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Altaf F, Khanzada M, Qasim A, Anto AM, Haider A, Khaja M. Successful Management of Atypical Hemolytic-Uremic Syndrome in Pregnancy Using Eculizumab: A Case Review. Cureus 2024; 16:e57973. [PMID: 38738120 PMCID: PMC11086038 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.57973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/10/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Hemolytic-uremic syndrome (HUS) is a rare thrombotic microangiopathy characterized by the triad of microangiopathic hemolytic anemia (MAHA), thrombocytopenia, and acute kidney injury. The disease is pathologically marked by fibrinoid necrosis within renal arterioles and glomerular capillaries. HUS can be categorized into typical variants, often linked to Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) infection, and atypical variants that stem from dysregulation in the alternative complement pathway. Pregnancy is a recognized predisposing condition for HUS due to the potential reduction in complement regulatory proteins and the possibility of heightened maternal immune response. This report illustrates the case of a 36-year-old woman who, at 36 weeks of gestation, faced a breech presentation and was diagnosed with atypical HUS (aHUS) after placental abruption. Following a cesarean section, she developed complications, including a pelvic hematoma and bilateral hydronephrosis. Despite initial suboptimal response to plasmapheresis, the patient exhibited marked clinical improvement with eculizumab treatment, with no evidence of disease relapse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faryal Altaf
- Internal Medicine, BronxCare Health System, Bronx, USA
| | | | - Abeer Qasim
- Internal Medicine, BronxCare Health System, Bronx, USA
| | - Anandu M Anto
- Internal Medicine, BronxCare Health System, Bronx, USA
| | - Asim Haider
- Internal Medicine, St. Vincent Medical Center, Bridgeport, USA
| | - Misbahuddin Khaja
- Internal Medicine/Pulmonary Critical Care, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, BronxCare Health System, Bronx, USA
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Frimat M, Gnemmi V, Stichelbout M, Provôt F, Fakhouri F. Pregnancy as a susceptible state for thrombotic microangiopathies. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1343060. [PMID: 38476448 PMCID: PMC10927739 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1343060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy and the postpartum period represent phases of heightened vulnerability to thrombotic microangiopathies (TMAs), as evidenced by distinct patterns of pregnancy-specific TMAs (e.g., preeclampsia, HELLP syndrome), as well as a higher incidence of nonspecific TMAs, such as thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura or hemolytic uremic syndrome, during pregnancy. Significant strides have been taken in understanding the underlying mechanisms of these disorders in the past 40 years. This progress has involved the identification of pivotal factors contributing to TMAs, such as the complement system, ADAMTS13, and the soluble VEGF receptor Flt1. Regardless of the specific causal factor (which is not generally unique in relation to the usual multifactorial origin of TMAs), the endothelial cell stands as a central player in the pathophysiology of TMAs. Pregnancy has a major impact on the physiology of the endothelium. Besides to the development of placenta and its vascular consequences, pregnancy modifies the characteristics of the women's microvascular endothelium and tends to render it more prone to thrombosis. This review aims to delineate the distinct features of pregnancy-related TMAs and explore the contributing mechanisms that lead to this increased susceptibility, particularly influenced by the "gravid endothelium." Furthermore, we will discuss the potential contribution of histopathological studies in facilitating the etiological diagnosis of pregnancy-related TMAs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Frimat
- CHU Lille, Nephrology Department, Univ. Lille, Lille, France
- Inserm, Institut Pasteur de Lille, Univ. Lille, Lille, France
| | | | | | - François Provôt
- CHU Lille, Nephrology Department, Univ. Lille, Lille, France
| | - Fadi Fakhouri
- Service of Nephrology and Hypertension, CHUV and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Yasmin H, Agostinis C, Toffoli M, Roy T, Pegoraro S, Balduit A, Zito G, Di Simone N, Ricci G, Madan T, Kishore U, Bulla R. Protective role of complement factor H against the development of preeclampsia. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1351898. [PMID: 38464530 PMCID: PMC10920295 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1351898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy is an immunologically regulated, complex process. A tightly controlled complement system plays a crucial role in the successful establishment of pregnancy and parturition. Complement inhibitors at the feto-maternal interface are likely to prevent inappropriate complement activation to protect the fetus. In the present study, we aimed to understand the role of Factor H (FH), a negative regulator of complement activation, in normal pregnancy and in a model of pathological pregnancy, i.e. preeclampsia (PE). The distribution and expression of FH was investigated in placental tissues, various placental cells, and in the sera of healthy (CTRL) or PE pregnant women via immunohistochemistry, RT-qPCR, ELISA, and Western blot. Our results showed a differential expression of FH among the placental cell types, decidual stromal cells (DSCs), decidual endothelial cells (DECs), and extravillous trophoblasts (EVTs). Interestingly, FH was found to be considerably less expressed in the placental tissues of PE patients compared to normal placental tissue both at mRNA and protein levels. Similar results were obtained by measuring circulating FH levels in the sera of third trimester CTRL and PE mothers. Syncytiotrophoblast microvesicles, isolated from the placental tissues of PE and CTRL women, downregulated FH expression by DECs. The present study appears to suggest that FH is ubiquitously present in the normal placenta and plays a homeostatic role during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hadida Yasmin
- Immunology and Cell Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Cooch Behar Panchanan Barma University, Cooch Behar, West Bengal, India
| | - Chiara Agostinis
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
| | - Miriam Toffoli
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Science, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Tamali Roy
- Immunology and Cell Biology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Cooch Behar Panchanan Barma University, Cooch Behar, West Bengal, India
| | - Silvia Pegoraro
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
| | - Andrea Balduit
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
| | - Gabriella Zito
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Di Simone
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
- Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS) Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Ricci
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Science, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Taruna Madan
- Department of Innate Immunity, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive and Child Health (NIRRCH), Mumbai, India
| | - Uday Kishore
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, U.A.E. University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
- Zayed Centre for Health Sciences, United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Roberta Bulla
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
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Domínguez-Vargas A, Ariño F, Silva D, González-Tórres HJ, Aroca-Martinez G, Egea E, Musso CG. Pregnancy-Associated Atypical Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome: A Case Report with MCP Gene Mutation and Successful Eculizumab Treatment. AJP Rep 2024; 14:e96-e100. [PMID: 38384402 PMCID: PMC10881257 DOI: 10.1055/a-2164-8438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Pregnancy-associated atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome (P-aHUS) is a rare condition characterized by microangiopathic hemolytic anemia and kidney injury from thrombotic microangiopathy. P-aHUS occurs in approximately 1 in 25,000 pregnancies and is strongly related to complement dysregulation and pregnancy-related disorders, such as preeclampsia, eclampsia, and hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, low platelet (HELLP) syndrome, resulting in adverse perinatal and fetal outcomes. Complement dysregulation in P-aHUS is commonly attributed to genetic mutations or autoantibodies affecting complement factors, including CFH , CFI , and MCP. We present a case of a 25-year-old primigravida who experienced severe preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome followed by the development of complicated P-aHUS during the early postpartum period. The patient exhibited severe clinical manifestations, including hypertensive emergency, central nervous system involvement, renal impairment, and microangiopathic hemolytic anemia. Timely initiation of eculizumab therapy resulted in successful disease remission. Further genetic analysis revealed a likely rare pathogenic MCP gene variant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Domínguez-Vargas
- División Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Norte, Barranquilla, Colombia
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Simón Bolívar, Barranquilla, Colombia
| | - Fanny Ariño
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Simón Bolívar, Barranquilla, Colombia
| | - Diana Silva
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Simón Bolívar, Barranquilla, Colombia
| | | | - Gustavo Aroca-Martinez
- División Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Norte, Barranquilla, Colombia
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Simón Bolívar, Barranquilla, Colombia
- Departamento de Nefrología, Clínica de la Costa, Barranquilla, Colombia
| | - Eduardo Egea
- División Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Norte, Barranquilla, Colombia
| | - Carlos G. Musso
- Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Simón Bolívar, Barranquilla, Colombia
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Reed RM, Whyte MB, Goff LM. Cardiometabolic disease in Black African and Caribbean populations: an ethnic divergence in pathophysiology? Proc Nutr Soc 2023:1-11. [PMID: 38230432 DOI: 10.1017/s0029665123004895] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
In the UK, populations of Black African and Caribbean (BAC) ethnicity suffer higher rates of cardiometabolic disease than White Europeans (WE). Obesity, leading to increased visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and intrahepatic lipid (IHL), has long been associated with cardiometabolic risk, driving insulin resistance and defective fatty acid/lipoprotein metabolism. These defects are compounded by a state of chronic low-grade inflammation, driven by dysfunctional adipose tissue. Emerging evidence has highlighted associations between central complement system components and adipose tissue, fatty acid metabolism and inflammation; it may therefore sit at the intersection of various cardiometabolic disease risk factors. However, increasing evidence suggests an ethnic divergence in pathophysiology, whereby current theories fail to explain the high rates of cardiometabolic disease in BAC populations. Lower fasting and postprandial TAG has been reported in BAC, alongside lower VAT and IHL deposition, which are paradoxical to the high rates of cardiometabolic disease exhibited by this ethnic group. Furthermore, BAC have been shown to exhibit a more anti-inflammatory profile, with lower TNF-α and greater IL-10. In contrast, recent evidence has revealed greater complement activation in BAC compared to WE, suggesting its dysregulation may play a greater role in the high rates of cardiometabolic disease experienced by this population. This review outlines the current theories of how obesity is proposed to drive cardiometabolic disease, before discussing evidence for ethnic differences in disease pathophysiology between BAC and WE populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reuben M Reed
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, London SE1 9NH, UK
| | - Martin B Whyte
- Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey GU2 7WG, UK
| | - Louise M Goff
- Leicester Diabetes Research Centre, University of Leicester, Leicester, UK
