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Zhou Y, Li X, Zhang X, Li M, Luo N, Zhao Y. Screening of Candidate Housekeeping Genes in Uterus Caruncle by RNA-Sequence and qPCR Analyses in Different Stages of Goat ( Capra hircus). Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:1897. [PMID: 37370406 DOI: 10.3390/ani13121897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/29/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The uterus is a critical pregnancy organ for mammals. The normal growth and development of ruminant uterus caruncles are crucial to maintain gestation and fetal health in goats. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) is a reliable tool to study gene expression profiling for exploring the intrinsic mechanism underlying the conversion process of uterus caruncle tissue. However, the candidate housekeeping genes (HKGs) are required for normalizing the expression of function genes. In our study, 22 HKGs were selected from analyzing transcriptome data at non-pregnancy and pregnancy processes and previous reports about HKGs in goat tissues. We assessed them for expression suitability in 24 samples from uterus tissues at 15 non-pregnant days (Stage 1), early (Stage 2), and medium-later pregnant days (Stage 3). The expression stability of these genes was evaluated by using geNorm, Normfinder, Bestkeeper, and Delta Ct algorithms and, comprehensively, by ReFinder. In addition, the most and least stable HKGs were used to normalize the target genes expression of SPP1, VEGFA, and PAG8. It was found that traditional reference genes, such as ACTB and GAPDH, were not suitable for target gene normalization. In contrast, PPIB selected from RNA sequencing data and EIF3K selected from previous references showed the least variation and were recommended as the best HKGs during the nonpregnant stage and the whole stages of goat uterus caruncle tissue, respectively. It is the first time the HKGs genes in uterus during the non-pregnant day and throughout the total pregnancy have been explored. These findings found suitable HKGs in uterus caruncle tissues at various stages of non-pregnancy and pregnancy; these can be useful for gene expression studies to reveal the molecular mechanisms of uterus development in goats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumei Zhou
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Herbivore Science, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage and Herbivore, Chongqing Engineering Research Center for Herbivores Resource Protection and Utilization, Chongqing Herbivore Engineering Research Center, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Xingchun Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Herbivore Science, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage and Herbivore, Chongqing Engineering Research Center for Herbivores Resource Protection and Utilization, Chongqing Herbivore Engineering Research Center, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Xinyue Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Herbivore Science, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage and Herbivore, Chongqing Engineering Research Center for Herbivores Resource Protection and Utilization, Chongqing Herbivore Engineering Research Center, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Minghui Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Herbivore Science, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage and Herbivore, Chongqing Engineering Research Center for Herbivores Resource Protection and Utilization, Chongqing Herbivore Engineering Research Center, Chongqing 400715, China
| | - Nanjian Luo
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Herbivore Science, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage and Herbivore, Chongqing Engineering Research Center for Herbivores Resource Protection and Utilization, Chongqing Herbivore Engineering Research Center, Chongqing 400715, China
- School of Preclinical Medicine, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563000, China
| | - Yongju Zhao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Southwest University, Chongqing 400715, China
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Herbivore Science, Chongqing Key Laboratory of Forage and Herbivore, Chongqing Engineering Research Center for Herbivores Resource Protection and Utilization, Chongqing Herbivore Engineering Research Center, Chongqing 400715, China
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Vashistha A, Khan HR. Role of intraluteal and intrauterine prostaglandin signaling in LH-induced luteolysis in pregnant rats. Mol Reprod Dev 2023; 90:260-271. [PMID: 36866418 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 03/04/2023]
Abstract
Luteal dysfunctions lead to fertility disorders and pregnancy complications. Normal luteal function is regulated by many factors, including luteinizing hormone (LH). The luteotropic roles of LH have been widely investigated but its role in the process of luteolysis has received little attention. LH has been shown to have luteolytic effects during pregnancy in rats and the role of intraluteal prostaglandins (PGs) in LH-mediated luteolysis has been demonstrated by others. However, the status of PG signaling in the uterus during LH-mediated luteolysis remains unexplored. In this study, we utilized the repeated LH administration (4×LH) model for luteolysis induction. We have examined the effect of LH-mediated luteolysis on the expression of genes involved in luteal/uterine PG synthesis, luteal PGF2α signaling, and uterine activation during different stages (mid and late) of pregnancy. Further, we analyzed the effect of overall PG synthesis machinery blockage on LH-mediated luteolysis during late pregnancy. Unlike the midstage of pregnancy, the expression of genes involved in PG synthesis, PGF2α signaling, and uterine activation in late-stage pregnant rats' luteal and uterine tissue increase 4×LH. Since the cAMP/PKA pathway mediates LH-mediated luteolysis, we analyzed the effect of inhibition of endogenous PG synthesis on the cAMP/PKA/CREB pathway, followed by the analysis of the expression of markers of luteolysis. Inhibition of endogenous PG synthesis did not affect the cAMP/PKA/CREB pathway. However, in the absence of endogenous PGs, luteolysis could not be activated to the full extent. Our results suggest that endogenous PGs may contribute to LH-mediated luteolysis, but this dependency on endogenous PGs is pregnancy-stage dependent. These findings advance our understanding of the molecular pathways that regulate luteolysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshi Vashistha
- Department of Molecular Reproduction, Development and Genetics, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India
| | - Habibur Rahaman Khan
- Department of Molecular Reproduction, Development and Genetics, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, India.,Department of Safety Assessment, Adgyl LifeSciences Private Limited, Bangalore, Karnataka
