracene–Induced Rat Mammary Gland Tumor Using Hecate-CGβ Conjugate. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2016; 229:335-44. [PMID: 15044717 DOI: 10.1177/153537020422900408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [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: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently, we have shown that Hecate-CGβ conjugate, which is a fusion of the lytic peptide Hecate and a 15–amino acid fragment of the β-chain of chorionic gonadotropin (CGβ), selectively destroys mammary gland carcinoma cells that possess luteinizing hormone receptors (LHR) in vitro. We induced mammary gland tumors using combined prenatal exposure to synthetic diethylstilbestrol (DES) and additional postnatal exposure to dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA). Rats with tumors were equally randomized (10/group) and treated with either sham (control) or 12 mg/kg body wt of either Hecate or Hecate-CGβ once a week for 3 weeks by tail vein injections. One week after the last injection, rats were kilted. Reverse-transcription–nested polymerase chain reaction/Southern blotting revealed alternatively spliced mRNA for LHR in tumor tissues of 5 of 30 females, which was further confirmed by Western blot analysis. The percentage of tumor volume increase was lowest in the group treated with Hecate-CGβ (45.3 ± 27.6), compared with Hecate- and shamtreated, control group (324.8 ± 78.1 and 309.9 ± 51.2, respectively; P < 0.001). Hecate-CGβ induced a significant decrease in tumor burden compared with controls (9.5 ± 2.1 mg/g body wt vs. 21.6 ± 2.9; P < 0.01). A smaller reduction in tumor burden was also observed in Hecate-treated females (17.6 ± 1.6 mg/g body wt vs. 21.6 ± 2.9; P < 0.05). Our results prove the principle that Hecate-CGβ conjugate is able to repress mammary gland tumor growth, even in tumor tissues that lack or have very low levels of LHR. The mechanism of Hecate-CGβ conjugate action in repression of DES/DMBA-induced tumor growth needs to be further analyzed to clarify the molecular mechanisms of Hecate-CGβ conjugate action in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Zaleska
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, 10-747 Olsztyn, Poland
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Shah T, Joshi K, Mishra S, Otiv S, Kumbar V. Molecular and cellular effects of vitamin B12 forms on human trophoblast cells in presence of excessive folate. Biomed Pharmacother 2016; 84:526-534. [PMID: 27693961 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2016.09.071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [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: 07/17/2016] [Revised: 09/19/2016] [Accepted: 09/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Folic acid (FA) and iron are essential supplements during pregnancy. Similarly effects of vitamin B12 (B12) inadequacy and high folate and low B12 status, on pregnancy outcome are available. However there are no mandatory recommendations for B12. There are many forms of B12 viz. Cyanocobalamin (Cbl), Methylcobalamin (MeCbl), Adenosylcobalamin (AdCbl), and Hydroxycobalamin (HCbl) though there is limited consensus on which form has better efficacy. In the present study we have determined effect of various forms of B12 in the presence of two FA concentrations namely normal physiological (20ng/mL; NPFA) and supra-physiological (2000ng/mL; SPFA) concentration to mimic real time situation where FA is in excess due to supplementation. We assessed trophoblastic proliferation, viability, TNFα and EGFr mRNA expression, homocysteine, β-hCG and MDA levels. Trophoblastic viability was significantly suppressed at SPFA concentration and was restored by B12 treatment with Cbl, AdCbl and combination of MeCbl+AdCbl. The mRNA expressions of TNFα were up-regulated, while EGFr were down-regulated at SPFA concentrations, as validated by RT-PCR. Treatment with MeCbl+AdCbl significantly decreased homocysteine and MDA levels at SPFA concentrations. High levels of FA alone had a detrimental effect on placental health and functions as reflected by decreased viability, EGFr expression and increased TNFα expression, homocysteine and MDA levels. Combination of B12 active forms i.e. MeCbl+AdCbl was found to be most effective in neutralising excess folate effect in-vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tejas Shah
- Dr. Prabhakar Kore Basic Science Research Centre, KLE University, Nehru Nagar, Belagavi 590010, Karnataka, India
| | - Kalpana Joshi
- Department of Biotechnology, Sinhgad College of Engineering, Vadgaon Budruk, Pune 411041, Maharashtra, India.
| | - Sanjay Mishra
- Dr. Prabhakar Kore Basic Science Research Centre, KLE University, Nehru Nagar, Belagavi 590010, Karnataka, India
| | - Suhas Otiv
- Department of Gynaecology, KEM Hospital, Rasta Peth, Pune 411041, Maharashtra, India
| | - Vijay Kumbar
- Dr. Prabhakar Kore Basic Science Research Centre, KLE University, Nehru Nagar, Belagavi 590010, Karnataka, India
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Ratner LD, Stevens G, Bonaventura MM, Lux-Lantos VA, Poutanen M, Calandra RS, Huhtaniemi IT, Rulli SB. Hyperprolactinemia induced by hCG leads to metabolic disturbances in female mice. J Endocrinol 2016; 230:157-69. [PMID: 27154336 DOI: 10.1530/joe-15-0528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [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: 04/08/2016] [Accepted: 05/06/2016] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
The metabolic syndrome is a growing epidemic; it increases the risk for diabetes, cardiovascular disease, fatty liver, and several cancers. Several reports have indicated a link between hormonal imbalances and insulin resistance or obesity. Transgenic (TG) female mice overexpressing the human chorionic gonadotropin β-subunit (hCGβ+ mice) exhibit constitutively elevated levels of hCG, increased production of testosterone, progesterone and prolactin, and obesity. The objective of this study was to investigate the influence of hCG hypersecretion on possible alterations in the glucose and lipid metabolism of adult TG females. We evaluated fasting serum insulin, glucose, and triglyceride levels in adult hCGβ+ females and conducted intraperitoneal glucose and insulin tolerance tests at different ages. TG female mice showed hyperinsulinemia, hypertriglyceridemia, and dyslipidemia, as well as glucose intolerance and insulin resistance at 6 months of age. A 1-week treatment with the dopamine agonist cabergoline applied on 5-week-old hCGβ+ mice, which corrected hyperprolactinemia, hyperandrogenism, and hyperprogesteronemia, effectively prevented the metabolic alterations. These data indicate a key role of the hyperprolactinemia-induced gonadal dysfunction in the metabolic disturbances of hCGβ+ female mice. The findings prompt further studies on the involvement of gonadotropins and prolactin on metabolic disorders and might pave the way for the development of new therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura D Ratner
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y TécnicasBuenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Guillermina Stevens
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y TécnicasBuenos Aires, Argentina Hospital General de Agudos J. M. Ramos MejíaBuenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Maria Marta Bonaventura
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y TécnicasBuenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Victoria A Lux-Lantos
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y TécnicasBuenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Matti Poutanen
- Department of PhysiologyInstitute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland Turku Center for Disease ModelingUniversity of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Ricardo S Calandra
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y TécnicasBuenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ilpo T Huhtaniemi
- Department of PhysiologyInstitute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland Department of Surgery and CancerImperial College London, London, UK
| | - Susana B Rulli
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y TécnicasBuenos Aires, Argentina
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Gil MM, Revello R, Poon LC, Akolekar R, Nicolaides KH. Clinical implementation of routine screening for fetal trisomies in the UK NHS: cell-free DNA test contingent on results from first-trimester combined test. Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2016; 47:45-52. [PMID: 26498918 DOI: 10.1002/uog.15783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Cell-free DNA (cfDNA) analysis of maternal blood for detection of trisomies 21, 18 and 13 is superior to other methods of screening but is expensive. One strategy to maximize performance at reduced cost is to offer cfDNA testing contingent on the results of the first-trimester combined test that is used currently. The objectives of this study were to report the feasibility of implementing such screening, to examine the factors affecting patient decisions concerning their options for screening and decisions on the management of affected pregnancies and to report the prenatal diagnosis of fetal trisomies and outcome of affected pregnancies following the introduction of contingent screening. METHODS We examined routine clinical implementation of contingent screening in 11,692 singleton pregnancies in two National Health Service (NHS) hospitals in the UK. Women with a risk ≥ 1 in 100 (high-risk group) were offered options of invasive testing, cfDNA testing or no further testing, and those with a risk between 1 in 101 and 1 in 2500 (intermediate-risk group) were offered cfDNA testing or no further testing. The trisomic status of the pregnancies was determined by prenatal or postnatal karyotyping or by examination of the neonates. RESULTS In the study population of 11,692 pregnancies, there were 47 cases of trisomy 21 and 28 of trisomies 18 or 13. Screening with the combined test followed by invasive testing for all patients in the high-risk group potentially could have detected 87% of trisomy 21 and 93% of trisomies 18 or 13, at a false-positive rate of 3.4%; the respective values for cfDNA testing in the high- and intermediate-risk groups were 98%, 82% and 0.25%. However, in the high-risk group, 38% of women chose invasive testing and 60% chose cfDNA testing; in the intermediate-risk group 92% opted for cfDNA testing. A prenatal diagnosis was made in 43 (91.5%) pregnancies with trisomy 21 and all pregnancies with trisomies 18 or 13. In many affected pregnancies the parents chose to avoid testing or termination and 32% of pregnancies with trisomy 21 resulted in live births. CONCLUSIONS Screening for fetal trisomies by cfDNA analysis of maternal blood, contingent on the results of the combined test, can be implemented easily in routine clinical practice. In the high-risk group from the combined test, most but not all women chose cfDNA testing rather than invasive testing. Performance of screening for trisomy 21 was superior by the cfDNA test than by the combined test. However, prenatal detection of trisomies and pregnancy outcome depend not only on performance of screening tests but also on parental choice.