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David M, Singh S, Naicker T. Is the central complement component C3 altered in the synergy of HIV infection and preeclampsia? Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol X 2023; 20:100257. [PMID: 37885814 PMCID: PMC10598405 DOI: 10.1016/j.eurox.2023.100257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 09/26/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective In light of complement activation in preeclampsia and HIV infection, this study evaluates the concentration of complement component 3 (C3) in HIV-associated preeclampsia. Method The study population (n = 76) was equally stratified by pregnancy type (normotensive pregnant and preeclampsia) and by HIV status (HIV positive and HIV negative). The plasma concentration of C3 was determined using a Bioplex immunoassay procedure. Results We report a significant increase in C3 concentration in the HIV-negative versus the HIV-positive groups (p < 0.05), regardless of pregnancy type. However, based on pregnancy type and irrespective of HIV status, C3 concentration was similar between normotensive versus preeclampsia. Concentration of C3 was significantly increased in the HIV-positive preeclamptic compared HIV-negative preeclamptic groups (p = 0.04). The correlation of C3 with all study groups was non-significant. Conclusion This study demonstrates that C3 was upregulated in HIV-associated PE compared to HIV- associated normotensive pregnancies. The dysregulation of C3 expression by HIV infection may be attributed to antiretroviral therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mikyle David
- Optics and Imaging Centre, Doris Duke Medical Research Institute, Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Shoohana Singh
- Optics and Imaging Centre, Doris Duke Medical Research Institute, Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Thajasvarie Naicker
- Optics and Imaging Centre, Doris Duke Medical Research Institute, Nelson R. Mandela School of Medicine, College of Health Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
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Gerber GF, Brodsky RA. ADP: the missing link between thrombosis and hemolysis. Blood Adv 2023; 7:6364-6366. [PMID: 37874560 PMCID: PMC10625892 DOI: 10.1182/bloodadvances.2023011186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Gloria F Gerber
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
| | - Robert A Brodsky
- Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD
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Mineo C, Shaul PW, Bermas BL. The pathogenesis of obstetric APS: a 2023 update. Clin Immunol 2023; 255:109745. [PMID: 37625670 DOI: 10.1016/j.clim.2023.109745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
The antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is an autoimmune disease characterized by the persistent presence of antibodies directed against phospholipids and phospholipid-binding proteins that are associated with thrombosis and pregnancy-related morbidity. The latter includes fetal deaths, premature birth and maternal complications. In the early 1990s, a distinct set of autoantibodies, termed collectively antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL), were identified as the causative agents of this disorder. Subsequently histological analyses of the placenta from APS pregnancies revealed various abnormalities, including inflammation at maternal-fetal interface and poor placentation manifested by reduced trophoblast invasion and limited uterine spiral artery remodeling. Further preclinical investigations identified the molecular targets of aPL and the downstream intracellular pathways of key placental cell types. While these discoveries suggest potential therapeutics for this disorder, definitive clinical trials have not been completed. This concise review focuses on the recent developments in the field of basic and translational research pursuing novel mechanisms underlying obstetric APS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chieko Mineo
- Center for Pulmonary and Vascular Biology, Department of Pediatrics, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States.
| | - Philip W Shaul
- Center for Pulmonary and Vascular Biology, Department of Pediatrics, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Bonnie L Bermas
- Division of Rheumatic Diseases, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
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Santiago VF, Dombrowski JG, Kawahara R, Rosa-Fernandes L, Mule SN, Murillo O, Santana TV, Coutinho JVP, Macedo-da-Silva J, Lazari LC, Peixoto EPM, Ramirez MI, Larsen MR, Marinho CRF, Palmisano G. Complement System Activation Is a Plasma Biomarker Signature during Malaria in Pregnancy. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1624. [PMID: 37628675 PMCID: PMC10454407 DOI: 10.3390/genes14081624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Malaria in pregnancy (MiP) is a public health problem in malaria-endemic areas, contributing to detrimental outcomes for both mother and fetus. Primigravida and second-time mothers are most affected by severe anemia complications and babies with low birth weight compared to multigravida women. Infected erythrocytes (IE) reach the placenta, activating the immune response by placental monocyte infiltration and inflammation. However, specific markers of MiP result in poor outcomes, such as low birth weight, and intrauterine growth restriction for babies and maternal anemia in women infected with Plasmodium falciparum are limited. In this study, we identified the plasma proteome signature of a mouse model infected with Plasmodium berghei ANKA and pregnant women infected with Plasmodium falciparum infection using quantitative mass spectrometry-based proteomics. A total of 279 and 249 proteins were quantified in murine and human plasma samples, of which 28% and 30% were regulated proteins, respectively. Most of the regulated proteins in both organisms are involved in complement system activation during malaria in pregnancy. CBA anaphylatoxin assay confirmed the complement system activation by the increase in C3a and C4a anaphylatoxins in the infected plasma compared to non-infected plasma. Moreover, correlation analysis showed the association between complement system activation and reduced head circumference in newborns from Pf-infected mothers. The data obtained in this study highlight the correlation between the complement system and immune and newborn outcomes resulting from malaria in pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Feijoli Santiago
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Jamille Gregorio Dombrowski
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Rebeca Kawahara
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil
- Analytical Glycoimmunology Group, Department of Molecular Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, NSW 2109, Australia
| | - Livia Rosa-Fernandes
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Simon Ngao Mule
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Oscar Murillo
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil
- Department of Pulmonary Immunology, Center for Biomedical Research, University of Texas Health Center Science at Tyler, Tyler, TX 75708, USA
| | - Thais Viggiani Santana
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Joao Victor Paccini Coutinho
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Janaina Macedo-da-Silva
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Lucas Cardoso Lazari
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Erika Paula Machado Peixoto
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil
| | - Marcel Ivan Ramirez
- Cell Biology Laboratory, Carlos Chagas Institute, Fiocruz, Curitiba 81350-010, Brazil
| | - Martin R. Larsen
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Southern Denmark, 5230 Odense, Denmark
| | | | - Giuseppe Palmisano
- Department of Parasitology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-000, Brazil
- Analytical Glycoimmunology Group, Department of Molecular Sciences, Macquarie University, Macquarie Park, NSW 2109, Australia
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Beernink RHJ, Schuitemaker JHN, Zwertbroek EF, Scherjon SA, Cremers TIFH. Early pregnancy biomarker discovery study for spontaneous preterm birth. Placenta 2023; 139:112-119. [PMID: 37356366 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2023.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/27/2023]
Abstract
(1) OBJECTIVE: discover new candidate biomarkers for spontaneous preterm birth in early pregnancy samples. When fully clinically validated, early pregnancy biomarkers for sPTB give the possibility to intervene or monitor high-risk pregnancies more intensively through, as example, pelvic exams, ultrasound or sonographic cervical length surveillance. (2) STUDY DESIGN: Early pregnancy serum samples of eight spontaneous extreme and very preterm birth cases (<32 weeks of gestational age) without any symptoms of preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction and eight uncomplicated pregnancies were analyzed by liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Thirteen proteins, which were differentially expressed according to the LC-MS data, were subsequently selected for confirmation by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). (3) RESULTS: Differential expression of four candidate biomarkers was confirmed by ELISA with decreased early pregnancy levels of gelsolin and fibulin-1 and increased levels of c-reactive protein and complement C5 in the preterm birth group. (4) CONCLUSIONS: The confirmed candidate biomarkers are all to some extent related to inflammatory pathways and/or the complement system. This supports the hypothesis that both play a role in extreme and very preterm birth without any symptoms of preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction. The predictive value of complement C5, c-reactive protein, fibulin-1 and gelsolin should, therefore, be validated in another cohort with early pregnancy samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rik H J Beernink
- Dept. Analytical Biochemistry, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands; Research & Development, IQ Products BV., Groningen, the Netherlands.
| | - Joost H N Schuitemaker
- Research & Development, IQ Products BV., Groningen, the Netherlands; Div. of Medical Biology, Dept. of Pathology and Medical Biology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Eva F Zwertbroek
- Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Sicco A Scherjon
- Dept. of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Thomas I F H Cremers
- Dept. Analytical Biochemistry, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
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Esteve-Valverde E, Alijotas-Reig J, Belizna C, Marques-Soares J, Anunciacion-Llunell A, Feijóo-Massó C, Sáez-Comet L, Mekinian A, Ferrer-Oliveras R, Lefkou E, Morales-Pérez S, Hoxha A, Tincani A, Nalli C, Pardos-Gea J, Marozio L, Maina A, Espinosa G, Cervera R, De Carolis S, Latino O, Udry S, Llurba E, Garrido-Gimenez C, Trespidi L, Gerosa M, Chighizola CB, Rovere-Querini P, Canti V, Mayer-Pickel K, Tabacco S, Arnau A, Miró-Mur F. Low complement levels are related to poor obstetric outcomes in women with obstetric antiphospholipid syndrome. The EUROAPS Registry Study Group. Placenta 2023; 136:29-34. [PMID: 37028222 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2023.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Obstetric antiphospholipid syndrome (OAPS) is an autoimmune disease related to antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) with primaryinflammatory injury followed by clot cascade activation and thrombus formation. Complement system activation and their participation in aPL-related thrombosis is unclosed. METHODS We haveanalysed adverse pregnancy outcomes (APO) related to low complement (LC) levels in a cohort of 1048 women fulfilling classification criteria for OAPS. RESULTS Overall, 223 (21.3%) women presented LC values, during pregnancy. The length of pregnancy was shorter in OAPS women with LC compared to those with normal complement (NC) (median: 33 weeks, interquartile range: [24-38] vs. 35 weeks [27-38]; p = 0.022). Life new-born incidence was higher in patients with NC levels than in those with LC levels (74.4% vs. 67.7%; p = 0.045). Foetal losses were more related to women with triple or double aPL positivity carrying LC than NC values (16.3% vs. 8.0% NC; p = 0.027). Finally, some placental vasculopathies were affected in OAPS patients with LC as late Foetal Growth Restriction (FGR >34 weeks) rise to 7.2% in women with LC vs. 3.2% with NC (p = 0.007). DISCUSSION Data from our registry indicate that incidence of APO was higher in OAPS women with LC levels and some could be reverted by the correct treatment.