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Kramer AC, Erikson DW, McLendon BA, Seo H, Hayashi K, Spencer TE, Bazer FW, Burghardt RC, Johnson GA. SPP1 expression in the mouse uterus and placenta: Implications for implantation. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:892-904. [PMID: 34165144 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 05/10/2021] [Accepted: 06/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Secreted phosphoprotein 1 [SPP1, also known as osteopontin (OPN)] binds integrins to mediate cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix communication to promote cell adhesion, migration, and differentiation. Considerable evidence links SPP1 to pregnancy in several species. Current evidence suggests that SPP1 is involved in implantation and placentation in mice, but in vivo localization of SPP1 and in vivo mechanistic studies to substantiate these roles are incomplete and contradictory. We localized Spp1 mRNA and protein in the endometrium and placenta of mice throughout gestation, and utilized delayed implantation of mouse blastocysts to link SPP1 expression to the implantation chamber. Spp1 mRNA and protein localized to the endometrial luminal (LE), but not glandular epithelia (GE) in interimplantation regions of the uterus throughout gestation. Spp1 mRNA and protein also localized to uterine naturel killer (uNK) cells of the decidua. Within the implantation chamber, Spp1 mRNA localized only to intermittent LE cells, and to the inner cell mass. SPP1 protein localized to intermittent trophoblast cells, and to the parietal endoderm. These results suggest that SPP1: 1) is secreted by the LE at interimplantation sites for closure of the uterine lumen to form the implantation chamber; 2) is secreted by LE adjacent to the attaching trophoblast cells for attachment and invasion of the blastocyst; and 3) is not a component of histotroph secreted from the GE, but is secreted from uNK cells in the decidua to increase angiogenesis within the decidua to augment hemotrophic support of embryonic/fetal development of the conceptus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avery C Kramer
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, College Station, TX, USA
| | - David W Erikson
- Endocrine Technologies Core, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | - Bryan A McLendon
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Heewon Seo
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Kanako Hayashi
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
| | - Thomas E Spencer
- Department of Animal Science, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Fuller W Bazer
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Robert C Burghardt
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Greg A Johnson
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, College Station, TX, USA
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Klein C. Novel equine conceptus?endometrial interactions on Day 16 of pregnancy based on RNA sequencing. Reprod Fertil Dev 2015; 28:RD14489. [PMID: 25940503 DOI: 10.1071/rd14489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2014] [Accepted: 04/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Maintenance of pregnancy is dependent on the exchange of signals between the conceptus and the endometrium. The objective of this study was to use next-generation sequencing to determine transcriptome blueprints of the conceptus and endometrium 16 days after ovulation in the horse. There were 7760 and 10 182 genes expressed in the conceptus and endometrium, respectively, of which 7029 were present in both. Genes related to developmental processes were enriched among conceptus-specific transcripts, whereas many endometrium-specific genes had known roles in cell communication, cell adhesion and response to stimuli. The integrin signalling pathway was overrepresented in both transcriptomes. In that regard, it was hypothesised that integrins ITGA5B1 and ITGAVB3 interact with conceptus-derived fibrinogen, potentially contributing to cessation of conceptus mobility. That several growth factors and their corresponding receptors (e.g. HDGF, NOV, CYR61, CTGF, HBEGF) were expressed by conceptus and endometrium were attributed to cross-talk. In addition, Cytoscape interaction analysis revealed a plethora of interactions between genes expressed by the conceptus and endometrium, during a period when the former had substantial movement within the uterus. This is the first report of concurrent transcriptome analysis of conceptus and endometrium in the mare, with numerous findings to provide rationale for further investigation.
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Johnson GA, Burghardt RC, Bazer FW. Osteopontin: a leading candidate adhesion molecule for implantation in pigs and sheep. J Anim Sci Biotechnol 2014; 5:56. [PMID: 25671104 PMCID: PMC4322467 DOI: 10.1186/2049-1891-5-56] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2014] [Accepted: 11/25/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Osteopontin (OPN; also known as Secreted Phosphoprotein 1, SPP1) is a secreted extra-cellular matrix (ECM) protein that binds to a variety of cell surface integrins to stimulate cell-cell and cell-ECM adhesion and communication. It is generally accepted that OPN interacts with apically expressed integrin receptors on the uterine luminal epithelium (LE) and conceptus trophectoderm to attach the conceptus to the uterus for implantation. Research conducted with pigs and sheep has significantly advanced understanding of the role(s) of OPN during implantation through exploitation of the prolonged peri-implantation period of pregnancy when elongating conceptuses are free within the uterine lumen requiring extensive paracrine signaling between conceptus and endometrium. This is followed by a protracted and incremental attachment cascade of trophectoderm to uterine LE during implantation, and development of a true epitheliochorial or synepitheliochorial placenta exhibited by pigs and sheep, respectively. In pigs, implanting conceptuses secrete estrogens which induce the synthesis and secretion of OPN in adjacent uterine LE. OPN then binds to αvβ6 integrin receptors on trophectoderm, and the αvβ3 integrin receptors on uterine LE to bridge conceptus attachment to uterine LE for implantation. In sheep, implanting conceptuses secrete interferon tau that prolongs the lifespan of CL. Progesterone released by CL then induces OPN synthesis and secretion from the endometrial GE into the uterine lumen where OPN binds integrins expressed on trophectoderm (αvβ3) and uterine LE (identity of specific integrins unknown) to adhere the conceptus to the uterus for implantation. OPN binding to the αvβ3 integrin receptor on ovine trophectoderm cells induces in vitro focal adhesion assembly, a prerequisite for adhesion and migration of trophectoderm, through activation of: 1) P70S6K via crosstalk between FRAP1/MTOR and MAPK pathways; 2) MTOR, PI3K, MAPK3/MAPK1 (Erk1/2) and MAPK14 (p38) signaling to stimulate trohectoderm cell migration; and 3) focal adhesion assembly and myosin II motor activity to induce migration of trophectoderm cells. Further large in vivo focal adhesions assemble at the uterine-placental interface of both pigs and sheep and identify the involvement of sizable mechanical forces at this interface during discrete periods of trophoblast migration, attachment and placentation in both species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greg A Johnson
- />Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-4458 USA
| | - Robert C Burghardt
- />Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-4458 USA
| | - Fuller W Bazer
- />Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843 USA
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Zhu F, Shen F, Fan Y, Xie Y, Xia Y, Kong Y. Osteopontin increases the expression of β1, 4-galactosyltransferase-I and promotes adhesion in human RL95-2 cells. Glycoconj J 2012; 29:347-56. [PMID: 22847114 DOI: 10.1007/s10719-012-9426-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2012] [Revised: 06/14/2012] [Accepted: 06/25/2012] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Beta1, 4-Galactosyltransferase-I (β1, 4-GalT-I), which transfers galactose from UDP-Gal to N-acetylglucosamine and N-acetylglucosamine-terminated oligosaccharides of N- and O-linked glycans in a β(1-4) linkage, plays a critical role in cell adhesion, sperm-egg recognition, neurite growth, and tumor cell migration and invasion. Our previously experiments also show that β1, 4-GalT-I was up-regulated by estrogens and some important cytokines of embryo implantation especially Interleukin-1 (IL-1), TGF-α and Leukemia Inhibitory Factor (LIF) in endometrial cells. In the receptive phase human uterus, osteopontin (OPN) is the most highly up-regulated extracellular matrix/adhesion molecule/cytokine. In this study, we demonstrated the correlated expression of OPN and β1, 4-GalT-I in endometrium during early pregnancy, and recombinant human OPN (rhOPN) protein induced the β1, 4-GalT-I up-regulation in RL95-2 cells. Inhibition of MEK/ERK, PI3K/AKT and NF-κB suppressed rhOPN-induced β1, 4-GalT-I expression. In addition, rhOPN promoted the adhesion of blastocysts cells in vitro in β1, 4-GalT-I-dependent manner. Moreover, the adhesion is greatly inhibited when β1, 4-GalT-I was blocked with the specific antibody. Taken together, our data suggest that β1, 4-GalT-I provides a mechanism to bridge embryo to endometrium during implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feixin Zhu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Dalian Medical University, Dalian, Liaoning Provincial, China