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Affiliation(s)
- M M Gil
- Harris Birthright Research Centre for Fetal Medicine, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - R Revello
- Harris Birthright Research Centre for Fetal Medicine, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - L C Poon
- Harris Birthright Research Centre for Fetal Medicine, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - R Akolekar
- Harris Birthright Research Centre for Fetal Medicine, King's College Hospital, London, UK
- Department of Fetal Medicine, Medway Maritime Hospital, Gillingham, Kent, UK
| | - K H Nicolaides
- Harris Birthright Research Centre for Fetal Medicine, King's College Hospital, London, UK
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Wulff CB, Gerds TA, Rode L, Ekelund CK, Petersen OB, Tabor A. Risk of fetal loss associated with invasive testing following combined first-trimester screening for Down syndrome: a national cohort of 147,987 singleton pregnancies. Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2016; 47:38-44. [PMID: 26581188 DOI: 10.1002/uog.15820] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2015] [Revised: 11/16/2015] [Accepted: 11/16/2015] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess prospectively the risk of fetal loss associated with chorionic villus sampling (CVS) and amniocentesis (AC) following combined first-trimester screening (cFTS) for Down syndrome. METHODS This was a nationwide population-based study (Danish Fetal Medicine Database, 2008-2010) including 147,987 women with singleton pregnancy who underwent cFTS. Propensity score stratification was used to assess the risk of fetal loss with and without invasive testing. Analyses were performed between 3 and 21 days after cFTS for CVS and between 28 and 42 days after cFTS for AC. Results are reported as average risk differences with 95% CIs. RESULTS The risks of miscarriage and stillbirth were not higher in women exposed to CVS or AC compared with unexposed women, independent of the analysis time-point. The average effect of CVS on risk of miscarriage was -0.08% (95% CI, -0.64; 0.47) at 3 days and -0.21% (95% CI, -0.58; 0.15) at 21 days after cFTS, while the effect on risk of stillbirth was -0.18% (95% CI, -0.50; 0.13) at 3 days and -0.27% (95% CI, -0.58; 0.04) at 21 days after cFTS. Regarding the effect of AC on risk of miscarriage, the analysis at 28 days after cFTS showed an average effect of 0.56% (95% CI, -0.21; 1.33), while the effect on risk of stillbirth was 0.09% (95% CI, -0.39; 0.58) at 42 days after cFTS. CONCLUSION Neither CVS nor AC was associated with increased risk of miscarriage or stillbirth. These findings indicate that the procedure-related risk of CVS and AC is very low.
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Affiliation(s)
- C B Wulff
- Center of Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - T A Gerds
- Section of Biostatistics, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - L Rode
- Center of Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Copenhagen University Hospital, Herlev and Gentofte Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - C K Ekelund
- Center of Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - O B Petersen
- Fetal Medicine Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aarhus University Hospital, Skejby, Denmark
| | - A Tabor
- Center of Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Bakalis S, Gallo DM, Mendez O, Poon LC, Nicolaides KH. Prediction of small-for-gestational-age neonates: screening by maternal biochemical markers at 30-34 weeks. Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2015; 46:208-215. [PMID: 25826797 DOI: 10.1002/uog.14861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2015] [Accepted: 03/25/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the potential value of serum placental growth factor (PlGF), soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1), pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A), free β-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) and α-fetoprotein (AFP) at 30-34 weeks' gestation in the prediction of delivery of small-for-gestational-age (SGA) neonates, in the absence of pre-eclampsia (PE). METHODS This was a screening study in singleton pregnancies at 30-34 weeks' gestation, including 490 that delivered SGA neonates and 9360 cases that were unaffected by SGA, PE or gestational hypertension (normal outcome). Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to determine if screening by serum PlGF, sFlt-1, PAPP-A, free β-hCG and AFP, individually or in combination, improved the prediction of SGA neonates provided by screening with maternal characteristics and medical history (maternal factors), and estimated fetal weight (EFW) from fetal head circumference, abdominal circumference and femur length. RESULTS Compared to the normal group, the mean log10 multiples of the median (MoM) values of PlGF and AFP were significantly lower and the mean log10 MoM values of sFlt-1 and free β-hCG were significantly higher in the SGA group with a birth weight < 5(th) percentile (SGA < 5(th)) delivering < 5 weeks following assessment. The best model for prediction of SGA was provided by a combination of maternal factors, EFW and serum PlGF. Such combined screening, predicted, at a 10% false-positive rate, 85%, 93% and 92% of SGA neonates delivering < 5 weeks following assessment with birth weight < 10(th), < 5(th) and < 3(rd) percentiles, respectively; the respective detection rates of combined screening for SGA neonates delivering ≥ 5 weeks following assessment were 57%, 64% and 71%. CONCLUSION Combined screening by maternal factors, EFW and serum PlGF at 30-34 weeks' gestation can identify a high proportion of pregnancies that subsequently deliver SGA neonates.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Bakalis
- Harris Birthright Research Centre for Fetal Medicine, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - D M Gallo
- Harris Birthright Research Centre for Fetal Medicine, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - O Mendez
- Harris Birthright Research Centre for Fetal Medicine, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - L C Poon
- Harris Birthright Research Centre for Fetal Medicine, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - K H Nicolaides
- Harris Birthright Research Centre for Fetal Medicine, King's College Hospital, London, UK
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Wright D, Papadopoulos S, Silva M, Wright A, Nicolaides KH. Serum free β-human chorionic gonadotropin in the three trimesters of pregnancy: effects of maternal characteristics and medical history. Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2015; 46:51-59. [PMID: 25846870 DOI: 10.1002/uog.14869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2015] [Accepted: 03/25/2015] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To define the contribution of maternal variables which influence the measured level of maternal serum free β-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) in screening for pregnancy complications. METHODS Maternal characteristics and medical history were recorded and serum free β-hCG was measured in women with a singleton pregnancy attending for three routine hospital visits at 11 + 0 to 13 + 6, 19 + 0 to 24 + 6 and 30 + 0 to 34 + 6 weeks' gestation. For pregnancies delivering phenotypically normal live births or stillbirths ≥ 24 weeks' gestation, variables from maternal demographic characteristics and medical history that are important in the prediction of free β-hCG were determined from a linear mixed-effects multiple regression. RESULTS Serum free β-hCG was measured in 94 985 cases in the first trimester, 7879 in the second trimester and 8424 in the third trimester. Significant independent contributions to serum free β-hCG were provided by gestational age, maternal weight, age and racial origin, cigarette smoking, method of conception, diabetes mellitus and family history of pre-eclampsia (PE) in the mother of the patient. The effects of some variables were similar and those for others differed in each trimester. Random-effects multiple regression analysis was used to define the contribution of maternal variables that influence the measured level of serum free β-hCG and express the values as multiples of the median (MoMs). The model was shown to provide an adequate fit of MoM values for all covariates both in pregnancies that developed PE and in those without this pregnancy complication. CONCLUSIONS A model was fitted to express measured serum free β-hCG across the three trimesters of pregnancy as MoMs after adjusting for variables from maternal characteristics and medical history that affect this measurement.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Wright