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12
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Catarci S, Zanfini BA, Di Muro M, Capone E, Frassanito L, Santantonio MT, Draisci G. A case report of an atypical haemolytic uremic syndrome in pregnancy: something wicked this way comes. BMC Anesthesiol 2023; 23:94. [PMID: 36977996 PMCID: PMC10045212 DOI: 10.1186/s12871-023-02066-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Atypical Haemolytic Uremic Syndrome is an acute life-threatening condition, characterized by the clinical triad of microangiopathic hemolytic anaemia, thrombocytopenia, kidney injury. Management of pregnants affected by Atypical Haemolytic Uremic Syndrome can be a serious concern for obstetric anesthesiologist in the delivery room and in the intensive care unit. CASE PRESENTATION A 35-year-old primigravida with a monochorionic diamniotic twin pregnancy, presented with an acute haemorrhage due to retained placenta after elective caesarean section and underwent surgical exploration. In the postoperative period, the patient progressively developed hypoxemic respiratory failure and, later on, anaemia, severe thrombocytopenia, and acute kidney injury. A timely diagnosis of Atypical Haemolytic Uremic Syndrome was made. Non-invasive ventilation and high-flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy sessions were initially required. Hypertensive crisis and fluid overload were aggressively treated with a combination of beta and alpha adrenergic blockers (labetalol 0,3 mg/kg/h by continuous intravenous infusion for the first 24 hours, bisoprolol 2,5 mg twice daily for the first 48 hours, doxazosin 2 mg twice daily), central sympatholytics (methyldopa 250 mg twice daily for the first 72 hours, transdermal clonidine 5 mg by the third day), diuretics (furosemide 20 mg three times daily), calcium antagonists (amlodipine 5 mg twice daily). Eculizumab 900 mg was administered via intravenous infusion once per week, attaining hematological and renal remissions. The patient also received several blood transfusion units and anti- meningococcal B, anti-pneumococcal, anti-haemophilus influenzae type B vaccination. Her clinical condition progressively improved, and she was finally discharged from intensive care unit 5 days after admission. CONCLUSIONS The clinical course of this report underlines how crucial it is for the obstetric anaesthesiologist to promptly identify Atypical Haemolytic Uremic Syndrome, since early initiation of eculizumab, together with supportive therapy, has a direct effect on patient outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Catarci
- Department of Scienze dell'Emergenza, Anestesiologiche e della Rianimazione, IRCCS Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, Rome, Italy.
| | - Bruno Antonio Zanfini
- Department of Scienze dell'Emergenza, Anestesiologiche e della Rianimazione, IRCCS Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, Rome, Italy
| | - Mariangela Di Muro
- Department of Scienze dell'Emergenza, Anestesiologiche e della Rianimazione, IRCCS Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, Rome, Italy
| | - Emanuele Capone
- Department of Scienze dell'Emergenza, Anestesiologiche e della Rianimazione, IRCCS Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, Rome, Italy
| | - Luciano Frassanito
- Department of Scienze dell'Emergenza, Anestesiologiche e della Rianimazione, IRCCS Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Teresa Santantonio
- Department of Scienze dell'Emergenza, Anestesiologiche e della Rianimazione, IRCCS Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, Rome, Italy
| | - Gaetano Draisci
- Department of Scienze dell'Emergenza, Anestesiologiche e della Rianimazione, IRCCS Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli, Rome, Italy
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13
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Isaksson GL, Nielsen LH, Palarasah Y, Jensen DM, Andersen LLT, Madsen K, Bistrup C, Jørgensen JS, Ovesen PG, Jensen BL. Urine excretion of C3dg and sC5b-9 coincide with proteinuria and development of preeclampsia in pregnant women with type-1 diabetes. J Hypertens 2023; 41:223-232. [PMID: 36583350 DOI: 10.1097/hjh.0000000000003288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Pregnant women with type-1 diabetes have an increased risk of preeclampsia with kidney injury and cardiovascular complications. Urine excretion of plasmin and soluble membrane attack complex (sC5b-9) is elevated in severe preeclampsia. We hypothesized a coupling between these events and that active plasmin promotes intratubular complement activation and membrane deposition. METHODS Stored urine and plasma samples from pregnant women with type-1 diabetes (n = 88) collected at gestational weeks 12, 20, 28, 32, 36 and 38 were used. In the cohort, 14 women developed preeclampsia and were compared with 16 nonpreeclampsia controls. RESULTS Urine C3dg and sC5b-9-associated C9 neoantigen/creatinine ratios increased and were significantly higher in women who developed preeclampsia. Plasma concentrations did not change with gestation. Urine plasmin(ogen) correlated to urine C3dg (r = 0.51, P < 0.001) and C9 neoantigen (r = 0.68, P < 0.001); urine albumin correlated to C3dg (r = 0.44, P < 0.001) and C9 (r = 0.59, P < 0.001). Membrane-associated C3dg and C9 neoantigen was detected in urinary extracellular vesicles from patients but not controls at 36 weeks. Receiver operating characteristic curves showed that C3dg and C9 neoantigen were inferior to albumin as predictive biomarkers for preeclampsia. CONCLUSION In preeclampsia, urinary excretion of activated complement relates significantly to albuminuria and to plasmin(ogen) but not to activation in plasma. Intratubular complement activation in preeclampsia is a postfiltration event tightly related to proteinuria/plasminogenuria and a possible mechanistic link to cellular damage and kidney injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustaf L Isaksson
- Department of Nephrology, Odense University Hospital, Odense
- Department of Molecular Medicine - Cardiovascular and Renal Research, University of Southern Denmark
| | - Lise H Nielsen
- Department of Clinical Medicine - Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aarhus University, Aarhus
| | - Yaseelan Palarasah
- Department of Molecular Medicine - Cancer and Inflammation, University of Southern Denmark
| | - Dorte M Jensen
- Steno Diabetes Center Odense, Odense University Hospital
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark
| | - Lise L T Andersen
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Odense University Hospital
| | - Kirsten Madsen
- Department of Molecular Medicine - Cardiovascular and Renal Research, University of Southern Denmark
- Department of Pathology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Claus Bistrup
- Department of Nephrology, Odense University Hospital, Odense
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark
| | - Jan S Jørgensen
- Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Odense University Hospital
| | - Per G Ovesen
- Department of Clinical Medicine - Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aarhus University, Aarhus
| | - Boye L Jensen
- Department of Molecular Medicine - Cardiovascular and Renal Research, University of Southern Denmark
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Gómez-Seguí I, Pascual Izquierdo C, Mingot Castellano ME, de la Rubia Comos J. An update on the pathogenesis and diagnosis of thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura. Expert Rev Hematol 2023; 16:17-32. [PMID: 36537217 DOI: 10.1080/17474086.2023.2159803] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Severe ADAMTS13 deficiency defines thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP). ADAMTS13 is responsible for VWF cleavage. In the absence of this enzyme, widespread thrombi formation occurs, causing microangiopathic anemia and thrombocytopenia and leading to ischemic organ injury. Understanding ADAMTS13 function is crucial to diagnose and manage TTP, both in the immune and hereditary forms. AREAS COVERED The role of ADAMTS13 in coagulation homeostasis and the consequences of its deficiency are detailed. Other factors that modulate the consequences of ADAMTS13 deficiency are explained, such as complement system activation, genetic predisposition, or the presence of an inflammatory status. Clinical suspicion of TTP is crucial to start prompt treatment and avoid mortality and sequelae. Available techniques to diagnose this deficiency and detect autoantibodies or gene mutations are presented, as they have become faster and more available in recent years. EXPERT OPINION A better knowledge of TTP pathophysiology is leading to an improvement in diagnosis and follow-up, as well as a customized treatment in patients with TTP. This scenario is necessary to define the role of new targeted therapies already available or coming soon and the need to better diagnose and monitor at the molecular level the evolution of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inés Gómez-Seguí
- Servicio de Hematología y Hemoterapia, Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe, Avda, Fernando Abril Martorell, 106, 46026, Valencia, Spain
| | - Cristina Pascual Izquierdo
- Servicio de Hematología y Hemoterapia, Hospital General Universitario Gregorio Marañón, Instituto de Investigación Gregorio Marañón, Calle Dr. Esquerdo 46, 28007, Madrid, Spain
| | - María Eva Mingot Castellano
- Servicio de Hematología, Área de Banco de Sangre y Establecimiento de Tejidos, Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocío, Calle Manuel Siurot s/n, 41013, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Javier de la Rubia Comos
- Servicio de Hematología y Hemoterapia, Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe, Avda, Fernando Abril Martorell, 106, 46026, Valencia, Spain.,School of Medicine and Dentistry, Catholic University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
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15
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Sun X, Jin J, Zhang YL, Ma Y, Zhang S, Tong X. Decreased histidine-rich glycoprotein and increased complement C4-B protein levels in follicular fluid predict the IVF outcomes of recurrent spontaneous abortion. Clin Proteomics 2022; 19:47. [PMID: 36528562 PMCID: PMC9758815 DOI: 10.1186/s12014-022-09383-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) is a common and complicated pregnancy-related disease that lacks a suitable biomarker to predict its recrudescence. METHODS Tandem mass tag (TMT) analysis was conducted to obtain quantitative proteomic profiles in follicular fluid from patients with a history of RSA and from control group. ELISA validation of candidate differentially expressed proteins was conducted in a larger group of patients. RESULTS A total of 836 proteins were identified by TMT analysis; 51 were upregulated and 47 were downregulated in follicular fluid from cases of RSA versus control group. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis revealed several important pathways were enriched, involving a dysregulated immunoglobulin Fc receptor signaling pathway and overactivated complement cascade pathways. ELISA validated the differential expression of two proteins, histidine-rich globulin (HRG) and complement C4-B (C4B), which were downregulated and upregulated, respectively, in follicular fluid of patients with RSA. We performed receiver operating characteristic curve analysis of the ELISA results with the outcomes of current IVF cycles as classification variables. The area under the curve results for HRG alone, C4B alone and HRG-C4B combined were 0.785, 0.710 and 0.895, respectively. CONCLUSIONS TMT analysis identified 98 differentially expressed proteins in follicular fluid from patients with RSA, indicating follicle factors that act as early warning factors for the occurrence of RSA. Among them, HRG and C4B provide candidate markers to predict the clinical outcomes of IVF/ICSI cycles, and the potential for modeling an early detection system for RSA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaohe Sun
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XAssisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No. 3 East Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, 310000 China ,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiamin Jin
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XAssisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No. 3 East Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, 310000 China ,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yin-Li Zhang
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XAssisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No. 3 East Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, 310000 China ,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yerong Ma
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XAssisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No. 3 East Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, 310000 China ,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Songying Zhang
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XAssisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No. 3 East Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, 310000 China ,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaomei Tong