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Buommino E, De Filippis A, Gaudiello F, Balato A, Balato N, Tufano MA, Ayala F. Modification of osteopontin and MMP-9 levels in patients with psoriasis on anti-TNF-α therapy. Arch Dermatol Res 2012; 304:481-5. [PMID: 22684781 DOI: 10.1007/s00403-012-1251-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2012] [Revised: 05/16/2012] [Accepted: 05/22/2012] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Psoriasis is a chronic skin inflammatory disease in which a pleiotropic cytokine, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), plays a central role, as demonstrated by the clinical success of anti-TNF-α therapy. Among the multiple effects of TNF-α on keratinocytes, the induction of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), a collagenase implicated in joint inflammation, might be one of the key mechanisms in psoriasis pathogenesis. Interestingly, MMP-9 expression can be enhanced also by osteopontin (OPN), a glycosylated protein whose levels are increased in skin and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) of psoriasis patients. The aim of the current study is to investigate the relationship between OPN, MMP-9 and TNF-α in psoriasis. Our survey identified high levels of both OPN and MMP-9 in PBMC as well as skin of psoriatic patients with respect to healthy controls. Significant reduction of OPN and MMP-9 levels in PBMC, plasma and lesional skin of psoriasis patients was observed after 24 weeks of anti-TNF-α therapy. Moreover, OPN and MMP-9 were enhanced by TNF-α and down-regulated by anti-TNF-α treatment in healthy PBMC. These findings may suggest that OPN and MMP-9 may be regulated by TNF-α, indicating a possible role in the pathogenesis of psoriasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Buommino
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Section of Microbiology and Clinical Microbiology, SUN, Naples, Italy
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9
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Buback F, Renkl AC, Schulz G, Weiss JM. Osteopontin and the skin: multiple emerging roles in cutaneous biology and pathology. Exp Dermatol 2009; 18:750-9. [PMID: 19558497 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0625.2009.00926.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Osteopontin (OPN) is a glycoprotein expressed by various tissues and cells. The existence of variant forms of OPN as a secreted (sOPN) and intracellular (iOPN) protein and its modification through post-translational modification and proteolytic cleavage explain its broad range of functions. There is increasing knowledge which receptors OPN isoforms can bind to and which signaling pathways are activated to mediate different OPN functions. sOPN interacts with integrins and CD44, mediates cell adhesion, migration and tumor invasion, and has T helper 1 (Th1) cytokine functions and anti-apoptotic effects. iOPN has been described to regulate macrophage migration and interferon-alpha secretion in plasmacytoid dendritic cells. Both sOPN and iOPN, through complex functions for different dendritic cell subsets, participate in the regulation of Th cell lineages, among them Th17 cells. For skin disease, OPN from immune cells and tumor cells is of pathophysiological relevance. OPN is secreted in autoimmune diseases such as lupus erythematosus, and influences inflammation of immediate and delayed type allergies and granuloma formation. We describe that OPN is overexpressed in psoriasis and propose a model to study OPN function in psoriatic inflammation. Through cytokine functions, OPN supports immune responses against Mycobacteria and viruses such as herpes simplex virus. OPN is also implicated in skin tumor progression. Overexpression of OPN influences invasion and metastasis of melanoma and squamous cell carcinoma cells, and OPN expression in melanoma is a possible prognostic marker. As OPN protein preparations and anti-OPN antibodies may be available in the near future, in-depth knowledge of OPN functions may open new therapeutic approaches for skin diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Buback
- Department of Dermatology and Allergology, University of Ulm, Ulm, Germany
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McEwan M, Lins RJ, Munro SK, Vincent ZL, Ponnampalam AP, Mitchell MD. Cytokine regulation during the formation of the fetal-maternal interface: focus on cell-cell adhesion and remodelling of the extra-cellular matrix. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2009; 20:241-9. [PMID: 19487153 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2009.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The establishment of human pregnancy requires the orchestration of substantial cell differentiation and tissue remodelling processes in the context of a complex dialogue between the receptive endometrium and the implanting blastocyst, and is therefore dependent upon a complex sequence of signalling events. Cytokines play an important role in each step of implantation, modulating expression of adhesion molecules on both the fetal and maternal surfaces, regulating expression of the proteases that remodel the extra-cellular matrix, and promoting invasion and differentiation of trophoblasts. Here we review the role of cytokines in regulating the establishment of the fetal-maternal interface, with a particular focus on regulation of the functional expression of CAMs, the ECM and of the proteinases that modulate their function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miranda McEwan
- The Liggins Institute and National Research Centre for Growth and Reproduction, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
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Burnum KE, Tranguch S, Mi D, Daikoku T, Dey SK, Caprioli RM. Imaging mass spectrometry reveals unique protein profiles during embryo implantation. Endocrinology 2008; 149:3274-8. [PMID: 18403475 PMCID: PMC2453082 DOI: 10.1210/en.2008-0309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
A reciprocal interaction between the implantation-competent blastocyst and receptive uterus is an absolute requirement for implantation, a process crucial for pregnancy success. A comprehensive understanding of this interaction has yet to be realized. One major difficulty in clearly defining this discourse is the complexity of the implantation process involving heterogeneous cell types of both the uterus and blastocyst, each endowed with unique molecular signatures that show dynamic changes during the course of pregnancy. Whereas gene expression studies by in situ hybridization or immunohistochemistry have shown differential expression patterns of specific genes during implantation, there is no report how numerous signaling proteins are spatially displayed at specific times and stages of implantation in the context of blastocyst-uterine juxtaposition. Using in situ imaging (matrix assisted laser desorption/ionization) mass spectrometry directly on uterine sections, here we provide molecular composition, relative abundance, and spatial distribution of a large number of proteins during the periimplantation period. This approach has allowed us for the first time to generate in situ proteome profiles of implantation and interimplantation sites in mice in a region- and stage-specific manner with the progression of implantation. This application is reliable because patterns of expression of several proteins displayed by in situ imaging mass spectrometry correlate well with in situ hybridization results. More interestingly, the use of this approach has provided new insights regarding uterine biology of cytosolic phospholipase A(2alpha) null females that show implantation defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin E Burnum