- Institute of Health Research, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - S Papadopoulos
- Harris Birthright Research Centre for Fetal Medicine, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - M Silva
- Harris Birthright Research Centre for Fetal Medicine, King's College Hospital, London, UK
| | - A Wright
- Institute of Health Research, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - K H Nicolaides
- Harris Birthright Research Centre for Fetal Medicine, King's College Hospital, London, UK
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Cole LA, Butler SA. B152 anti-hyperglycosylated human chorionic gonadotropin free β-Subunit. A new, possible treatment for cancer. J Reprod Med 2015; 60:13-20. [PMID: 25745746] [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: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the ability of B152 to block cancer growth in cell lines in vivo and in nude mice in vitro. STUDY DESIGN We examined JAR, JEG-3, and NTERA trophoblastic cancer cell lines and KLE, Hec-1A, SCaBER, and T24 nontrophoblastic cancer cell lines. JEG-3 cells were transplanted into 8 nude mice. Four nude mice were administered B152 antibody, and 4 were administered control non-specific IgG. Two studies were completed: first with antibody treatment started 2 weeks after cancer transplantation, and second with antibody treatment started at the time of transplantation. RESULTS In 3 trophoblastic cancer lines and 4 non-trophoblastic cancer cell lines, B152 suppressed the growth of cancer cells, forcing cells into a state of regression. When B152 was administered to nude mice with tumor xenographs, the antibody blocked cancer cell growth and invoked oncostasis. When B152 was administered to nude mice starting at time of xenograph transplantation, the antibody prevented tumor growth completely. CONCLUSION B152 suppresses tumor growth by seemingly blocking hyperglycosylated human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) free β-subunit effects. Thus, highly specific antibodies against hCG such as B152 may form part of a novel adjuvant treatment regimen against hCG-producing tumors in humans. This may form a new treatment for humans.
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Fénichel P, Rouzier C, Butori C, Chevallier P, Poullot AG, Thyss A, Mouroux J. Extragestational βHCG secretion due to an isolated lung epithelioid trophoblastic tumor: microsatellite genotyping of tumoral cells confirmed their placental origin and oriented specific chemotherapy. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2014; 99:3515-20. [PMID: 25029419 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2014-1460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Persistent secretion of β-human chorionic gonadotropin (βHCG) in the absence of an ongoing or recent pregnancy and without persistent uterine gestational disease is a rare but challenging situation that requires locating the extrauterine secreting tumor and distinguishing between extragestational choriocarcinoma and gestational trophoblastic neoplasms. CASE PRESENTATION An unexplained, persistent extragestational βHCG secretion occurring in a 29-year-old, nonsmoking woman with abnormal uterine bleeding 4 years after a normal pregnancy and without persistent gestational disease led to the discovery by whole-body computed tomography/positron emission tomography of an isolated pulmonary tumor. OBJECTIVE Characterization of paternal alleles in tumoral cells in order to establish their fetal origin, which may be helpful for the diagnosis and treatment of such tumors. METHODS AND RESULTS After the surgical procedure, clinical, histological, and immunocytochemical analysis ruled out primary or metastatic bronchopulmonary carcinoma or choriocarcinoma and supported the diagnosis of an isolated, primary, epithelioid trophoblastic tumor. Microsatellite genotyping of tumoral cells identifying paternal alleles confirmed their placental origin and their migration to the lungs, with likely secondary malignant transformation, and guided the choice of postsurgical chemotherapy needed to completely eradicate βHCG secretion. CONCLUSION Persistent extragestational secretion of βHCG in a young nonsmoking woman with a precedent pregnancy and an isolated lung tumor suggests the diagnosis of epithelioid trophoblastic tumor, a very rare malignant tumor for which placental origin needs to be confirmed, especially when occurring several years after the patient's last pregnancy. Simple microsatellite genotyping of tumoral cells will allow this confirmation of diagnosis and help in personalizing chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Fénichel
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology (P.F., A.-G.P.), University Hospital of Nice, 06200 Nice, France; Inserm U1065 C3M (P.F.), University of Nice Sophia-Antipolis, 06202 Nice, France; Laboratory of Medical Genetics and Molecular Biology (C.R.), Laboratory of Clinical and Experimental Pathology (C.B.), and Department of Medical Imaging (P.C.), Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Nice, 06202 Nice, France; Department of Medical Oncology (A.T.), Centre Antoine Lacassagne, 06100 Nice, France; and Department of Thoracic Surgery (J.M.), CHU Nice, 06002 Nice, France
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Bolnick JM, Kilburn BA, Bajpayee S, Reddy N, Jeelani R, Crone B, Simmerman N, Singh M, Diamond MP, Armant DR. Trophoblast retrieval and isolation from the cervix (TRIC) for noninvasive prenatal screening at 5 to 20 weeks of gestation. Fertil Steril 2014; 102:135-142.e6. [PMID: 24825422 PMCID: PMC10411519 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [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: 01/26/2014] [Revised: 04/06/2014] [Accepted: 04/07/2014] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To use trophoblast cells accumulating in the endocervical canal at the beginning of pregnancy for noninvasive prenatal testing. DESIGN Prospective, double-blinded test for fetal gender. SETTING Academic medical center. PATIENT(S) Fifty-six women with singleton pregnancies at gestational age 5-20 weeks. INTERVENTION(S) Isolation of fetal cells from resident maternal cells in endocervical specimens using anti-human leukocyte antigen G coupled to magnetic nanoparticles; cell phenotyping immunofluorescently with a panel of trophoblast subtype-specific proteins; DNA integrity assessment with terminal dUTP nick-end labeling (TUNEL); and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) to detect sex chromosomes in individual cells. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Trophoblast phenotype, TUNEL index, and percentage male cells. RESULT(S) The women were given a routine Papanicolaou test; fetal genders were verified from medical records. Recovery after immunomagnetic isolation averaged 746±59 cells across gestational age, with 99% expressing chorionic gonadotropin, whereas the depleted cell fraction expressed none. The isolated cells had an extravillous trophoblast phenotype and intact nuclear DNA (>95%). Fetal gender was determined in 20 specimens without error by PCR. The FISH analysis of isolated cells from male specimens validated their fetal origin. CONCLUSION(S) Noninvasive prenatal testing is feasible beginning at a gestational age of 5 weeks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jay M Bolnick
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, C. S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Brian A Kilburn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, C. S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Swati Bajpayee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, C. S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Nitya Reddy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, C. S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Roohi Jeelani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, C. S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Barbara Crone
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, C. S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Neil Simmerman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, C. S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Manivinder Singh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, C. S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan
| | - Michael P Diamond
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Georgia Regents University, Augusta, Georgia
| | - D Randall Armant
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, C. S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan; Anatomy and Cell Biology, C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan; Program in Reproductive and Adult Endocrinology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland.