- grid.13402.340000 0004 1759 700XAssisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, No. 3 East Qingchun Road, Hangzhou, 310000 China ,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Management of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, China
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Castellanos Gutierrez AS, Figueras F, Morales-Prieto DM, Schleußner E, Espinosa G, Baños N. Placental damage in pregnancies with systemic lupus erythematosus: A narrative review. Front Immunol 2022; 13:941586. [PMID: 36059466 PMCID: PMC9428442 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.941586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disease of unknown cause, which mainly affects women of childbearing age, especially between 15 and 55 years of age. During pregnancy, SLE is associated with a high risk of perinatal morbidity and mortality. Among the most frequent complications are spontaneous abortion, fetal death, prematurity, intrauterine Fetal growth restriction (FGR), and preeclampsia (PE). The pathophysiology underlying obstetric mortality and morbidity in SLE is still under investigation, but several studies in recent years have suggested that placental dysfunction may play a crucial role. Understanding this association will contribute to developing therapeutic options and improving patient management thus reducing the occurrence of adverse pregnancy outcomes in this group of women. In this review, we will focus on the relationship between SLE and placental insufficiency leading to adverse pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleida Susana Castellanos Gutierrez
- BCNatal, Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu), Institut Clínic de Ginecologia, Obstetrícia i Neonatologia Fetal i+D Fetal Medicine Research Center, Barcelona, Spain
- Placenta Lab, Department of Obstetrics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Francesc Figueras
- BCNatal, Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu), Institut Clínic de Ginecologia, Obstetrícia i Neonatologia Fetal i+D Fetal Medicine Research Center, Barcelona, Spain
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Diana M. Morales-Prieto
- Placenta Lab, Department of Obstetrics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
- *Correspondence: Núria Baños, ; Diana M. Morales-Prieto,
| | - Ekkehard Schleußner
- Placenta Lab, Department of Obstetrics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Gerard Espinosa
- Institut d’Investigacions Biomèdiques Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Barcelona, Spain
- Department of Autoimmune Diseases, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Núria Baños
- BCNatal, Barcelona Center for Maternal-Fetal and Neonatal Medicine (Hospital Clínic and Hospital Sant Joan de Déu), Institut Clínic de Ginecologia, Obstetrícia i Neonatologia Fetal i+D Fetal Medicine Research Center, Barcelona, Spain
- *Correspondence: Núria Baños, ; Diana M. Morales-Prieto,
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17
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Livson S, Virtanen S, Lokki AI, Holster T, Rahkonen L, Kalliala I, Nieminen P, Salonen A, Meri S. Cervicovaginal Complement Activation and Microbiota During Pregnancy and in Parturition. Front Immunol 2022; 13:925630. [PMID: 35958597 PMCID: PMC9358961 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.925630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Vaginal microbiome and the local innate immune defense, including the complement system, contribute to anti- and proinflammatory homeostasis during pregnancy and parturition. The relationship between commensal vaginal bacteria and complement activation during pregnancy and delivery is not known. Objective To study the association of the cervicovaginal microbiota composition to activation and regulation of the complement system during pregnancy and labor. Study design We recruited women during late pregnancy (weeks 41 + 5 to 42 + 0, n=48) and women in active labor (weeks 38 + 4 to 42 + 2, n=25). Mucosal swabs were taken from the external cervix and lateral fornix of the vagina. From the same sampling site, microbiota was analyzed with 16S RNA gene amplicon sequencing. A Western blot technique was used to detect complement C3, C4 and factor B activation and presence of complement inhibitors. For semiquantitative analysis, the bands of the electrophoresed proteins in gels were digitized on a flatbed photo scanner and staining intensities were analyzed using ImageJ/Fiji win-64 software. Patient data was collected from medical records and questionnaires. Results The vaginal microbiota was Lactobacillus-dominant in most of the samples (n=60), L. iners and L. crispatus being the dominant species. L. gasseri and L. jensenii were found to be more abundant during pregnancy than active labor. L. jensenii abundance correlated with C4 activation during pregnancy but not in labor. Gardnerella vaginalis was associated with C4 activation both during pregnancy and labor. The amount of L. gasseri correlated with factor B activation during pregnancy but not during labor. Atopobium vaginae was more abundant during pregnancy than labor and correlated with C4 activation during labor and with factor B activation during pregnancy. Activation of the alternative pathway factor B was significantly stronger during pregnancy compared to labor. During labor complement activation may be inhibited by the abundant presence of factor H and FHL1. Conclusions These results indicate that bacterial composition of the vaginal microbiota could have a role in the local activation and regulation of complement-mediated inflammation during pregnancy. At the time of parturition complement activation appears to be more strictly regulated than during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sivan Livson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Bacteriology and Immunology and Translational Immunology Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- *Correspondence: Sivan Livson,
| | - Seppo Virtanen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Human Microbiome Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - A. Inkeri Lokki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Bacteriology and Immunology and Translational Immunology Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Tiina Holster
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Leena Rahkonen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Ilkka Kalliala
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Human Microbiome Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Pekka Nieminen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Human Microbiome Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Anne Salonen
- Human Microbiome Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Seppo Meri
- Department of Bacteriology and Immunology and Translational Immunology Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
- Hospital District of Helsinki and Uusimaa (HUS) Diagnostic Center, Hospital District of Helsinki and Uusimaa laboratorio (HUSLAB), Helsinki University Hospital Laboratory, Helsinki, Finland
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18
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Moroni G, Calatroni M, Ponticelli C. The Impact of Preeclampsia in Lupus Nephritis. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2022; 18:1-13. [PMID: 35510378 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2022.2074399] [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: 01/20/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), particularly those with lupus nephritis (LN), remain at high risk for adverse pregnancy outcome. Although in the last decades maternal and fetal outcomes have improved dramatically, preeclampsia remains a major cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. AREAS COVERED A narrative review of literature was conducted, underlying the importance of pre-conception counseling, and focusing on the correlation between preeclampsia and LN. The clinical characteristics of preeclampsia were described, with emphasis on risk factors in LN and the differential diagnosis between preeclampsia and lupus flares. Additionally, the prevention and treatment of preeclampsia were discussed, as well as the management of short-term and long-term consequences of preeclampsia. We highlight the importance of a pre-pregnancy counseling from a multidisciplinary team to plan pregnancy during inactive SLE and LN. EXPERT OPINION Further studies are needed to evaluate the long-term consequences of pregnancy in LN. Considering that preeclamptic patients can be at high risk for long-term renal failure, we suggest renal checkup for at least 6-12 months after delivery in all patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella Moroni
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
- Nephrology and Dialysis Division, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Marta Calatroni
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy
- Nephrology and Dialysis Division, IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Milan, Italy
| | - Claudio Ponticelli
- Independent Researcher, Past Director Nephrology Policlinico, Milan, Italy
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Gan Q, Ye W, Zhao X, Teng Y, Mei S, Long Y, Ma J, Rehemutula R, Zhang X, Zeng F, Jin H, Liu F, Huang Y, Gao X, Zhu C. Mediating effects of gut microbiota in the associations of air pollutants exposure with adverse pregnancy outcomes. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2022; 234:113371. [PMID: 35248925 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2022.113371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/01/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to investigate alterations in gut microbiota after exposure to air pollutants during pregnancy and its mediation effect in inducing adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs). METHODS Participants (n = 916) were enrolled between 2017 and 2018 from a prospective cohort study of pregnant women in Guangzhou, China. The relative abundance of fecal microbiota was profiled using 16SrRNA V4 region sequencing. Exposure to air pollutants in each trimester of pregnancy was assessed using measurements from the nearest monitoring station. APOs including pre-term birth (PTB), post-term birth (POTB), low birth weight (LBW), macrosomia fetus (MF), birth defects (BDs), pathological cesarean section (PCS) and postpartum hemorrhage (PPH)) were determined by referring to reliable clinical records and diagnostic criteria. Univariate analysis, multivariate analysis and mediation analysis were performed to estimate the association among air pollutants, gut microbiota and APOs. RESULTS Air pollutants exposure during pregnancy was significantly correlated with the alterations in the gut microbiota, and increased risks of various APOs by 1.07-1.36-fold (P < 0.05). The mediation analyses indicated that alterations in Eggerthella, Phascolarctobacterium and Clostridium partially mediated the effects of air pollutants exposure (PM2.5, PM10, O3, NO2 and SO2) on APOs. The relative abundance of f_Micrococcaceae explained 11.39%, 64.90% and 54.80% of the correlation between SO2, PM2.5, PM10 and POTB, respectively; whereas g_Rothia explained 11.97%, 67.80% and 54.50%, respectively. g_Parabacteroides explained 53.0% of the correlation between PM2.5 and PTB. CONCLUSIONS Increased air pollutants exposure during pregnancy may induce adverse pregnancy outcomes via alteration of the gut microbiota.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiangsheng Gan
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, China
| | - Weitao Ye
- Guangzhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Guangzhou 510440, China
| | - Xueqin Zhao
- Department of Laboratory, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Centre, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, China
| | - Yaoyao Teng
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, China
| | - Shanshan Mei
- Department of Laboratory, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Centre, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, China
| | - Yan Long
- Department of Laboratory, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Centre, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, China
| | - Jun Ma
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, China
| | - Rehemayi Rehemutula
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, China
| | - Xiaoyan Zhang
- Department of Laboratory, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Centre, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, China
| | - Fangling Zeng
- Department of Laboratory, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Centre, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, China
| | - Hongmei Jin
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, China
| | - Fei Liu
- Department of Laboratory, Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Centre, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 510623, China
| | - Yaogang Huang
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, China
| | - Xiaoli Gao
- Faculty of Dentistry, National University of Singapore, Singapore; Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Chunyan Zhu
- Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou 511436, China.