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Mass Spectrometry Research Center, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, MCN D4100, 1161 21st Avenue South, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
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Herington JL, Bany BM. The conceptus increases secreted phosphoprotein 1 gene expression in the mouse uterus during the progression of decidualization mainly due to its effects on uterine natural killer cells. Reproduction 2007; 133:1213-21. [PMID: 17636175 PMCID: PMC2613481 DOI: 10.1530/rep-07-0085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Within the mouse endometrium, secreted phosphoprotein 1 (SPP1) gene expression is mainly expressed in the luminal epithelium and some macrophages around the onset of implantation. However, during the progression of decidualization, it is expressed mainly in the mesometrial decidua. To date, the precise cell types responsible for the expression in the mesometrial decidua has not been absolutely identified. The goal of the present study was to assess the expression of SPP1 in uteri of pregnant mice (decidua) during the progression of decidualization and compared it with those undergoing artificially induced decidualization (deciduoma). Significantly (P<0.05) greater steady-state levels of SPP1 mRNA were seen in the decidua when compared with deciduoma. Further, in the decidua, the majority of the SPP1 protein was localized within a subpopulation of granulated uterine natural killer (uNK) cells but not co-localized to their granules. However, in addition to being localized to uNK cells, SPP1 protein was also detected in another cell type(s) that were not epidermal growth factor-like containing mucin-like hormone receptor-like sequence 1 protein-positive immune cells that are known to be present in the uterus at this time. Finally, decidual SPP1 expression dramatically decreased in uteri of interleukin-15-deficient mice that lack uNK cells. In conclusion, SPP1 expression is greater in the mouse decidua when compared with the deciduoma after the onset of implantation during the progression of decidualization. Finally, uNK cells were found to be the major source of SPP1 in the pregnant uterus during decidualization. SPP1 might play a key role in uNK killer cell functions in the uterus during decidualization.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Brent M. Bany
- Corresponding Author: Brent M. Bany, Ph.D., Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, IL, 62901, Telephone: (618) 453-1596, Fax: (618) 453-1517,
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White FJ, Burghardt RC, Hu J, Joyce MM, Spencer TE, Johnson GA. Secreted phosphoprotein 1 (osteopontin) is expressed by stromal macrophages in cyclic and pregnant endometrium of mice, but is induced by estrogen in luminal epithelium during conceptus attachment for implantation. Reproduction 2007; 132:919-29. [PMID: 17127752 DOI: 10.1530/rep-06-0068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Secreted phosphoprotein 1 (SPP1, osteopontin) is the most highly upregulated extracellular matrix/adhesion molecule/cytokine in the receptive phase human uterus, and Spp1 null mice manifest decreased pregnancy rates during mid-gestation as compared with wild-type counterparts. We hypothesize that Spp1 is required for proliferation, migration, survival, adhesion, and remodeling of cells at the conceptus-maternal interface. Our objective was to define the temporal/spatial distribution and steroid regulation of Spp1 in mouse uterus during estrous cycle and early gestation. In situ hybridization localized Spp1 to luminal epithelium (LE) and immune cells. LE expression was prominent at proestrus, decreased by estrus, and was nearly undetectable at diestrus. During pregnancy, Spp1 mRNA was not detected in LE until day 4.5 (day 1 = vaginal plug). Spp1-expressing immune cells were scattered within the endometrial stroma throughout the estrous cycle and early pregnancy. Immunoreactive Spp1 was prominent at the apical LE surface by day 4.5 of pregnancy and Spp1 protein was also co-localized with subsets of CD45-positive (leukocytes) and F4/80-positive (macrophages) cells. In ovariectomized mice, estrogen, but not progesterone, induced Spp1 mRNA, whereas estrogen plus progesterone did not induce Spp1 in LE. These results establish that estrogen regulates Spp1 in mouse LE and are the first to identify macrophages that produce Spp1 within the peri-implantation endometrium of any species. We suggest that Spp1 at the apical surface of LE provides a mechanism to bridge conceptus to LE during implantation, and that Spp1-positive macrophages within the stroma may be involved in uterine remodeling for conceptus invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frankie J White
- Center for Animal Biotechnology and Genomics, Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
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Spötter A, Distl O. Genetic approaches to the improvement of fertility traits in the pig. Vet J 2006; 172:234-47. [PMID: 16426876 DOI: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2005.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/25/2005] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
One of the major determinants for litter size in pigs is prenatal mortality. It occurs most frequently during the first few weeks of gestation and can be attributed to abnormalities in developmental processes during embryogenesis including trophoblastic elongation and blastocyst implantation. Improvement of litter size has been attempted by means of phenotypic selection. However, another promising approach in pursuit of this aim has been the use of genotypic information. Reproductive traits in general are well-suited for application of marker-assisted selection (MAS). The possibility of exerting selection criteria at the molecular level shortens the generation interval as the selection decision can take place early in the life of an animal. Moreover, in consideration of the sex-limited nature of reproductive traits, genotypic information allows for selection in the gender in which the trait cannot be directly observed. Accordingly, there has been considerable interest in mapping and identifying genes involved in the regulation of reproductive traits and in elucidating their expression patterns. This review offers a comprehensive, if not exhaustive, account of the efforts being made and the approaches currently used in this field. One approach has been to choose candidate genes a priori because of the physiological importance of the proteins they encode and their role in the reproduction of other mammals. The usefulness of candidate genes is then examined by association studies between genetic polymorphisms identified in the respective candidate genes and the phenotypic reproductive traits. The other approach discussed uses pre-existing or designed families for linkage analyses in order to map the location of quantitative trait loci (QTL) for the reproductive trait of interest. The results reported were not consistent among different studies but the QTL regions detected may be useful for identification of positional candidate genes in further molecular genetic studies. However, a better understanding of porcine reproduction requires that these functional genomic approaches are merged and integrated with detailed analyses of the proteome to establish linkages between predisposition and physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Spötter
- Institute of Animal Breeding and Genetics, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Bünteweg 17p, 30559 Hannover, Germany.