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Marchetti T, Ruffatti A, Wuillemin C, de Moerloose P, Cohen M. Hydroxychloroquine restores trophoblast fusion affected by antiphospholipid antibodies. J Thromb Haemost 2014; 12:910-20. [PMID: 24656088 DOI: 10.1111/jth.12570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [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: 09/27/2013] [Accepted: 03/13/2014] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Obstetric antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is defined by pregnancy complications associated with antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL). The mechanisms of the pathogenic effects of aPL in pregnancy are poorly understood. Toll-like receptors (TLR) have been implicated previously in APS. OBJECTIVES The aims of our study were (1) to determine aPL effects on trophoblastic cell fusion and differentiation, (2) to identify which TLR is involved in this process, and (3) to evaluate the efficacy of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) to counteract the effects of aPL. METHODS BeWo cells are a model for trophoblast fusion and differentiation. Fusion index was assessed by immunocytochemical examination, and biochemical differentiation by using ELISA-measured β-human choronic gonadotropin hormone (β-hCG) secretion. We used three types of aPL to study their effect on cell fusion and differentiation: aPL derived from obstetric APS patients and affinity purified and polyclonal rabbit anti-β2-glycoprotein-1 (anti-β2GP1) antibodies. Experiments on fusion were confirmed using primary cytotrophoblastic cells. RESULTS All of the types of aPL used decreased the fusion index in BeWo and primary trophoblastic cells (64%, 52%, and 41% for BeWo cells and 67% and 62% for primary cells, respectively), and anti-β2GP1 antibodies decreased hCG secretion in BeWo cells (41%). To block TLR4 antibodies or to abolish TLR4 cell surface expression restored fusion index in both cell types and β-human choronic gonadotropin hormone excretion in BeWo cells. HCQ treatment induced the same effect and decreased TLR4 mRNA (40% and 35%, respectively) and protein expressions (62% and 42%, respectively) in BeWo cells. CONCLUSION Anti-β2GP1 antibodies decrease trophoblastic differentiation via TLR4. This effect is restored by HCQ, suggesting its therapeutic interest in APS pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Marchetti
- Laboratory of Hormonology, Maternity, Geneva University Hospitals and Faculty of Medicine of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland; Angiology and Haemostasis Division, Geneva University Hospitals and Faculty of Medicine of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
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Burczynska BB, Kobrouly L, Butler SA, Naase M, Iles RK. Novel insights into the expression of CGB1 & 2 genes by epithelial cancer cell lines secreting ectopic free hCGβ. Anticancer Res 2014; 34:2239-2248. [PMID: 24778026] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ectopic secretion of human chorionic gonadotrophin free beta (hCGβ) by epithelial cancer is associated with aggressive tumors which more readily metastasize, possibly by acting as an autocrine anti-apoptotic agent. hCGβ is encoded by six homologous CGB genes, with poorly-understood variable transcriptionally active expression profiles; CGB1 and CGB2 have always been considered pseudogenes. However, transcripts from CGB1 and -2 can be detected in placental, testicular and pituitary tissues. The expression and function of these genes in cancer is less well-known. MATERIALS AND METHODS Expression profiles of CGB genes in epithelial cancer cells by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) were explored, along with the consequence of specific siRNA silencing of CGB1 and 2. Immunohistochemical and immunoassay techniques were used to detect the translation and secretion of hCGβ in these cells. RESULTS CGB1 and -2 gene transcripts were only detected in cells which secreted hCGβ. siRNA-mediated silencing of CGB1 and -2 transcripts significantly reduced secreted protein in concordance with a reduction in cell survival to a greater degree than that of other CGB genes. CONCLUSION CGB genes 1 and 2, previously considered as pseudogenes, are notably expressed by epithelial cancer cell lines. The transcription of these genes, but not other CGB genes, correlates with a functionally expressed protein and propensity for cancer growth.
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MESH Headings
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Chorionic Gonadotropin, beta Subunit, Human/biosynthesis
- Chorionic Gonadotropin, beta Subunit, Human/genetics
- Chorionic Gonadotropin, beta Subunit, Human/metabolism
- Humans
- Immunohistochemistry
- Neoplasms, Glandular and Epithelial/genetics
- Neoplasms, Glandular and Epithelial/metabolism
- Protein Isoforms/genetics
- RNA, Small Interfering
- Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Transcriptome
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Gabay R, Rozen S, Samokovlisky A, Amor Y, Rosenfeld R, Kohen F, Amsterdam A, Berger P, Ben-Menahem D. The role of the 3' region of mammalian gonadotropin β subunit gene in the luteinizing hormone to chorionic gonadotropin evolution. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2014; 382:781-90. [PMID: 24239648 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2013.10.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2013] [Revised: 10/28/2013] [Accepted: 10/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
CGβ subunits comprise a unique carboxyl-terminal peptide (CTP) that has multiple O-linked glycans and extends serum half-life of the protein. It has evolved by incorporating a previously untranslated region of the LHβ gene into the reading frame. Although CTP-like sequences are encrypted in the LHβ genes of several mammals, the CGβ subunit developed only in primates and equids. To study this restriction in evolution, we examined whether the cryptic CTP decoded from the bovine LHβ gene (boCTP) possesses key characteristics of the human (h) CGβ-CTP. The boCTP does not impede several crucial aspects of hormone biosynthesis, but compared to the hCGβ-CTP, the stretch lacks O-glycans and determinants for circulatory survival. O-glycan deficiency and the associated incapacity to extend serum half-life is a major drawback of the boCTP. This may explain why LH did not evolve into CG in ruminants and consequently alternative mechanisms evolved to delay luteolysis early in gestation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reut Gabay
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Shelly Rozen
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | | | | | | | - Fortune Kohen
- Department of Biological Regulation, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Abraham Amsterdam
- Department of Molecular Cell Biology, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Peter Berger
- Endocrinology Unit, Institute for Biomedical Aging Research, University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - David Ben-Menahem
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel.
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Bachelot A, Carré N, Mialon O, Matelot M, Servel N, Monget P, Ahtiainen P, Huhtaniemi I, Binart N. The permissive role of prolactin as a regulator of luteinizing hormone action in the female mouse ovary and extragonadal tumorigenesis. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2013; 305:E845-52. [PMID: 23921141 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00243.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Transgenic female mice overexpressing the hCGβ subunit (hCGβ(+)) and producing elevated levels of luteinizing hormone (LH)/hCG bioactivity present as young adults with enhanced ovarian steroidogenesis, precocious puberty, and infertility. They subsequently develop pituitary prolactinomas, high circulating prolactin (PRL) levels, and marked mammary gland lobuloalveolar development followed by adenocarcinomas. None of these phenotypes appear in gonadectomized mice, indicating that the hCG-induced aberrations of ovarian function are responsible for the extragonadal phenotypes. PRL receptor-deficient (PRLR(-/-)) female mice are sterile, despite ovulating, due to a failure of embryo implantation, as a consequence of decreased ovarian LH receptor (Lhcgr) expression and inadequate corpus luteum formation and progesterone production. To study further the presumed permissive role of PRL in the maintenance of gonadal responsiveness to LH/hCG stimulation, we crossed the hCGβ(+) and PRLR(-/-) mice. The double-mutant hCGβ(+)/PRLR(-/-) females remained sterile with an ovarian phenotype similar to PRLR(-/-) mice, indicating that LH action, Lhcgr expression, and consequent luteinization are not possible without simultaneous PRL signaling. The high frequency of pituitary prolactinomas in PRLR(-/-) mice was not affected by transgenic hCGβ expression. In contrast, none of the hCGβ(+)/PRLR(-/-) females showed either mammary gland lobuloalveolar development or tumors, and the increased mammary gland Wnt-5b expression, possibly responsible for the tumorigenesis in hCGβ(+) mice, was absent in double-mutant mice. Hence, high LH/hCG stimulation is unable to compensate for missing PRL signaling in the maintenance of luteal function. PRL thus appears to be a major permissive regulator of LH action in the ovary and of its secondary extragonadal effects.