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20
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Molecular Advances in Preeclampsia and HELLP Syndrome. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23073851. [PMID: 35409211 PMCID: PMC8999044 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23073851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) constitutes one of the principal reasons for maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. The circumstance typically implicates formerly healthful normotensive women, after 20 weeks of gestation, typically withinside the third trimester, without regarded threat elements or past deliveries. PE can be further complicated with hemolysis and thrombocytopenia, leading to the emergence of HELLP syndrome (Hemolysis, Elevated Liver enzymes, Low platelets). Both conditions are classified as hypertensive diseases of pregnancy (HDP), and their pathogenesis has been linked to an excessive maternal inflammatory response, accompanied by enhanced endothelial activation. Several studies have found that in pregnancies affected by PE/HELLP, von Willebrand factor (vWF) antigen levels (vWF:Ag) are significantly elevated, while its cleaving protease (ADAMTS-13, A Disintegrin-like and Metalloprotease with Thrombospondin type 1 motif, member 13) activity is normal to decreased. Furthermore, the higher urine excretion of the terminal complement complex C5b-9, as well as its greater deposition in the placental surface in preeclamptic women, imply that the utero-placental unit’s distinctive deficits are intimately tied to disproportionate complement activation. The goal of this updated evaluation is to provide the most up-to-date molecular advances in the pathophysiology of PE/HELLP syndromes. Recent medical data on vWF:Ag levels in patients with PE, ADAMTS-13, and dysregulation of the complement system, are highlighted and evaluated. Furthermore, we discuss the relationship between those entities and the progression of the disease, as well as their significance in the diagnostic process. Finally, considering the difficulties in analyzing and controlling those symptoms in pregnant women, we can provide a current diagnostic and therapeutic algorithm.
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Cavalli S, Lonati PA, Gerosa M, Caporali R, Cimaz R, Chighizola CB. Beyond Systemic Lupus Erythematosus and Anti-Phospholipid Syndrome: The Relevance of Complement From Pathogenesis to Pregnancy Outcome in Other Systemic Rheumatologic Diseases. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:841785. [PMID: 35242041 PMCID: PMC8886148 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.841785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Evidence about the relevance of the complement system, a highly conserved constituent of the innate immunity response that orchestrates the elimination of pathogens and the inflammatory processes, has been recently accumulated in many different rheumatologic conditions. In rheumatoid arthritis, complement, mainly the classical pathway, contributes to tissue damage especially in seropositive subjects, with complement activation occurring in the joint. Data about complement pathways in psoriatic arthritis are dated and poorly consistent; among patients with Sjögren syndrome, hypocomplementemia exerts a prognostic role, identifying patients at risk of extra-glandular manifestations. Hints about complement involvement in systemic sclerosis have been recently raised, following the evidence of complement deposition in affected skin and in renal samples from patients with scleroderma renal crisis. In vasculitides, complement plays a dual role: on one hand, stimulation of neutrophils with anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (ANCA) results in the activation of the alternative pathway, on the other, C5a induces translocation of ANCA antigens, favouring the detrimental role of antibodies. Complement deposition in the kidneys identifies patients with more aggressive renal disease; patients with active disease display low serum levels of C3 and C4. Even though in dermatomyositis sC5b-9 deposits are invariably present in affected muscles, data on C3 and C4 fluctuation during disease course are scarce. C3 and C1q serum levels have been explored as potential markers of disease activity in Takayasu arteritis, whereas data in Behçet disease are limited to in vitro observations. Pregnancies in women with rheumatologic conditions are still burdened by a higher rate of pregnancy complications, thus the early identification of women at risk would be invaluable. A fine-tuning of complement activation is required from a physiological progression of pregnancy, from pre-implantation stages, through placentation to labour. Complement deregulation has been implicated in several pregnancy complications, such as recurrent abortion, eclampsia and premature birth; low complement levels have been shown to reliably identify women at risk of complications. Given its physiologic role in orchestrating pregnancy progression and its involvement as pathogenic effector in several rheumatologic conditions, complement system is an attractive candidate biomarker to stratify the obstetric risk among women with rheumatologic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Cavalli
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Research Center for Adult and Pediatric Rheumatic Diseases, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Clinical Rheumatology Unit, ASST G. Pini & CTO, Milan, Italy
| | - Paola Adele Lonati
- Experimental Laboratory of Immunorheumatological Researches, IRCCS Istituto Auxologico Italiano, Cusano Milanino, Italy
| | - Maria Gerosa
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Research Center for Adult and Pediatric Rheumatic Diseases, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Clinical Rheumatology Unit, ASST G. Pini & CTO, Milan, Italy
| | - Roberto Caporali
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Research Center for Adult and Pediatric Rheumatic Diseases, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Clinical Rheumatology Unit, ASST G. Pini & CTO, Milan, Italy
| | - Rolando Cimaz
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Research Center for Adult and Pediatric Rheumatic Diseases, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Pediatric Rheumatology Unit, ASST G. Pini & CTO, Milan, Italy
| | - Cecilia Beatrice Chighizola
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Research Center for Adult and Pediatric Rheumatic Diseases, University of Milan, Milan, Italy.,Pediatric Rheumatology Unit, ASST G. Pini & CTO, Milan, Italy
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22
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Hanna RM, Henriksen K, Kalantar-Zadeh K, Ferrey A, Burwick R, Jhaveri KD. Thrombotic Microangiopathy Syndromes-Common Ground and Distinct Frontiers. Adv Chronic Kidney Dis 2022; 29:149-160.e1. [PMID: 35817522 DOI: 10.1053/j.ackd.2021.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Thrombotic microangiopathies (TMAs) have in common a terminal phenotype of microangiopathic hemolytic anemia with end-organ dysfunction. Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura results from von Willebrand factor multimerization, Shiga toxin-mediated hemolytic uremic syndrome causes toxin-induced endothelial dysfunction, while atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome results from complement system dysregulation. Drug-induced TMA, rheumatological disease-induced TMA, and renal-limited TMA exist in an intermediate space that represents secondary complement activation and may overlap with atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome clinically. The existence of TMA without microangiopathic hemolytic features, renal-limited TMA, represents an undiscovered syndrome that responds incompletely and inconsistently to complement blockade. Hematopoietic stem cell transplant-TMA represents another more resistant form of TMA with different therapeutic needs and clinical course. It has become apparent that TMA syndromes are an emerging field in nephrology, rheumatology, and hematology. Much work remains in genetics, molecular biology, and therapeutics to unravel the puzzle of the relationships and distinctions apparent between the different subclasses of TMA syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramy M Hanna
- UCI Medical Center Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of California Irvine, Orange, CA.
| | - Kammi Henriksen
- Department of Pathology, University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL
| | - Kamyar Kalantar-Zadeh
- UCI Medical Center Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of California Irvine, Orange, CA
| | - Antoney Ferrey
- UCI Medical Center Department of Medicine, Division of Nephrology, University of California Irvine, Orange, CA
| | - Richard Burwick
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Kenar D Jhaveri
- Glomerular Disease Center at Northwell Health, Division of Kidney Diseases and Hypertension, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Great Neck, NY
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Complement activation and regulation in preeclampsia and hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count syndrome. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2022; 226:S1059-S1070. [PMID: 32986992 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2020.09.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2020] [Revised: 09/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The complement system is critical to human health owing to its central role in host defense and innate immunity. During pregnancy, the complement system must be appropriately regulated to allow for immunologic tolerance to the developing fetus and placenta. Although some degree of complement activation can be seen in normal pregnancy, the fetus seems to be protected in part through the placental expression of complement regulatory proteins, which inhibit complement activation at different steps along the complement activation cascade. In women who develop preeclampsia and hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count syndrome, there is a shift toward increased complement activation and decreased complement regulation. There is an increase in placental deposition of C5b-9, which is the terminal effector of classical, lectin, and alternative complement pathways. C5b-9 deposition stimulates trophoblasts to secrete soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1, which sequesters vascular endothelial growth factor and placental growth factor. Pathogenic mutations or deletions in complement regulatory genes, which predispose to increased complement activation, have been detected in women with preeclampsia and hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count syndrome. Before the disease, biomarkers of alternative complement pathway activation are increased; during active disease, biomarkers of terminal complement pathway activation are increased. Urinary excretion of C5b-9 is associated with preeclampsia with severe features and distinguishes it from other hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Taken together, existing data link preeclampsia and hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count syndrome with increased activation of the terminal complement pathway that, in some cases, may be influenced by genetic alterations in complement regulators. These findings suggest that the inhibition of the terminal complement pathway, possibly through C5 blockade, may be an effective strategy to treat preeclampsia and hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelet count syndrome, but this strategy warrants further evaluation in clinical trials.