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15
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Lafond J, Simoneau L. Calcium Homeostasis in Human Placenta: Role of Calcium‐Handling Proteins. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CYTOLOGY 2006; 250:109-74. [PMID: 16861065 DOI: 10.1016/s0074-7696(06)50004-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The human placenta is a transitory organ, representing during pregnancy the unique connection between the mother and her fetus. The syncytiotrophoblast represents the specialized unit in the placenta that is directly involved in fetal nutrition, mainly involving essential nutrients, such as lipids, amino acids, and calcium. This ion is of particular interest since it is actively transported by the placenta throughout pregnancy and is associated with many roles during intrauterine life. At term, the human fetus has accumulated about 25-30 g of calcium. This transfer allows adequate fetal growth and development, since calcium is vital for fetal skeleton mineralization and many cellular functions, such as signal transduction, neurotransmitter release, and cellular growth. Thus, there are many proteins involved in calcium homeostasis in the human placenta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Lafond
- Laboratoire de Physiologie Materno Foetale, Centre de recherche BioMed, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, Canada, H3C 3P8
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16
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Yang YJ, Liu WM, Zhou JX, Cao YJ, Li J, Peng S, Wang L, Yuan JG, Duan EK. Expression and hormonal regulation of calcyclin-binding protein (CacyBP) in the mouse uterus during early pregnancy. Life Sci 2005; 78:753-60. [PMID: 16289137 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2005.05.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2005] [Accepted: 05/16/2005] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
Calcyclin-binding protein (Siah-1-Interacting Protein, CacyBP/SIP), is a calcium signaling protein involved in the degradation of beta-catenin, however, little is known about its role in reproductive biology. The present study was to character its temporospatial expression pattern and regulation in mouse uterus and to investigate whether it plays a role in the regulation of normal endometrial events. While prominently expressed in both luminal and glandular epithelia, CacyBP underwent dynamic changes during early pregnancy. CacyBP expression was observed weakly from days 1-4. An intense accumulation in luminal and glandular epithelia as well as decidua surrounding the embryo at later stages (days 5-7) was observed. Most notably, CacyBP accumulation in trophoblast was pronounced at day 7. Using ovariectomized and pseudopregnant mice, we found that progesterone (P(4)) and 17beta-estradiol (E(2)) led to increased expression of CacyBP gene and this could be abolished by Ru486 and tamoxifen, respectively. Antisense oligonucleotides (ODNs) against CacyBP significantly inhibited cultured endometrial stromal cells' (ESCs) apoptosis induced by UV irradiation. Injection of antisense ODNs into mouse uterine horn severely impaired the number of implanted blastocysts. Taken together, our results suggested that CacyBP expression was positively regulated by P(4) and E(2). CacyBP may be involved in the regulation of endometrial cell apoptosis during early pregnancy and play an important role in mouse endometrial events such as pregrancy establishment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Jun Yang
- State Key Laboratory Reproduction Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100080, China
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17
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Joyce MM, González JF, Lewis S, Woldesenbet S, Burghardt RC, Newton GR, Johnson GA. Caprine uterine and placental osteopontin expression is distinct among epitheliochorial implanting species. Placenta 2005; 26:160-70. [PMID: 15708117 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2004.05.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/17/2004] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Osteopontin (OPN) is the most highly up-regulated extracellular matrix/adhesion molecule in the uterus of humans and domestic animals as it becomes receptive to implantation. Studies in sheep and pigs have shown that OPN is a component of ovine and porcine histotroph characterized by a complex temporal and spatial pattern of uterine and conceptus expression involving immune, epithelial, and stromal cells. It is proposed that these expression events are orchestrated to contribute to conceptus attachment and placentation. However, differences in OPN expression between sheep and pigs have been detected that relate to differences in placentation. Therefore, this study examined OPN expression in the caprine uterus and conceptus to gain insight into mechanisms underlying OPN function(s) during pregnancy through comparative analysis of differences in placentation between pigs, sheep, and goats. Goats were hysterectomized (n = 5/day) on Days 5, 11, 13, 15, 17 or 19 of the estrous cycle, and Days 5, 11, 13, 15, 17, 19 or 25 of pregnancy. Slot-blot hybridization showed increases in endometrial OPN mRNA beginning on Day 17 of the estrous cycle and Day 19 of pregnancy. In situ hybridization localized OPN mRNA to endometrial glandular epithelium (GE), Day 25 myometrium, and cells scattered within the placenta hypothesized to be immune. Immunofluorescence microscopy detected OPN protein on the apical surface of endometrial lumenal epithelium (LE), in GE, and on conceptus (Tr). Western blot analysis detected primarily the native 70-kDa OPN protein in endometrial extracts from the estrous cycle and pregnancy, as well as in uterine flushings from pregnant goats. Co-induction of OPN and alpha-smooth muscle actin, but not desmin proteins, was observed in uterine stroma by Day 25 of pregnancy. OPN in cyclic GE, Day 25 myometrium, and desmin-negative endometrial stroma is unique and reflects subtle differences among superficial implanting species that correlate with the depth of Tr invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- M M Joyce
- Department of Veterinary Anatomy and Public Health, Center for Animal Biotechnology and Genomics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
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18
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Okawa T, Asano K, Takahashi H, Hashimoto S, Anbe H, Sato A, Gafield RE. Expression of iNOS mRNA and inhibitory effect of NO on uterine contractile activity in rats are determined by local rather than systemic factors of pregnancy. J Pharmacol Sci 2005; 95:349-54. [PMID: 15272211 DOI: 10.1254/jphs.fpj04003x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Our purpose was to investigate whether the local or systemic factors of pregnancy are associated with inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) mRNA expression and to determine the inhibitory effects of pharmacological agents that increase cGMP levels in rat myometrium. iNOS mRNA expression was determined in uterine tissues from nonpregnant rats and on day 17 of gestation in the pregnant and non-pregnant uterine horns by RT-PCR. In addition, uterine rings from the pregnant and non-pregnant uterine horns were placed in Krebs-Henseleit solution for isometric recordings of spontaneous contractions. Concentration-inhibition relationships to diethylamine/nitric oxide complex, 8-bromo-cGMP, and the selective phosphodiesterase V inhibitor were obtained. Compared to nonpregnant rats, expression of iNOS mRNA in myometrium increased during pregnancy, which was maximal on day 17, followed by a decrease on day 21 of gestation. Expression of iNOS mRNA at day 17 of gestation was greater in pregnant uterine horns than in nonpregnant ones. Maximal inhibition of phosphodiesterase V and increasing cGMP induced similar inhibition of spontaneous contractions in nonpregnant and pregnant uterine horns, while NO induced less inhibition in the former. The results suggest that the local pregnancy factor is needed for signal transduction from NO to soluble guanylate cyclase at a time when maximal expression of iNOS mRNA is evident.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshiaki Okawa
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima 960-1295, Japan.
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19
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Asano K, Okawa T, Matsuoka I, Suzuki Y, Sato A. Effects of sex steroids on expression of adenylyl cyclase messenger RNA in rat uterus. J Endocrinol Invest 2005; 28:357-62. [PMID: 15966510 DOI: 10.1007/bf03347203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The aim of our study was to investigate the effects of estradiol (E2) and/or progesterone (P4) bilateral ovariectomized rats on gene expressions of adenylyl cyclases (AC2, AC4, AC6, AC9). Non-pregnant (NP) Wister rats (between post-natal 10 and 12 weeks) and normal pregnant rats (between postnatal 10 and 14 weeks) were used. NP rats were divided into five groups: 1) control NP rats, 2) ovariectomy rats (OVX), 3) OVX injected with E2 (6 microg) for 4 days (E2), 4) OVX injected with P4 (5 mg) for 4 days (P4), 5) ovariectomy rats injected with E2 (6 microg) and P4 (5 mg) for 4 days (E2/P4). The ovariectomized rats were sacrificed by anesthesia of diethyl ether after 24 h from the last injection. The pregnant group was sacrificed in the same way on 14 (P14), 17 (P17) and 21 (P21) of pregnancy, because the days between P14 and P17 were the second trimester of pregnancy and P21 was the third trimester. Total RNA were prepared from the uteri of each subject, and expression of ACs was analyzed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Expression of mRNAs for AC2, AC4, AC6 and AC9 were maximally increased on P17 and then decreased on P21. In OVX rats, expression of mRNAs for AC2, AC4, and AC9 were decreased as compared to NP. AC2 mRNA was significantly increased by E2 treatment. AC4 and AC9 mRNA was significantly increased by injection of E2 or P4. AC6 mRNA level was not affected by E2 and/or P4. In conclusion, AC2, AC4 and AC9 gene expression is affected by estrogen and/or P4. On the contrary, AC6 gene expression was not changed by OVX or hormone treatment. Since, all ACs mRNA examined here are increased during pregnancy, AC6 may be affected by other factor(s) other than estrogen and P4.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Asano
- Department of Obstetrics, Fukushima Medical University School of Medicine, Fukushima, Japan
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20
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Abstract
Osteopontin (Opn) is a multifunctional protein independently discovered by investigators from diverse scientific backgrounds and implicated in a broad array of pathological processes. Opn exists both intra- and extracellularly and in numerous pre- and post-translational isoforms. Structurally Opn resembles a matrix protein yet it has well-characterized cytokine like properties including the regulation of cellular migration and cell-mediated immunity. It has thus been classified as both a matricellular protein and a cytokine. Opn is among the most abundantly expressed proteins in a range of lung diseases and has been shown to regulate aspects of pulmonary granuloma formation, fibrosis, and malignancy. Future studies will explore the diagnostic and therapeutic potential of modulating the function of Opn in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony O'Regan
- The Pulmonary Center, R-304, Boston University School of Medicine, 715 Albany Street, Boston, MA 02118, USA.