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MESH Headings
- Adenocarcinoma/genetics
- Adenocarcinoma/metabolism
- Adenocarcinoma/pathology
- Animals
- Carcinogenesis/metabolism
- Carcinogenesis/pathology
- Chorionic Gonadotropin, beta Subunit, Human/genetics
- Chorionic Gonadotropin, beta Subunit, Human/metabolism
- Corpus Luteum/metabolism
- Female
- Luteinizing Hormone/metabolism
- Mammary Glands, Animal/metabolism
- Mammary Glands, Animal/pathology
- Mammary Neoplasms, Animal/genetics
- Mammary Neoplasms, Animal/metabolism
- Mammary Neoplasms, Animal/pathology
- Mice
- Mice, Transgenic
- Ovary/metabolism
- Progesterone/metabolism
- Prolactin/blood
- Prolactin/metabolism
- Receptors, Prolactin/genetics
- Receptors, Prolactin/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Bachelot
- AP-HP, Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital, Paris, France
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Godbert B, Tiotiu A, Masias C, Martinet Y. [Inadequate secretion of β-human chorionic gonadotropin in lung cancer]. Rev Pneumol Clin 2013; 69:298-301. [PMID: 24035551 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneumo.2013.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2011] [Accepted: 04/15/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The inadequate secretion of β-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-HCG) during non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is rare and quite ignored. The dosage of β-HCG is probably not systematically realized in women who are in age of pregnancy and who need chemotherapy (CT) despite the descriptions of cases of prescription of CT against lung cancer in women who were pregnant. The incidence of NSCLC cancer is increasing and the risk to prescribe a CT in a woman who is pregnant is also increasing. CASES REPORTS We describe the cases of two women and one man who had an augmentation of the β-HCG plasmatic level before the prescription of CT against lung cancer. In women, the differential diagnostic between inadequate secretion of β-HCG and pregnancy has been a problem. CONCLUSION The inadequate secretion of β-HCG during NSCLC is probably not so rare. The dosage of this hormone before each infusion of CT should be systematic to avoid the realization of CT during pregnancy. This raises the question of the method for differential diagnostic between pregnancy and inadequate secretion of β-HCG in young women who suffer from NSCLC, especially when a small level of β-HCG is measured.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Godbert
- Service de pneumologie, hôpitaux de Brabois, centre hospitalier universitaire de Nancy, rue du Morvan, 54511 Vandœuvre-lès-Nancy cedex, France.
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Nicolaides KH, Wright D, Poon LC, Syngelaki A, Gil MM. First-trimester contingent screening for trisomy 21 by biomarkers and maternal blood cell-free DNA testing. Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2013; 42:41-50. [PMID: 23744626 DOI: 10.1002/uog.12511] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/09/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To define risk cut-offs with corresponding detection rates (DR) and false-positive rates (FPR) in screening for trisomy 21 using maternal age and combinations of first-trimester biomarkers in order to determine which women should undergo contingent maternal blood cell-free (cf) DNA testing. METHODS From singleton pregnancies undergoing screening for aneuploidies at three UK hospitals between March 2006 and May 2012, we analyzed prospectively collected data on the following biomarkers: fetal nuchal translucency thickness (NT) and ductus venosus pulsatility index for veins (DV-PIV) at 11 + 0 to 13 + 6 weeks' gestation and serum free β-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG), pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A), placental growth factor (PlGF) and alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) at 8 + 0 to 13 + 6 weeks. Estimates of risk cut-offs, DRs and FPRs were derived for combinations of biomarkers and these were used to define the best strategy for contingent cfDNA testing. RESULTS In contingent screening, detection of 98% of fetuses with trisomy 21 at an overall invasive testing rate < 0.5% can be potentially achieved by offering cfDNA testing to about 36%, 21% and 11% of cases identified by first-line screening using the combined test alone, using the combined test with the addition of serum PlGF and AFP and using the combined test with the addition of PlGF, AFP and DV-PIV, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Effective first-trimester screening for trisomy 21, with DR of 98% and invasive testing rate < 0.5%, can be potentially achieved by contingent screening incorporating biomarkers and cfDNA testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- K H Nicolaides
- Harris Birthright Research Centre for Fetal Medicine, King's College Hospital, London, UK.
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Gil MM, Quezada MS, Bregant B, Ferraro M, Nicolaides KH. Implementation of maternal blood cell-free DNA testing in early screening for aneuploidies. Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2013; 42:34-40. [PMID: 23744609 DOI: 10.1002/uog.12504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2013] [Revised: 04/14/2013] [Accepted: 04/25/2013] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the feasibility of routine maternal blood cell-free (cf) DNA testing in screening for trisomies 21, 18 and 13 at 10 weeks' gestation. METHOD In this prospective study, women attending The Fetal Medicine Centre in London, UK, between October 2012 and April 2013, with singleton pregnancy and live fetus with CRL 32-45 mm, were screened for trisomies 21, 18 and 13 by cfDNA testing at 10 weeks and the combined test at 12 weeks. RESULTS cfDNA testing was performed in 1005 singleton pregnancies with a median maternal age of 37 (range, 20-49) years. Risks for trisomies were provided for 957 (95.2%) cases and in 98.0% these were available within 14 days from sampling. In 48 (4.8%) cases no result was provided due to problems with delivery to the laboratory, low fetal fraction or assay failure. Repeat sampling was performed in 40 cases and a result obtained in 27 (67.5%) of these. In 11 cases the risk score for trisomy 21 and in five cases that for trisomy 18 was > 99%, in one the risk for trisomy 13 was 34% and in 968 the risk for each of the three trisomies was < 0.01%. The suspected trisomies were confirmed by karyotyping after chorionic villus sampling (CVS), except in one case of trisomy 18 in which the karyotype was normal. On the basis of the maternal age distribution of the study population, the expected and observed numbers for each of the three trisomies were similar. Both cfDNA and combined testing detected all trisomies, but the estimated false-positive rates (FPR) were 0.1% and 3.4%, respectively. CONCLUSION Routine screening for trisomies 21, 18 and 13 by cfDNA testing at 10 weeks is feasible and has a lower FPR than does combined testing, but abnormal results require confirmation by CVS.