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Scully M. How to evaluate and treat the spectrum of TMA syndromes in pregnancy. HEMATOLOGY. AMERICAN SOCIETY OF HEMATOLOGY. EDUCATION PROGRAM 2021; 2021:545-551. [PMID: 34889427 PMCID: PMC8791125 DOI: 10.1182/hematology.2021000290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) is the broad definition for thrombocytopenia, microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, and end-organ damage. Two important categories are thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) and complement-mediated hemolytic-uremic syndrome (CM-HUS). Pregnancy and the immediate postpartum period are associated with TMAs specific to pregnancy in rare situations. These include pregnancy-induced hypertension, preeclampsia, and hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelets. TTP and CM-HUS may present in pregnancy. However, the diagnosis may not be immediately obvious as they share characteristics of pregnancy-related TMAs. Within this review, we discuss investigations, differential diagnosis of TMAs in pregnancy, and management. The importance is a risk of maternal mortality but also poor fetal outcomes in relation to TTP and CM-HUS. Treatment of these disorders at presentation in pregnancy is discussed to achieve remission and prolong fetal viability if possible. In subsequent pregnancies, a treatment pathway is presented that has been associated with successful maternal and fetal outcomes. Critical to this is a multidisciplinary approach involving obstetricians, the fetal medicine unit, and neonatologists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Scully
- Correspondence Marie Scully, Department of Haematology, University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Cardiometabolic Programme-NIHR UCLH/UC BRC, 250 Euston Rd, London NW1 2PG, UK; e-mail:
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Ancuța E, Zamfir R, Martinescu G, Crauciuc DV, Ancuța C. The Complement System, T Cell Response, and Cytokine Shift in Normotensive versus Pre-Eclamptic and Lupus Pregnancy. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10245722. [PMID: 34945017 PMCID: PMC8705505 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10245722] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Successful pregnancy requires an immunological shift with T helper CD4+ bias based on disbalance Th1/Th17 versus Th2/T regulatory (Tregs) required to induce tolerance against the semi-allogeneic fetus and placenta and to support fetal growth. Considered a pregnancy-specific hypertensive disorder, pre-eclampsia is characterized by multifaceted organ involvement related to impaired maternal immune tolerance to paternal antigens triggered by hypoxic placental injury as well as excessive local and systemic anti-angiogenic and inflammatory factor synthesis. Both systemic and local Th1/Th2 shift further expands to Th17 cells and their cytokines (IL-17) complemented by suppressive Treg and Th2 cytokines (IL-10, IL-4); alterations in Th17 and Tregs cause hypertension during pregnancy throughout vasoactive factors and endothelial dysfunction, providing an explanatory link between immunological and vascular events in the pathobiology of pre-eclamptic pregnancy. Apart from immunological changes representative of normotensive pregnancy, lupus pregnancy is generally defined by higher serum pro-inflammatory cytokines, lower Th2 polarization, defective and lower number of Tregs, potential blockade of complement inhibitors by anti-phospholipid antibodies, and similar immune alterations to those seen in pre-eclampsia. The current review underpins the immune mechanisms of pre-eclampsia focusing on local (placental) and systemic (maternal) aberrant adaptive and innate immune response versus normotensive pregnancy and pregnancy in systemic autoimmune conditions, particularly lupus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugen Ancuța
- Research Department, “Elena Doamna” Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinical Hospital, 700398 Iași, Romania; (E.A.); (G.M.)
| | - Radu Zamfir
- Fundeni Clinical Institute, 022328 București, Romania;
| | - Gabriel Martinescu
- Research Department, “Elena Doamna” Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinical Hospital, 700398 Iași, Romania; (E.A.); (G.M.)
| | - Dragoș Valentin Crauciuc
- Department of Internal Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iași, Romania
- Correspondence: (D.V.C.); or (C.A.); Tel.: +40-740036387 (C.A.)
| | - Codrina Ancuța
- Department of Internal Medicine, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iași, Romania
- 2nd Rheumatology Department, Clinical Rehabilitation Hospital, 700661 Iași, Romania
- Correspondence: (D.V.C.); or (C.A.); Tel.: +40-740036387 (C.A.)
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Mesenchymal stem cell therapy attenuates complement C3 deposition and improves the delicate equilibrium between angiogenic and anti-angiogenic factors in abortion-prone mice. Mol Immunol 2021; 141:246-256. [PMID: 34875452 DOI: 10.1016/j.molimm.2021.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Immunological disorders are one of the main causes of recurrent spontaneous abortions (RSA). A rapidly expanding body of evidence indicates that excessive activation of the complement system is critically involved in the development of miscarriages. In the CBA/J × DBA/2 murine model of recurrent miscarriage, exaggerated and unrestrained complement activation is reported to be the underlying cause of angiogenic factor imbalance and persistent inflammation. We have previously shown that mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy can significantly reduce the abortion rate in abortion-prone mice through regulating the feto-maternal immune response. In the present study, we hypothesized that MSCs might improve the balance of angiogenic factors at the feto-maternal unit of CBA/J × DBA/2 mice by restraining complement activation and deposition. To explore this hypothesis, autologous adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AD-MSCs) were administered intra-peritoneally to abortion-prone mice on the 4.5th day of gestation. Control mice received PBS as vehicle. On day 13.5 of pregnancy, deposition of the complement component C3 and expression levels of Crry, CFD (adipsin), VEGF, PlGF and FLT-1 were measured at the feto-maternal interface by immunohistochemistry and real-time PCR, respectively. Decidual cells were also cultured in RPMI 1640 medium for 48 h and VEGF and sFLT-1 protein levels were quantified in supernatants using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Our results indicated that MSC therapy significantly reduced C3 deposition and adipsin transcription in the fetal-maternal interface of abortion-prone mice. Furthermore, administration of MSCs robustly upregulated the mRNA expression levels of Crry, VEGF, PlGF and FLT-1 in the placenta and decidua of CBA/J × DBA/2 mice. Consistently, the in vitro results demonstrated that decidual cells obtained from MSC-treated dams produced increased concentrations of VEGF in culture supernatants, with concomitant decreased levels of sFLT-1 protein. Here, we show for the first time that adoptive transfer of MSCs rectifies the disturbed balance of angiogenic factors observed at the feto-maternal unit of CBA/J × DBA/2 mice, in part at least, through inhibiting excessive complement activation and promoting the production of angiogenic factors. Collectively, these alterations seem to play a pivotal role in reducing the abortion rate and improving the intrauterine condition for the benefit of the fetus.
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Kennelly MA, Killeen SL, Phillips CM, Alberdi G, Lindsay KL, Mehegan J, Cronin M, McAuliffe FM. Maternal C3 complement and C-reactive protein and pregnancy and fetal outcomes: A secondary analysis of the PEARS RCT-An mHealth-supported, lifestyle intervention among pregnant women with overweight and obesity. Cytokine 2021; 149:155748. [PMID: 34700074 PMCID: PMC9070411 DOI: 10.1016/j.cyto.2021.155748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Objectives: Elevated circulating levels of complement component 3 (C3) and C-reactive protein (CRP) have been linked with adverse pregnancy outcomes. Lifestyle interventions may hold potential to ameliorate these effects. We investigated the effect of an antenatal healthy lifestyle intervention on maternal C3 and CRP concentrations and assessed their relationship with maternal and fetal metabolic markers and outcomes. Study design: Secondary analysis of data from the Pregnancy Exercise And Nutrition Research Study (PEARS) randomized controlled trial. Methods: Women (n = 406) with C3 and CRP concentrations determined in early pregnancy (14–16 weeks) and/or late pregnancy (28-weeks) with corresponding fasting glucose, insulin, c-peptide, and lipid profiles were included in the analysis. Pregnancy outcomes included: diagnoses of gestational diabetes (GDM), pre-eclampsia (PET) or pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH), pre-term birth (delivery < 37 weeks), low birth weight (<2500 g), small-for-gestational age (SGA) defined using < 5th or 10th centile for birthweight and cord blood measures of glucose and lipid metabolism. T-tests investigated changes in C3 and CRP over time. Chi-square, Pearson’s’ correlations and multiple regression investigated relationships with outcomes. Results: The PEARS intervention did not influence maternal C3 or CRP concentrations in pregnancy. There was no relationship between CRP concentrations and any maternal or infant outcome. Women who developed GDM had higher C3 concentrations in early (p = 0.01) and late pregnancy (p = 0.02). Women who developed PIH/PET had lower C3 concentrations in early (p = 0.02), but not late (p = 0.10) pregnancy. Maternal C3 concentrations in early pregnancy were a small but significant predictor of maternal insulin concentrations in early (β = 0.40, 95% CI 0.27, 0.53; p < 0.001) and late (β = 0.30, 95% CI 0.17, 0.43p < 0.001) pregnancy, early total cholesterol (TC), and both early and late triglycerides, LDL and HDL Cholesterol concentrations (all p < 0.001). Women who delivered SGA babies (<10th centile) had lower C3 concentrations than women who did not in both early (p < 0.001) and late pregnancy (p = 0.01). No relationship between maternal C3 or CRP and fetal glucose concentrations or lipid profiles was observed. Conclusion: Maternal C3 may play a role in multiple adverse pregnancy outcomes including cardiometabolic ill-health. Further research on this, and strategies to reduce C3 in a pregnant population, are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria A Kennelly
- UCD Perinatal Research Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, National Maternity Hospital, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Sarah Louise Killeen
- UCD Perinatal Research Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, National Maternity Hospital, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Catherine M Phillips
- School of Public Health, Physiotherapy and Sports Science, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Gouiri Alberdi
- UCD Perinatal Research Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, National Maternity Hospital, Dublin 2, Ireland
| | - Karen L Lindsay
- UCD Perinatal Research Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, National Maternity Hospital, Dublin 2, Ireland; Department of Pediatrics, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA, USA; Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute, UCI College of Health Sciences, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - John Mehegan
- School of Public Health, Physiotherapy and Sports Science, University College Dublin, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | | | - Fionnuala M McAuliffe
- UCD Perinatal Research Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, National Maternity Hospital, Dublin 2, Ireland.