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21
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Weintraub AS, Lin X, Itskovich VV, Aguinaldo JGS, Chaplin WF, Denhardt DT, Fayad ZA. Prenatal detection of embryo resorption in osteopontin-deficient mice using serial noninvasive magnetic resonance microscopy. Pediatr Res 2004; 55:419-24. [PMID: 14711899 DOI: 10.1203/01.pdr.0000112034.98387.b2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Appropriate temporal and spatial expression of osteopontin (OPN) in the female genital tract may be critical for successful embryo implantation and maintenance of gestation. Traditionally, experimental assessments of reproductive success have been limited to ex vivo dissection at a single time point to determine embryo number and size and are inadequate for ongoing study of the effect(s) of genetic manipulation on any individual gestation. To investigate the role of OPN in the maintenance of gestation, we developed a noninvasive, in vivo method of pregnancy surveillance suitable for murine application using magnetic resonance microscopy (MRM). Gravid wild-type mice (n =7) and mice with targeted disruption of one or both OPN alleles (OPN(-/-), n = 9; OPN(+/-), n = 3) underwent MRM on postcoital days 10.5, 15.5, and 19.5. Prenatal MRM images were used to determine embryo numbers and sizes. There were no significant differences in embryo numbers determined independently by two blinded observers (mean difference between observers = 0.04 embryos; p = 0.87). There was a significant effect of genotype on embryo size, with OPN(-/-) embryos significantly smaller at all gestational ages. However, targeted disruption of one or more OPN alleles had no effect on embryo number at any gestational age. Thus, MRM may be a powerful noninvasive method for in vivo prenatal developmental study of genetically engineered mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea S Weintraub
- The Mount Sinai School of Medicine, Box 1508, One Gustave L. Levy Place, New York, NY 10029, USA.
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22
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Abstract
Osteopontin (OPN) is an acidic member of the small integrin-binding ligand N-linked glycoprotein (SIBLING) family of extracellular matrix proteins/cytokines that undergoes extensive posttranslational modification, including phosphorylation, glycosylation, and cleavage, yielding molecular mass variants ranging in size from 25 to 75 kDa. The result is a versatile protein(s) with multiple functions arising from its role as a mediator of cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) communication that encompass both normal and tumorigenic developmental processes, immunological responses during inflammation and wound healing, and biomineralization. Studies in primates, pigs, sheep, and rodents have revealed that OPN is a major constituent of the uterine-placental microenvironment with influence as 1) a component of histotroph required for adhesion and signal transduction at the uterine-placental interface throughout pregnancy, 2) a gene product expressed by uterine stroma contributing to a decidualization-like transformation that correlates with the degree of conceptus invasiveness, and 3) a product of resident uterine and placental immune cells that may regulate their behavior and cytokine production. This minireview summarizes information regarding uterine and placental expression of OPN that has accumulated over the past 15 yr, and we briefly describe structural/functional properties of this protein that are likely relevant to its role(s) during pregnancy. Comparative studies have offered insights into the potential hormonal/cytokine, cellular, and molecular mechanisms underlying OPN-mediated adhesion, remodeling, and cell-cell/cell-ECM communication within the uterus and placenta. OPN has the potential to profoundly impact pregnancy, and investigators are now challenged to focus on the mechanistic nature of the functions of this multifaceted and major component of the uterine-placental microenvironment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greg A Johnson
- Center for Animal Biotechnology and Genomics, College of Veterinary Medicine, Texas A and M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA.
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23
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Apparao KBC, Illera MJ, Beyler SA, Olson GE, Osteen KG, Corjay MH, Boggess K, Lessey BA. Regulated expression of osteopontin in the peri-implantation rabbit uterus. Biol Reprod 2003; 68:1484-90. [PMID: 12606431 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.101.001347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Blastocyst attachment to the lining of the mammalian uterus during early implantation involves the initial apposition of the trophoblast to the uterine epithelial surface. Osteopontin (OPN) is a glycoprotein component of the extracellular matrix that is secreted by the glandular epithelium of mammalian uteri at the time of implantation. This protein is recognized by several members of the integrin family and promotes cell-cell attachment and adhesion. In the present study, rabbit uteri were examined using Northern and in situ hybridization to evaluate the temporal and spatial distribution of OPN mRNA during early pregnancy. Northern blot analysis demonstrated a dramatic increase in OPN expression on Days 4-7 of pregnancy, corresponding to the rise in circulating progesterone and the time of initial embryo attachment in this species. In situ hybridization analysis revealed OPN mRNA expression on Day 6.75 of pregnancy, which was most prominent on endometrial epithelium. Using immunofluorescence, OPN protein was present on the glandular epithelium on Day 6.75 of pregnancy, but was absent on blastocysts. Further, no expression of OPN mRNA or protein was found in the nonpregnant endometrium. Induction of endometrial OPN expression was observed in unmated rabbits treated with progesterone alone and was prevented by cotreatment with the antiprogestin ZK137.316. Estradiol-17beta had no effect on OPN expression by itself, and estrogen priming was not necessary to demonstrate the stimulatory effect of progesterone. In The rabbit uterus, as in other mammalian species studied, OPN is expressed in a stage-specific manner by the endometrial glands during the peri-implantation period and is regulated by progesterone.