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Affiliation(s)
- M M Gil
- Harris Birthright Research Centre for Fetal Medicine, King's College Hospital, London, UK
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Zhou Y, Lu H, Yu C, Tian Q, Lu W. Sonographic characteristics of placental site trophoblastic tumor. Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2013; 41:679-684. [PMID: 22807194 DOI: 10.1002/uog.12269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/05/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate clinical features and ultrasound findings in cases of placental site trophoblastic tumor (PSTT). METHODS Fourteen cases of PSTT treated at our institution between May 2004 and October 2010 were identified and the clinical features and findings on transvaginal sonography (TVS) were investigated. Pathological confirmation of PSTT was obtained in all cases. RESULTS The most frequent symptoms associated with PSTT were abnormal vaginal bleeding, which was present in 11 cases, and amenorrhea, which was present in five cases. The interval from antecedent pregnancy to diagnosis was 4-36 (median, 12.5) months. Blood serum was positive for beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) at the time of ultrasound examination, although the level was generally low, with a median of 166.2 IU/L (range, 4.5-3480.2). Sonographic presentation of PSTT was classified into one of three types according to the characteristics observed on TVS: Type I, heterogeneous solid mass in the uterine cavity (four cases), with minimal to a moderate degree of vascularization on color Doppler imaging; Type II, heterogeneous solid mass in the myometrium (six cases), with minimal to a high degree of vascularization (only one case was highly vascularized); and Type III, cystic lesions in the myometrium (four cases) with a high degree of vascularization (lacunar-type lesions). CONCLUSIONS Combined with clinical features, characteristics demonstrated by TVS provide evidence for the suspicion of PSTT and could contribute to clinical decision making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Zhou
- Ultrasound Department, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
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Li XH, Ouyang Y, Lu GX. Value of transvaginal sonography in diagnosing heterotopic pregnancy after in-vitro fertilization with embryo transfer. Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2013; 41:563-569. [PMID: 23610036 DOI: 10.1002/uog.12341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/12/2012] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the value of transvaginal sonography (TVS) in the diagnosis of heterotopic pregnancy (HP) in the first trimester after in-vitro fertilization with embryo transfer (IVF-ET). METHODS This was a retrospective review of women undergoing IVF-ET between January 2005 and December 2011. Women were diagnosed with an HP using TVS if a visible intrauterine gestational sac was observed with any of the following: (i) an inhomogeneous adnexal mass; (ii) an empty extrauterine gestational sac seen as a hyperechoic ring; or (iii) a yolk sac and/or fetal pole with or without cardiac activity in an extrauterine sac. RESULTS Overall, 16 483 consecutive women who underwent IVF had TVS during the study. Of these, 174 cases were diagnosed on TVS as having an HP, and 10 cases were missed. Fifty-two cases were treated expectantly and were excluded from the analysis. Three types of ultrasonographic presentation of ectopic pregnancy (EP) were seen in HP patients, with a gestational sac found in 70 cases, a ring sign in 21 and an adnexal mass in 31. The sensitivity and specificity of TVS for the detection of HP were 92.4 and 100%, respectively, with positive and negative predictive values of 100 and 99.9%. The HP cases comprised 103 tubal EPs and 29 non-tubal EPs. In 93 patients (70.5%), their intrauterine pregnancy resulted in a live birth, 37 patients (28.0%) suffered an early miscarriage and two patients (1.5%) had a late miscarriage. CONCLUSION Early TVS performed by an experienced sonographer has a high sensitivity for making the correct diagnosis of HP after IVF-ET.
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Affiliation(s)
- X H Li
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
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Gebeh AK, Willets JM, Bari M, Hirst RA, Marczylo TH, Taylor AH, Maccarrone M, Konje JC. Elevated anandamide and related N-acylethanolamine levels occur in the peripheral blood of women with ectopic pregnancy and are mirrored by changes in peripheral fatty acid amide hydrolase activity. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2013; 98:1226-34. [PMID: 23372171 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2012-3390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies from knockout mice suggest that perturbations in oviductal endocannabinoid levels, endocannabinoid receptors, or endocannabinoid degrading enzyme [fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH)] expression result in infertility secondary to physical trapping of embryos. Similar observations have been made in ectopic pregnant women together with a suggestion that the endocannabinoid receptor gene polymorphism 1359G/A (rs1049353) is associated with ectopic pregnancy. These observations led to the hypothesis that ectopic pregnancy is associated with a perturbation in levels of endocannabinoids and FAAH activity and that such changes are associated with impaired tubal function. AIMS The objective of the study was to quantify the plasma levels of endocannabinoids (anandamide, oleoylethanolamide, and palmitoylethanolamide) and evaluate blood endocannabinoid metabolizing enzyme activities FAAH and N-acyl-phosphatidyl-ethanolamine phospholipase D (NAPE-PLD) in ectopic pregnancy and normal pregnant controls and relate that to β-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) levels. Additionally, we wanted to examine the effect of endocannabinoids on cilia beat frequency in Fallopian tube epithelial cells ex vivo. PARTICIPANTS AND METHODS Whole blood collected from ectopic and normal pregnancies was used for quantification of plasma endocannabinoid levels by ultra-HPLC-tandem mass spectrometry of FAAH and NAPE-PLD enzyme activities by radiometric assays, and β-hCG by immunoassay. Fallopian tube epithelial cells from healthy volunteers were treated with endocannabinoids and cilia beat frequency analyzed using a high-speed digital camera and CiliaFA software. RESULTS FAAH activity (P < .05) but not NAPE-PLD activity was significantly reduced in ectopic pregnancies. All 3 endocannabinoids levels were significantly higher (P < .05) in ectopic pregnancy. There was no correlation between endocannabinoids, enzyme activity, and β-hCG levels. Oleoylethanolamide (P < .05), but not methanandamide or palmitoylethanolamide, significantly decreased cilia beat frequency in Fallopian tube epithelial cells. CONCLUSION Elevated endocannabinoid levels and reduced FAAH activity are associated with ectopic pregnancy and may modulate tubal function, suggesting dysfunctional endocannabinoid action in ectopic implantation. Oleoylethanolamide may play a critical role in embryo-tubal transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alpha K Gebeh
- Endocannabinoid Research Group, Reproductive Sciences Section, Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine, University of Leicester, Leicester Royal Infirmary, University of Leicester, Leicester LE2 7LX, United Kingdom
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Taverne J, Delourme J, Dhalluin X, Copin MC, Scherpereel A, Lafitte JJ, Cortot AB. [Should elevated beta-HCG levels be an exclusion criteria in clinical trials? A case report of paraneoplastic secretion associated with lung adenocarcinoma]. Rev Pneumol Clin 2013; 69:36-40. [PMID: 23337393 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneumo.2012.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2012] [Revised: 12/10/2012] [Accepted: 12/14/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
We report the case of a 55-year-old woman with pulmonary adenocarcinoma and bone metastases who was diagnosed with paraneoplastic secretion of the beta subunit of human chorionic gonadotropin (beta-HCG) while being screened for inclusion in a clinical trial. Immunohistochemistry analysis of a bone biopsy revealed strong staining of cancer cells with anti-beta HCG antibodies. Serial measurements of circulating Beta HCG seemed to be influenced by antineoplastic treatments, although they were not strictly associated with tumour evolution assessed by CT scans. Little is known about paraneoplastic secretion of beta HCG, although it has been found in 12% to 24% of non-small cell lung cancers. Usefulness of serial measurements of beta HCG for monitoring NSCLC has yet to be demonstrated, but its use as a criterion for inclusion in clinical trials needs to be questioned.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Taverne
- Service de pneumologie et oncologie thoracique, hôpital Calmette, CHRU de Lille, boulevard du Pr-Leclercq, 59037 Lille, France
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Dinopoulou V, Partsinevelos GA, Mavrogianni D, Anagnostou E, Drakakis P, Makrigiannakis A, Chrousos GP, Loutradis D. The effect of CRH and its inhibitor, antalarmin, on in vitro growth of preantral mouse follicles, early embryo development, and steroidogenesis. Endocrinology 2013; 154:222-31. [PMID: 23211705 DOI: 10.1210/en.2012-1838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [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
In vitro growth systems of preantral follicles allow studying the effect of various endocrine, paracrine, and autocrine factors on follicular growth and oocyte maturation. CRH is a 41-amino-acid neuropeptide responsible for endocrine, autonomic, immunological, and behavioral responses of mammals to stress and has two receptors, CRH receptor type 1 (CRH-R1) and CRH-R2. Antalarmin, a CRH-R1 antagonist, has been used to elucidate the role of CRH in stress, inflammation, and reproduction. The present study describes in vitro growth of mouse preantral follicles, early embryo development, and steroidogenesis in the presence of CRH and its antagonist antalarmin. We cultured 732 follicles in control media, 1306 in CRH 10(-7) mol/liter, and 1202 in CRH 10(-7) plus antalarmin 10(-6) mol/liter. The culture medium was assayed on alternate days for 17β-estradiol, progesterone, and β-human chorionic gonadotropin. Total RNA was extracted from preantral follicles as well as early preimplantation embryos and was assessed by real-time RT-PCR for the expression of CRH-R1 and CRH-R2 mRNAs. Hormone analysis showed that the CRH group had lower levels of 17β-estradiol, progesterone, and β-human chorionic gonadotropin as the culture progressed, in comparison with the other two groups. RT-PCR demonstrated the presence of CRH-R1 and CRH-R2 in all stages of preantral follicle culture. Morula/blastocyst-stage embryos expressed only CRH-R1. In conclusion, CRH has an inhibitory effect on in vitro fertilized oocytes, resulting from cultured preantral follicles at all stages of preimplantation embryo development. Furthermore, the presence of CRH in the culture medium inhibits steroidogenesis by preantral mouse follicles cultured in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Dinopoulou