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Chen S, Li Z, He Y, Chen Q. Dysregulation of complement system in HELLP syndrome. Hypertens Pregnancy 2021; 40:303-311. [PMID: 34697959 DOI: 10.1080/10641955.2021.1983593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the expression of complement system's activation factors in patients with HELLP syndrome. METHODS A case-control study was performed. Sixteen HELLP syndrome patients, 32 severe preeclampsia patients, and 48 normal pregnancy women were involved in this studyELISA was used to test C1q, C4d, MBL, Bb, C3a, C5a, sC5b-9, s-Endoglin, and sflt-1 in the plasma. RESULTS The levels of C5a (P < 0.01) and sC5b-9 (P = 0.014) in HELLP syndrome were higher than those in severe preeclampsia patients. CONCLUSIONS The abnormal activation of the complement system is more significant in the pathogenesis of HELLP syndrome than in severe preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shi Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Zheng Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Yingdong He
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, P.R. China
| | - Qian Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University First Hospital, Beijing, P.R. China
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Storry JR, Lomas-Francis C. The Cromer blood group system: an update. Immunohematology 2021; 37:118-121. [PMID: 34591381 DOI: 10.21307/immunohematology-2021-017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
This update of the Cromer (CROM) blood group system (Storry JR, Reid ME, Yazer MH. The Cromer blood group system: a review. Immunohematology 2010;26:109-17) includes additional variants to the Cromer system (ISBT021), both new antigens and new molecular bases underlying the null phenotype. The molecule on which the Cromer blood group antigens are carried, CD55 (DAF), is an important receptor for the malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum, and the role of CD55 in health and disease continues to expand. This update of the Cromer (CROM) blood group system (Storry JR, Reid ME, Yazer MH. The Cromer blood group system: a review. Immunohematology 2010;26:109–17) includes additional variants to the Cromer system (ISBT021), both new antigens and new molecular bases underlying the null phenotype. The molecule on which the Cromer blood group antigens are carried, CD55 (DAF), is an important receptor for the malaria parasite, Plasmodium falciparum, and the role of CD55 in health and disease continues to expand.
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Affiliation(s)
- J R Storry
- Immunohematology, Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Office for Medical Services , Akutgatan 8, SE-22185, Lund , Sweden
| | - C Lomas-Francis
- Immunohematology, Clinical Immunology and Transfusion Medicine, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Office for Medical Services , Akutgatan 8, SE-22185, Lund , Sweden
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Pan ML, Chen LR, Chen KH. The Risk of Subsequent Miscarriage in Pregnant Women with Prior Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: A Nationwide Population-Based Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18168253. [PMID: 34444016 PMCID: PMC8394863 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18168253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Objective: To assess the risk of subsequent miscarriage in pregnant women with a prior diagnosis of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Methods: Using a nationwide, population-based database (Taiwan National Health Insurance Research Database) during 1998-2012, the study retrieved 1,000,000 randomly-sampled insured citizens as research subjects. The women with a diagnosis of pre-pregnancy PCOS (n = 13,562) who had chromosomal anomalies, artificial abortion, inconsistent diagnoses, and who were initially diagnosed with PCOS at >45 or <15 year-old were excluded, respectively. The records of gynecologic ultrasonography and/or blood tests were checked to verify the accuracy of the diagnoses of both PCOS and miscarriage (ICD-9 CM codes). After pregnancy, every woman with prior PCOS was age-matched to four women without prior PCOS. Results: Pregnant women with prior PCOS (the case group; n = 1926) and those without prior PCOS (the control group; n = 7704) were compared. The incidence of subsequent miscarriage was much higher in the case group compared with the control group (33.80% vs. 4.09%, p < 0.0001). Logistic regression analysis revealed that the risk of subsequent miscarriage was significantly higher in the case group than the control group (odds ratio [OR] 11.98; 95% CI 10.34-13.87, p < 0.0001), and the result remained similar while adjusted with covariates (adjusted OR 11.97; 95% CI 10.27-13.95, p < 0.0001). In the case group, the patient who used metformin had a lower risk of subsequent miscarriage (adjusted OR 9.53; 95% CI 6.69-13.57) when compared with those who did not receive metformin treatment (adjusted OR 12.13; 95% CI 10.38-14.18). Conclusion: For pregnant women, a pre-pregnancy diagnosis of PCOS is an independent and significant risk factor for subsequent miscarriage. The risk of subsequent miscarriage is reduced by about 1/4 for the PCOS patients who undergo metformin treatment compared with those who do not.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei-Lien Pan
- Institute of Information Science, Academia Sinica, Taipei 115, Taiwan;
| | - Li-Ru Chen
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei 104, Taiwan;
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu 300, Taiwan
| | - Kuo-Hu Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Tzu-Chi Hospital, Buddhist Tzu-Chi Medical Foundation, Taipei 231, Taiwan
- School of Medicine, Tzu-Chi University, Hualien 700, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-2-6628-9779; Fax: +886-2-6628-9009
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Molecular Characterisation of Uterine Endometrial Proteins during Early Stages of Pregnancy in Pigs by MALDI TOF/TOF. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22136720. [PMID: 34201586 PMCID: PMC8267828 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22136720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/18/2021] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The molecular mechanism underlying embryonic implantation is vital to understand the correct communications between endometrium and developing conceptus during early stages of pregnancy. This study’s objective was to determine molecular changes in the uterine endometrial proteome during the preimplantation and peri-implantation between 9 days (9D), 12 days (12D), and 16 days (16D) of pregnant Polish Large White (PLW) gilts. 2DE-MALDI-TOF/TOF and ClueGOTM approaches were employed to analyse the biological networks and molecular changes in porcine endometrial proteome during maternal recognition of pregnancy. A total of sixteen differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified using 2-DE gels and MALDI-TOF/TOF mass spectrometry. Comparison between 9D and 12D of pregnancy identified APOA1, CAPZB, LDHB, CCT5, ANXA4, CFB, TTR upregulated DEPs, and ANXA5, SMS downregulated DEPs. Comparison between 9D and 16D of pregnancy identified HP, APOA1, ACTB, CCT5, ANXA4, CFB upregulated DEPs and ANXA5, SMS, LDHB, ACTR3, HP, ENO3, OAT downregulated DEPs. However, a comparison between 12D and 16D of pregnancy identified HP, ACTB upregulated DEPs, and CRYM, ANXA4, ANXA5, CAPZB, LDHB, ACTR3, CCT5, ENO3, OAT, TTR down-regulated DEPs. Outcomes of this study revealed key proteins and their interactions with metabolic pathways involved in the recognition and establishment of early pregnancy in PLW gilts.
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Saadaoui M, Kumar M, Al Khodor S. COVID-19 Infection during Pregnancy: Risk of Vertical Transmission, Fetal, and Neonatal Outcomes. J Pers Med 2021; 11:483. [PMID: 34071251 PMCID: PMC8227688 DOI: 10.3390/jpm11060483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic is a worldwide, critical public health challenge and is considered one of the most communicable diseases that the world had faced so far. Response and symptoms associated with COVID-19 vary between the different cases recorded, but it is amply described that symptoms become more aggressive in subjects with a weaker immune system. This includes older subjects, patients with chronic diseases, patients with immunosuppression treatment, and pregnant women. Pregnant women are receiving more attention not only because of their altered physiological and immunological function but also for the potential risk of viral vertical transmission to the fetus or infant. However, very limited data about the impact of maternal infection during pregnancy, such as the possibility of vertical transmission in utero, during birth, or via breastfeeding, is available. Moreover, the impact of infection on the newborn in the short and long term remains poorly understood. Therefore, it is vital to collect and analyze data from pregnant women infected with COVID-19 to understand the viral pathophysiology during pregnancy and its effects on the offspring. In this article, we review the current knowledge about pre-and post-natal COVID-19 infection, and we discuss whether vertical transmission takes place in pregnant women infected with the virus and what are the current recommendations that pregnant women should follow in order to be protected from the virus.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Souhaila Al Khodor
- Research Department, Sidra Medicine, Doha P.O. Box 26999, Qatar; (M.S.); (M.K.)
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Northrop-Albrecht EJ, Rich JJJ, Cushman RA, Yao R, Ge X, Perry GA. Influence of estradiol on bovine trophectoderm and uterine gene transcripts around maternal recognition of pregnancy†. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:381-392. [PMID: 33962467 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 04/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Embryo survival and pregnancy success is increased among animals that exhibit estrus prior to fixed time-artificial insemination, but there are no differences in conceptus survival to d16. The objective of this study was to determine effects of preovulatory estradiol on uterine transcriptomes, select trophectoderm (TE) transcripts, and uterine luminal fluid proteins. Beef cows/heifers were synchronized, artificially inseminated (d0), and grouped into either high (highE2) or low (lowE2) preovulatory estradiol. Uteri were flushed (d16); conceptuses and endometrial biopsies (n = 29) were collected. RNA sequencing was performed on endometrium. Real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was performed on TE (n = 21) RNA to measure relative abundance of IFNT, PTGS2, TM4SF1, C3, FGFR2, and GAPDH. Uterine fluid was analyzed using 2D Liquid Chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry-based Isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation (iTRAQ) method. RT-PCR data were analyzed using the MIXED procedure in SAS. There were no differences in messenger RNA (mRNA) abundances in TE, but there were 432 differentially expressed genes (253 downregulated, 179 upregulated) in highE2/conceptus versus lowE2/conceptus groups. There were also 48 differentially expressed proteins (19 upregulated, 29 downregulated); 6 of these were differentially expressed (FDR < 0.10) at the mRNA level. Similar pathways for mRNA and proteins included: calcium signaling, protein kinase A signaling, and corticotropin-releasing hormone signaling. These differences in uterine function may be preparing the conceptus for improved likelihood of survival after d16 among highE2 animals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jerica J J Rich
- Department of Animal Science, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD, USA
| | - Robert A Cushman
- USDA, Agricultural Research Service, Roman L. Hruska US Meat Animal Research Center, Clay Center, NE, USA
| | - Runan Yao
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD, USA
| | - Xijin Ge
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD, USA
| | - George A Perry
- Department of Animal Science, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD, USA
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Burwick RM, Lokki AI, Fleming SD, Regal JF. Editorial: Innate Immunity in Normal and Adverse Pregnancy. Front Immunol 2021; 12:646596. [PMID: 33679810 PMCID: PMC7930370 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.646596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Richard M Burwick
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - A Inkeri Lokki
- Bacteriology and Immunology, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Research Programs' Unit, Translational Immunology Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Obstetrics and Gynecology, Helsinki University Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sherry D Fleming
- Division of Biology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, United States
| | - Jean F Regal
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth, MN, United States
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Collier ARY, Smith LA, Karumanchi SA. Review of the immune mechanisms of preeclampsia and the potential of immune modulating therapy. Hum Immunol 2021; 82:362-370. [PMID: 33551128 DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2021.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Successful pregnancy relies on maternal immunologic tolerance mechanisms limit maladaptive immune responses against the semi-allogeneic fetus and placenta and support fetal growth. Preeclampsia is a common disorder of pregnancy that affects 4-10% of pregnancies and is a leading cause of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Preeclampsia clinically manifests as maternal hypertension, proteinuria, and progressive multi-organ injury likely triggered by hypoxic injury to the placenta, resulting in local and systemic anti-angiogenic and inflammatory factor production. Despite the steady rising rates of preeclampsia in the United States, effective treatment options are limited to delivery, which improves maternal status often at the cost of prematurity in the newborn. Preeclampsia also increases the lifelong risk of cardiovascular disease for both mother and infant. Thus, identifying new therapeutic targets is a high priority area to improve maternal, fetal, and infant health outcomes. Immune abnormalities in the placenta and in the maternal circulation have been reported to precede the clinical onset of disease. In particular, excessive systemic and placental complement activation and impaired adaptive T cell tolerance with Th1/Th2/Th17/Treg imbalance has been reported in humans and in animal models of preeclampsia. In this review, we focus on the evidence for the immune origins of preeclampsia, discuss the promise of immune modulating therapy for prevention or treatment, and highlight key areas for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ai-Ris Y Collier
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Center for Virology and Vaccine Research, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA.