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Affiliation(s)
- K B C Apparao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Fertility, the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 27599-7570, USA
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24
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Abstract
Osteopontin (Opn) is a secreted adhesive, glycosylated phosphoprotein that contains the arginine-glycine-aspartic acid (RGD) cell-binding sequence that is found in many extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins (for a review of Opn see References Denhardt & Guo 1993; Patarca et al. 1993; Rittling & Denhardt 1999). Since its initial description in 1979 as a secreted protein associated with malignant transformation, Opn has been independently discovered by investigators from diverse scientific disciplines, and has been associated with a remarkable range of pathologic responses. Opn is an important bone matrix protein, where it is thought to mediate adhesion of osteoclasts to resorbing bone. However, studies from the past decade have identified an alternative role for Opn as a key cytokine regulating tissue repair and inflammation. Recent work by our laboratory and that of others has underlined the importance of Opn as a pivotal cytokine in the cellular immune response. Despite this Opn is not well known to the immunologist. In this review we will focus on studies that pertain to the role of Opn in cell-mediated and granulomatous inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- A O'Regan
- The Pulmonary Center, Pulmonary and Critical Care Section, Boston University School of Medicine, USA
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25
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Patel Y, Kim H, Rappolee DA. A role for hepatocyte growth factor during early postimplantation growth of the placental lineage in mice. Biol Reprod 2000; 62:904-12. [PMID: 10727259 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod62.4.904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) is implicated in placental development; hgfr and hgf null mutant embryos develop placental insufficiency and lethality at 11.5 days (E11.5) after fertilization. The function of HGF in placentation at implantation (E4.5) has not been studied. Using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, we detected HGF receptor (HGFR) mRNA in preimplantation embryos and in cultured blastocyst outgrowths. HGFR protein was detected in trophoblast cells in blastocyst outgrowths. HGF mRNA was not detected at these stages but was detected in the uterus at E5.5. Using in situ hybridization, we detected HGF mRNA in the mesometrial uterus, near the embryo, from E6.5 through E8.5. At E8.5, HGFR mRNA was detected in the chorionic placenta, and HGF mRNA was detected in the allantois. The expression for HGF and HGFR suggested a maternal-to-embryonic communication before the development of the allantois. To test this, blastocyst outgrowths were cultured with HGF. HGF stimulated the outgrowth of trophoblasts in a time-dependent manner and stimulated the expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen, but it did not scatter trophoblasts. HGF stimulated an increase in the trophoblast cell number, but caused a decrease in the total number of terminally differentiated trophoblasts expressing placental lactogen-1 protein. These data suggest that HGF stimulates the cell division, but not the differentiation, of trophoblast cells during implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Patel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Medical School, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA
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26
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Abstract
In order for pregnancy to be established, the conceptus of domestic animals must signal its presence upon arrival in the uterus, a process known as maternal recognition of pregnancy. The conceptus derived signal(s) prevent(s) the structural and functional demise of the corpus luteum to ensure the maintenance of a uterine environment that supports implantation and embryonic development. Implantation is a remarkable event that has been described as a biological paradox because an adhesive interaction is formed between two apical surfaces of epithelial cell types that are typically covered by non-adhesive glycoproteins. In domestic animals (such as pigs, horses, sheep, does and cows), the implantation process is not invasive as it is in most other mammalian species. This review describes the interaction between the conceptus (embryo and surrounding membranes) and the uterine epithelial surface in domestic farm animals and ability of the conceptus to control the lifespan of the corpus luteum to maintain pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Bowen
- Department of Biological Sciences, Bridgewater State College, Bridgewater, MA 02535, USA.
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27
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YAMATE T, KOHRI K, UMEKAWA T, IGUCHI M, KURITA T. OSTEOPONTIN ANTISENSE OLIGONUCLEOTIDE INHIBITS ADHESION OF CALCIUM OXALATE CRYSTALS IN MADIN-DARBY CANINE KIDNEY CELL. J Urol 1998. [DOI: 10.1016/s0022-5347(01)62604-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- T. YAMATE
- From the Department of Urology, Kinki University School of Medicine, Osaka, and the Department of Urology, Medical School, Nagoya City University, Aichi, Japan
| | - K. KOHRI
- From the Department of Urology, Kinki University School of Medicine, Osaka, and the Department of Urology, Medical School, Nagoya City University, Aichi, Japan
| | - T. UMEKAWA
- From the Department of Urology, Kinki University School of Medicine, Osaka, and the Department of Urology, Medical School, Nagoya City University, Aichi, Japan
| | - M. IGUCHI
- From the Department of Urology, Kinki University School of Medicine, Osaka, and the Department of Urology, Medical School, Nagoya City University, Aichi, Japan
| | - T. KURITA
- From the Department of Urology, Kinki University School of Medicine, Osaka, and the Department of Urology, Medical School, Nagoya City University, Aichi, Japan
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28
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OSTEOPONTIN ANTISENSE OLIGONUCLEOTIDE INHIBITS ADHESION OF CALCIUM OXALATE CRYSTALS IN MADIN-DARBY CANINE KIDNEY CELL. J Urol 1998. [DOI: 10.1097/00005392-199810000-00106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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29
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Botquin V, Hess H, Fuhrmann G, Anastassiadis C, Gross MK, Vriend G, Schöler HR. New POU dimer configuration mediates antagonistic control of an osteopontin preimplantation enhancer by Oct-4 and Sox-2. Genes Dev 1998; 12:2073-90. [PMID: 9649510 PMCID: PMC316977 DOI: 10.1101/gad.12.13.2073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 242] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The POU transcription factor Oct-4 is expressed specifically in the germ line, pluripotent cells of the pregastrulation embryo and stem cell lines derived from the early embryo. Osteopontin (OPN) is a protein secreted by cells of the preimplantation embryo and contains a GRGDS motif that can bind to specific integrin subtypes and modulate cell adhesion/migration. We show that Oct-4 and OPN are coexpressed in the preimplantation mouse embryo and during differentiation of embryonal cell lines. Immunoprecipitation of the first intron of OPN (i-opn) from covalently fixed chromatin of embryonal stem cells by Oct-4-specific antibodies indicates that Oct-4 binds to this fragment in vivo. The i-opn fragment functions as an enhancer in cell lines that resemble cells of the preimplantation embryo. Furthermore, it contains a novel palindromic Oct factor recognition element (PORE) that is composed of an inverted pair of homeodomain-binding sites separated by exactly 5 bp (ATTTG +5 CAAAT). POU proteins can homo- and heterodimerize on the PORE in a configuration that has not been described previously. Strong transcriptional activation of the OPN element requires an intact PORE. In contrast, the canonical octamer overlapping with the downstream half of the PORE is not essential. Sox-2 is a transcription factor that contains an HMG box and is coexpressed with Oct-4 in the early mouse embryo. Sox-2 represses Oct-4 mediated activation of i-opn by way of a canonical Sox element that is located close to the PORE. Repression depends on a carboxy-terminal region of Sox-2 that is outside of the HMG box. Expression, DNA binding, and transactivation data are consistent with the hypothesis that OPN expression is regulated by Oct-4 and Sox-2 in preimplantation development.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Botquin
- Gene Expression Programme, European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), 69117 Heidelberg, Germany
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30
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Affiliation(s)
- J R Hoyer
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia 19104, USA
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31
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Denhardt DT, Lopez CA, Rollo EE, Hwang SM, An XR, Walther SE. Osteopontin-induced modifications of cellular functions. Ann N Y Acad Sci 1995; 760:127-42. [PMID: 7540371 DOI: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.1995.tb44625.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Osteopontin (OPN) serves both a cell attachment function and a cell signalling function via the alpha v beta 3 integrin. We have investigated the action on mammalian cells of recombinant OPN made both in E. coli and in human cells. In its cell signalling capacity it initiates a signal transduction cascade that includes changes in the intracellular calcium ion levels and the tyrosine phosphorylation status of several proteins including pp60src and components of focal adhesion complexes. Effects on gene expression include suppression of the induction of nitric oxide synthase by inflammatory mediators. OPN can also reduce cell peroxide levels, promote the survival of cells exposed to hypoxia, and inhibit the killing of tumor cells by activated macrophages.