- Division of Human Reproduction, IVF Unit, First Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Alexandra Hospital, Athens University Medical School, 11528 Athens, Greece
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Dukic-Stefanovic S, Walther J, Wosch S, Zimmermann G, Wiedemann P, Alexander H, Claudepierre T. Chorionic gonadotropin and its receptor are both expressed in human retina, possible implications in normal and pathological conditions. PLoS One 2012; 7:e52567. [PMID: 23285091 PMCID: PMC3526580 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0052567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2012] [Accepted: 11/20/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Extra-gonadal role of gonadotropins has been re-evaluated over the last 20 years. In addition to pituitary secretion of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), the CNS has been clearly identified as a source of hCG acting locally to influence behaviour. Here we demonstrated that human retina is producing this gonadotropin that acts as a neuroactive molecule. Müller glial and retinal pigmented epithelial (RPE) cells are producing hCG that may affects neighbour cells expressing its receptor, namely cone photoreceptors. It was previously described that amacrine and retinal ganglion (RGC) cells are targets of the gonadotropin releasing hormone that control the secretion of all gonadotropins. Therefore our findings suggest that a complex neuroendocrine circuit exists in the retina, involving hCG secreting cells (glial and RPE), hCG targets (photoreceptors) and hCG-release controlling cells (amacrine and RGC). The exact physiological functions of this circuit have still to be identified, but the proliferation of photoreceptor-derived tumor induced by hCG demonstrated the need to control this neuroendocrine loop.
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MESH Headings
- Blotting, Western
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Cell Proliferation/drug effects
- Chorionic Gonadotropin, beta Subunit, Human/genetics
- Chorionic Gonadotropin, beta Subunit, Human/metabolism
- Chorionic Gonadotropin, beta Subunit, Human/pharmacology
- Gene Expression Regulation
- Humans
- Protein Transport
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Receptors, LH/metabolism
- Retina/metabolism
- Retina/pathology
- Retinoblastoma/metabolism
- Retinoblastoma/pathology
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jan Walther
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Sebastian Wosch
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Gerolf Zimmermann
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Human Reproduction and Endocrinology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Peter Wiedemann
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Henry Alexander
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Human Reproduction and Endocrinology, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Thomas Claudepierre
- Department of Ophthalmology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany
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43
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Li Z, Du L, Li C, Wu W. Human chorionic gonadotropin β induces cell motility via ERK1/2 and MMP-2 activation in human glioblastoma U87MG cells. J Neurooncol 2012; 111:237-44. [PMID: 23232806 DOI: 10.1007/s11060-012-1017-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2012] [Accepted: 12/03/2012] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Human chorionic gonadotropin β (hCGβ) promotes tumorigenesis in a variety of tumors including glioblastoma, breast and prostate cancer cells, etc. However, the involved mechanisms remain elusive. Distinct from the other tumors, glioblastoma is a highly invasive brain tumor; invasion causes high recurrence and mortality. Characterization of hCGβ signaling is to determine therapeutic targets to inhibit invasion and lower recurrence. Through both a stable cell line over-expressing hCGβ and hCGβ standards, we tested hCGβ signaling, migration and invasion in human glioblastoma U87MG cells. ELISA showed that hCGβ secreted into culture medium at an amount of 237.8 ± 7.8 ng/10(7) cells in hCGβ transfected stable cells after the cells were grown for 24 h. Through Western blot and Gelatin zymography, we found that hCGβ standards phosphorylated ERK1/2 and upregulated MMP-2 expression in dose- and time-dependent manners. Meanwhile, overexpressed hCGβ phosphorylated ERK1/2, and upregulated MMP-2 expression and activity, whereas ERK1/2 blocker PD98059 (25 μM) significantly decreased both ERK1/2 and MMP-2 expression and activity. In addition, in the same conditions as the signaling test, hCGβ promoted cell migration and invasion, whereas the PD98059 diminished these effects. These findings demonstrated that hCGβ phosphorylated ERK1/2 upregulating MMP-2 expression and activity leading to cell migration and invasion, suggesting that hCGβ, ERK1/2 and MMP-2 are the potential targets to inhibit glioblastoma invasion.
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MESH Headings
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Cell Movement/drug effects
- Cell Movement/physiology
- Chorionic Gonadotropin, beta Subunit, Human/genetics
- Chorionic Gonadotropin, beta Subunit, Human/metabolism
- Chorionic Gonadotropin, beta Subunit, Human/pharmacology
- Dose-Response Relationship, Drug
- Flavonoids/pharmacology
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic/drug effects
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic/physiology
- Glioblastoma/pathology
- Humans
- Matrix Metalloproteinase 2/metabolism
- Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 1/metabolism
- Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase 3/metabolism
- Phosphorylation
- Protein Kinase Inhibitors/pharmacology
- Transfection
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongwen Li
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health and Family Medicine, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100069, China
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Głodek A, Kubiczak M, Urbaniak P, Walkowiak G, Nowak-Markwitz E, Jankowska A. [Human chorionic gonadotropin--a well-known hormone with unknown functions]. Ginekol Pol 2012; 83:766-771. [PMID: 23383563] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Human chorionic gonadotropin (CG) belongs to the glycoprotein family consisting of LH, FSH and TSH. All of these hormones are composed of two subunits: common to the whole family alpha subunit and hormone-specific beta subunit CG has paracrine effects on several processes such as placentation, implantation, angiogenesis and delaying the apoptosis of corpus luteum. Serum level of CG is used to monitor pregnancy and pregnancy disorders. Recent studies have shown that the synthesis of CG is a characteristic feature of a wide variety of malignant and non-malignant tumors. The role of CG in cancerogensis remains unclear but the main hypothesis concerns its antiapoptotic impact of the hormone on the neoplastic cells. The synthesis of functional CG requires the activity of separate genes encoding both hormone's subunits, but it is the beta subunit accessibility which controls the process. The protein synthesis must be followed by proper folding and posttranslational modifications of the molecule. Particularly glycosylation of human chorionic gonadotropin was shown to have an impact on the hormone's function. The amount and the structure of carbohydrate residuals attached to CG may be different and lead to the formation of hormone variants, which vary in molecular mass. Normal CG with a molecular mass of about 37.5 kDa is produced by the syncytiotrophoblast, while the variant with higher molecular mass - 38.5-40 kDa, described as hyperglicosylated CG, is secreted by undifferentiated trophoblast cells and some cancers. It is suggested that those forms have different but complementary biological functions. However the mechanism of the action of particular variants and signaling pathways activated by those forms are still obscure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra Głodek
- Katedra i Zakład Biologii Komórki, Uniwersytet Medyczny im. Karola Marcinkowskiego w Poznaniu, ul. Rokietnika 5D, 60806 Poznań
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45
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Flores-Martín J, Rena V, Márquez S, Panzetta-Dutari GM, Genti-Raimondi S. StarD7 knockdown modulates ABCG2 expression, cell migration, proliferation, and differentiation of human choriocarcinoma JEG-3 cells. PLoS One 2012; 7:e44152. [PMID: 22952907 PMCID: PMC3430668 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0044152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2012] [Accepted: 07/30/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background StAR-related lipid transfer domain containing 7 (StarD7) is a member of the START-domain protein family whose function still remains unclear. Our data from an explorative microarray assay performed with mRNAs from StarD7 siRNA-transfected JEG-3 cells indicated that ABCG2 (ATP-binding cassette sub-family G member 2) was one of the most abundantly downregulated mRNAs. Methodology/Principal Findings Here, we have confirmed that knocking down StarD7 mRNA lead to a decrease in the xenobiotic/lipid transporter ABCG2 at both the mRNA and protein levels (−26.4% and −41%, p<0.05, at 48 h of culture, respectively). Also a concomitant reduction in phospholipid synthesis, bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) uptake and 3H-thymidine incorporation was detected. Wound healing and transwell assays revealed that JEG-3 cell migration was significantly diminished (p<0.05). Conversely, biochemical differentiation markers such as human chorionic gonadotrophin β-subunit (βhCG) protein synthesis and secretion as well as βhCG and syncytin-1 mRNAs were increased approximately 2-fold. In addition, desmoplakin immunostaining suggested that there was a reduction of intercellular desmosomes between adjacent JEG-3 cells after knocking down StarD7. Conclusions/Significance Altogether these findings provide evidence for a role of StarD7 in cell physiology indicating that StarD7 modulates ABCG2 multidrug transporter level, cell migration, proliferation, and biochemical and morphological differentiation marker expression in a human trophoblast cell model.
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MESH Headings
- ATP Binding Cassette Transporter, Subfamily G, Member 2
- ATP-Binding Cassette Transporters/genetics
- ATP-Binding Cassette Transporters/metabolism
- Biomarkers/metabolism
- Carrier Proteins/genetics
- Carrier Proteins/metabolism
- Cell Differentiation/genetics
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Cell Movement/genetics
- Cell Proliferation
- Choriocarcinoma/genetics
- Choriocarcinoma/pathology
- Chorionic Gonadotropin, beta Subunit, Human/genetics
- Chorionic Gonadotropin, beta Subunit, Human/metabolism
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
- Gene Knockdown Techniques
- Gene Products, env/genetics
- Gene Products, env/metabolism
- Gene Silencing
- Giant Cells/metabolism
- Humans
- Neoplasm Proteins/genetics
- Neoplasm Proteins/metabolism
- Phospholipids/biosynthesis
- Pregnancy Proteins/genetics
- Pregnancy Proteins/metabolism
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- RNA, Small Interfering/metabolism
- Up-Regulation/genetics
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Affiliation(s)
- Jésica Flores-Martín
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Viviana Rena
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Sebastián Márquez
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Graciela M. Panzetta-Dutari
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - Susana Genti-Raimondi
- Centro de Investigaciones en Bioquímica Clínica e Inmunología-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Departamento de Bioquímica Clínica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Córdoba, Argentina
- * E-mail:
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Attia S, Ben-Nun A, Rabin T, Peled N. [Ectopic pregnancy as a presenting symptom for lung cancer]. Harefuah 2012; 151:398-436. [PMID: 23002689] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
This article describes a rare presentation of squamous cell carcinoma of the lung, mimicking an ectopic pregnancy secreting beta-hCG protein in a 47 year old female smoker, who was treated with Methotrexate and subsequently curettage, tubectomy and right ovariectomy, because of suspected hydatidiform mole. This document presents a rare and chaotic case of lung cancer and reviews the differential diagnosis of an increased level of the beta-hCG marker and the therapeutic approach to these cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shani Attia
- Thoracic Cancer Research and Detection Center, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel
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Cole LA, Butler S. Hyperglycosylated hCG, hCGβ and Hyperglycosylated hCGβ: interchangeable cancer promoters. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2012; 349:232-8. [PMID: 22101319 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2011.10.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [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] [Received: 07/27/2011] [Revised: 10/26/2011] [Accepted: 10/26/2011] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Several groups are researching cancers, and showing that hCGβ is a promoter of cancer growth and malignancy. Recent research shows that some hCGβ is present as Hyperglycosylated hCGβ. Other groups studied Hyperglycosylated hCG as a promoter of choriocarcinoma and germ cell malignancies. The question therefore arises, are Hyperglycosylated hCG, hCGβ and Hyperglycosylated hCGβ interrelated or interchangable promoters of cancer? METHODS The actions of Hyperglycosylated hCGβ, hCGβ and Hyperglycosylated hCG are investigated in 7 cell lines, Jar and JEG-3 choriocarcinoma cell lines, NTERA germ cell cancer line, SCaBER and T24 bladder epithelial carcinoma lines, KLE and Hec-1-a endometrial adenocarcinoma and epithelial carcinoma cell lines. Actions of promoters on cell growth are investigated. RESULTS The actions of Hyperglycosylated hCG, hCGβ and Hyperglycosylated hCGβ appear to be interchangeable in all cell lines investigated. DISCUSSION All hCG-related cancer promoters seem interrelated, working through a similar mechanism, antagonism of apoptosis through know receptors such as TGFβ receptors in all cancers studied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurence A Cole
- USA hCG Reference Service, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Health Sciences Center MSC10-5580, 1 University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM 87104, USA.
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48
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Crochet P, Agostini A. Prognostic value of human chorionic gonadotropin levels 4 days after a single dose of methotrexate for ectopic pregnancy. BJOG 2012; 119:506; author reply 506-7. [PMID: 22324925 DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-0528.2011.03243.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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49
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Rakhmanova IV, Dreval' AA, Mamchenko SI, Astashkina OG, Stoliarova EP, Matroskin AG. [Clinical and anatomical features of the middle ear in the premature infants at different gestational time]. Vestn Otorinolaringol 2012:27-30. [PMID: 23250521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
The objective of the present study was to analyse anatomical features of the middle ear in the premature infants of different gestational age. Materials from 100 still-born and live-born babies (200 temporal bones) were available for the investigation. The study has revealed a number of distinctive clinical and morphological peculiarities in the structure of tympanic membranes in both the prematurely born infants depending on the gestational age and in the full-term babies. The fluid from the tympanic cavity was found to contain human beta-chorionic gonadotropin.
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50
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review summarizes our current understanding of the role of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)/GnRH receptor (GnRHR) signaling at the maternal-fetal interface. RECENT FINDINGS Several isoforms of GnRH and GnRHR are described. The hypothalamic decapeptide, GnRH-I, binds to the anterior pituitary and induces the synthesis and secretion of luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone. It is also found in extrahypothalamic sites. A second isoform, GnRH-II, acts both in the hypothalamus and other organ systems, including placenta, breast, endometrium, and ovary. Although several putative isoforms of GnRHR have been identified, it is clear that, in humans, both GnRH-I and GnRH-II signal through a single receptor, GnRHR-I. GnRH-I, GnRH-II, and GnRHR-I mRNA and protein have been identified in placenta and regulate the β-subunit of human chorionic gonadotropin production, which is essential for the maintenance of early pregnancy. They may also play a role in the autocrine/paracrine regulation of trophoblast invasion through extracellular matrix remodeling. SUMMARY GnRH-I and GnRH-II have multiple extrapituitary roles. In placenta, they bind to GnRHR-I to stimulate the production of β-subunit of human chorionic gonadotropin. They may also play a role in trophoblast invasion. A better understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in GnRH/GnRHR signaling at the maternal-fetal interface may identify novel roles for GnRH agonists/antagonists in the prevention or treatment of hormonally mediated diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten Sasaki
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Tufts Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts 02111, USA
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