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Affiliation(s)
- D T Denhardt
- Department of Biological Sciences, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08855, USA
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32
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Wojda U, Kuźnicki J. Calcyclin from mouse Ehrlich ascites tumor cells and rabbit lung form non-covalent dimers. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA 1994; 1209:248-52. [PMID: 7811698 DOI: 10.1016/0167-4838(94)90192-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Crosslinking treatments of fresh cytosol from mouse Ehrlich ascites tumor (EAT) cells revealed the existence of calcyclin dimers which were sensitive to SDS, but not to reducing agents, which suggests the existence of non-covalent dimers. In stored EAT cell cytosol and preparations of purified calcyclin dimers were also formed by S-S bridging (covalent dimers). The S-S dimers did not bind to organomercurial Agarose and could be separated from reduced forms of calcyclin that bound to the resin. Calcyclin eluted from the resin with DTT was a mixture of monomers and non-covalent dimers as shown by crosslinking and subsequent immunoblotting. Calcyclin from rabbit lung, lacking a cysteine residue, could also be crosslinked as a dimer. It is suggested that the ability of calcyclin to form non-covalent dimers is of physiological significance.
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Affiliation(s)
- U Wojda
- Nencki Institute of Experimental Biology, Warsaw, Poland
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Maeda H, Kukita T, Akamine A, Kukita A, Iijima T. Localization of osteopontin in resorption lacunae formed by osteoclast-like cells: a study by a novel monoclonal antibody which recognizes rat osteopontin. HISTOCHEMISTRY 1994; 102:247-54. [PMID: 7843987 DOI: 10.1007/bf00269160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
The characteristics of a monoclonal antibody produced against osteoclast-like multinucleated cells (MNCs) formed in rat bone marrow cultures were examined immunohistochemically and biochemically. The in vitro immunization was performed using as immunogen the MNCs from rat bone marrow cell culture, which revealed many characteristics of osteoclasts. After screening and cloning of hybridomas, the monoclonal antibody HOK 1 was obtained. This antibody reacted weakly with stromal cells and intensely with both MNCs and their putative migratory traces on culture dishes. Immunofluorescent examination of paraffin sections revealed intense reactivity on the epithelium of the choroid plexus, the ileum and the proximal-convoluted tubules of the kidney, and also on bone cells such as osteocytes, osteoblasts, and osteoclasts. Western blotting using purified rat osteopontin verified that the antigen recognized by HOK 1 was osteopontin. Positive HOK 1 immunoreactivity was further observed in the resorption lacunae formed by a culture of MNCs on human tooth slices and on the surface of osteoclasts. The present data suggested that osteopontin is preferentially present on the resorption lacunae in resorbing calcified matrices and that osteoclasts under a specific state might trap this protein on their cell surface.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Maeda
- Department of Periodontics and Endodontics, Faculty of Dentistry, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
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Waterhouse P, Denhardt DT, Khokha R. Temporal expression of tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases in mouse reproductive tissues during gestation. Mol Reprod Dev 1993; 35:219-26. [PMID: 8352925 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.1080350302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) appear to play an important regulatory role in tissue remodelling and invasion by malignant cells. Since pregnancy involves morphological changes in existing maternal tissues, as well as a strictly controlled invasion by fetal trophoblasts, we have examined the temporal expression of TIMP-1, TIMP-2, and specific metalloproteinases in the mouse uterus, decidua, placenta, amnion, and ovaries throughout gestation by examining mRNA levels on northern and slot blots. Maximal levels of TIMP-1 mRNA were observed from day 6 to day 10 in the uterus, decidua, and placenta. In clear contrast to the early burst of TIMP-1 mRNA accumulation, the level of TIMP-2 mRNA increased steadily throughout gestation in the uterus, decidua, and amnion, while in the placenta it showed a sevenfold increase after day 14. In amnion, TIMP-1 was induced specifically on day 18. Interestingly, the normally high level of TIMP-1 mRNA seen in the ovaries of virgin mice was low during gestation, until day 18 and postpartum, when a sixfold increase over the levels in virgin ovary was observed. In contrast, ovarian TIMP-2 mRNA showed a marginal increase during gestation. The temporal pattern of 72 kDa gelatinase type A followed that of TIMP-2 in the decidua and ovary. Stromelysin-2 mRNA was detected at term only in ovary and decidua. Our data show that the temporal accumulation of TIMP-1 and TIMP-2 mRNA is precisely coordinated in each of the tissue compartments and is independently regulated during the in vivo remodeling of reproductive tissues in gestation.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
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Affiliation(s)
- P Waterhouse
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
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Morris VL, Tuck AB, Wilson SM, Percy D, Chambers AF. Tumor progression and metastasis in murine D2 hyperplastic alveolar nodule mammary tumor cell lines. Clin Exp Metastasis 1993; 11:103-12. [PMID: 8422701 DOI: 10.1007/bf00880071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
We have examined tumor progression and metastatic properties of three clonal murine mammary tumor cell lines of recent origin (D2A1, D2.OR and D2.1). These lines were derived from spontaneous mammary tumors which originated from a D2 hyperplastic alveolar nodule (HAN) line. D2A1 cells were more malignant than D2.OR or D2.1 cells, whether measured by experimental metastasis assays after intravenous injection in nude mice or chick embryos, in vivo growth rate of primary tumors following mammary fat pad injection in nude mice, or spontaneous metastasis assay from primary tumors growing in mammary fat pads. D2A1 cells also were more invasive in vitro in a Matrigel invasion assay than D2.1 cells, while the D2.OR cells were non-invasive in this assay. The increased invasiveness and malignancy of D2A1 cells were associated with increased levels of mRNA for the cysteine proteinase cathepsin L. Levels of osteopontin (OPN), nm23, int-1 and int-2 mRNAs were also examined. Nm23 levels were highest in the most malignant cell line. These cell lines provide a model for studying the tumorigenic and metastatic ability of mammary tumor cells and offer several advantages: they were cloned from mammary tumors that originate from a common source of preneoplastic cells (D2HAN); they are of relatively recent origin; and they have spontaneously arrived at different stages of tumor progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- V L Morris
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada
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