| | - Laura A Smith
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - S Ananth Karumanchi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA; Center for Vascular Biology Research, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Medicine, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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Diniz WJS, Crouse MS, Cushman RA, McLean KJ, Caton JS, Dahlen CR, Reynolds LP, Ward AK. Cerebrum, liver, and muscle regulatory networks uncover maternal nutrition effects in developmental programming of beef cattle during early pregnancy. Sci Rep 2021; 11:2771. [PMID: 33531552 PMCID: PMC7854659 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-82156-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The molecular basis underlying fetal programming in response to maternal nutrition remains unclear. Herein, we investigated the regulatory relationships between genes in fetal cerebrum, liver, and muscle tissues to shed light on the putative mechanisms that underlie the effects of early maternal nutrient restriction on bovine developmental programming. To this end, cerebrum, liver, and muscle gene expression were measured with RNA-Seq in 14 fetuses collected on day 50 of gestation from dams fed a diet initiated at breeding to either achieve 60% (RES, n = 7) or 100% (CON, n = 7) of energy requirements. To build a tissue-to-tissue gene network, we prioritized tissue-specific genes, transcription factors, and differentially expressed genes. Furthermore, we built condition-specific networks to identify differentially co-expressed or connected genes. Nutrient restriction led to differential tissue regulation between the treatments. Myogenic factors differentially regulated by ZBTB33 and ZNF131 may negatively affect myogenesis. Additionally, nutrient-sensing pathways, such as mTOR and PI3K/Akt, were affected by gene expression changes in response to nutrient restriction. By unveiling the network properties, we identified major regulators driving gene expression. However, further research is still needed to determine the impact of early maternal nutrition and strategic supplementation on pre- and post-natal performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wellison J. S. Diniz
- grid.261055.50000 0001 2293 4611Department of Animal Sciences, Center for Nutrition and Pregnancy, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND USA
| | - Matthew S. Crouse
- grid.463419.d0000 0001 0946 3608USDA, ARS, U.S. Meat Animal Research Center, Clay Center, NE USA
| | - Robert A. Cushman
- grid.463419.d0000 0001 0946 3608USDA, ARS, U.S. Meat Animal Research Center, Clay Center, NE USA
| | - Kyle J. McLean
- grid.411461.70000 0001 2315 1184Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN USA
| | - Joel S. Caton
- grid.261055.50000 0001 2293 4611Department of Animal Sciences, Center for Nutrition and Pregnancy, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND USA
| | - Carl R. Dahlen
- grid.261055.50000 0001 2293 4611Department of Animal Sciences, Center for Nutrition and Pregnancy, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND USA
| | - Lawrence P. Reynolds
- grid.261055.50000 0001 2293 4611Department of Animal Sciences, Center for Nutrition and Pregnancy, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND USA
| | - Alison K. Ward
- grid.261055.50000 0001 2293 4611Department of Animal Sciences, Center for Nutrition and Pregnancy, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND USA
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Livson S, Jarva H, Kalliala I, Lokki AI, Heikkinen-Eloranta J, Nieminen P, Meri S. Activation of the Complement System in the Lower Genital Tract During Pregnancy and Delivery. Front Immunol 2021; 11:563073. [PMID: 33505390 PMCID: PMC7829332 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.563073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Human pregnancy alters profoundly the immune system. The local involvement and mechanisms of activation of the complement system in the cervicovaginal milieu during pregnancy and delivery remain unexplored. Objectives To determine whether normal pregnancy and delivery are associated with local activation of complement or changes in the immunoglobulin profile in the cervix. Study Design This study was designed to assess IgA, IgG, and complement activation in the cervicovaginal area in three groups of patients: i) 49 pregnant women (week 41+3–42+0) not in active labor, ii) 24 women in active labor (38+4–42+2), and iii) a control group of nonpregnant women (n=23) at child-bearing age. We collected mucosal samples from the lateral fornix of the vagina and external cervix during routine visits and delivery. The Western blot technique was used to detect complement C3 and its activation products. For semiquantitative analysis, the bands of the electrophoresed proteins in gels were digitized on a flatbed photo scanner and analyzed. IgA and IgG were analyzed by Western blotting and quantified by ELISA. One-way ANOVA and Tukey’s Multiple Comparison tests were used for statistical comparisons. Results A higher abundance but lower activation level of C3 in both the external cervix (P<0.001) and lateral fornix of the vagina (P<0.001) was observed during delivery (58 ± 22, n= 24) in comparison to the groups of nonpregnant (72 ± 13%; mean ± SD, n=23) and pregnant women (78 ± 22%, n=49). Complement activating IgG was detected in higher abundance than IgA in the cervicovaginal secretions of pregnant women. In a small proportion samples also C3-IgG complexes were detected. Conclusions Our results reveal an unexpectedly strong activation of the complement system and the presence IgG immunoglobulins in the cervicovaginal area during pregnancy, active labor, and among nonpregnant women. In contrast to the higher amounts of C3 in the cervicovaginal secretions during labor, its activation level was lower. Complement activating IgG was detected in higher concentrations than IgA in the mucosal secretions during pregnancy and labor. Taken together our results imply the presence a locally operating humoral immune system in the cervicovaginal mucosa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sivan Livson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Bacteriology and Immunology and Translational Immunology Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Hanna Jarva
- Department of Bacteriology and Immunology and Translational Immunology Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,HUS Diagnostic Center, Helsinki University Hospital Laboratory, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Ilkka Kalliala
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Surgery and Cancer, Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.,Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - A Inkeri Lokki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Department of Bacteriology and Immunology and Translational Immunology Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Jenni Heikkinen-Eloranta
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Pekka Nieminen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,Human Microbiome Research Program, Faculty of Medicine, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Seppo Meri
- Department of Bacteriology and Immunology and Translational Immunology Research Program, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland.,HUS Diagnostic Center, Helsinki University Hospital Laboratory, Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland
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Immunological Changes in Pregnancy and Its Relation to COVID-19 Infection. COVID-19 INFECTIONS AND PREGNANCY 2021. [PMCID: PMC8298321 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-90595-4.00006-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
This chapter describes the immunological adaptation to pregnancy. A special focus is drawn on the susceptibility to viral infections, especially COVID-19. Older literature refers to the pregnancy as an immunosuppressive state, while recent studies show an immunomodulation to adapt to the growing semiallograftic fetus. Despite this, pregnant women are not susceptible to all viral infections. Regarding influenza, pregnant women are not more susceptible to the infection, but more severe maternal courses. To prevent this, influenza vaccination is recommended for pregnant women. Based on the available evidence, pregnant patients are also not more susceptible to infection with regard to COVID-19 infection. Yet, more severe courses are described throughout gestation with the onset of obstetrical complications.
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Singh T, Otero CE, Li K, Valencia SM, Nelson AN, Permar SR. Vaccines for Perinatal and Congenital Infections-How Close Are We? Front Pediatr 2020; 8:569. [PMID: 33384972 PMCID: PMC7769834 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2020.00569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Congenital and perinatal infections are transmitted from mother to infant during pregnancy across the placenta or during delivery. These infections not only cause pregnancy complications and still birth, but also result in an array of pediatric morbidities caused by physical deformities, neurodevelopmental delays, and impaired vision, mobility and hearing. Due to the burden of these conditions, congenital and perinatal infections may result in lifelong disability and profoundly impact an individual's ability to live to their fullest capacity. While there are vaccines to prevent congenital and perinatal rubella, varicella, and hepatitis B infections, many more are currently in development at various stages of progress. The spectrum of our efforts to understand and address these infections includes observational studies of natural history of disease, epidemiological evaluation of risk factors, immunogen design, preclinical research of protective immunity in animal models, and evaluation of promising candidates in vaccine trials. In this review we summarize this progress in vaccine development research for Cytomegalovirus, Group B Streptococcus, Herpes simplex virus, Human Immunodeficiency Virus, Toxoplasma, Syphilis, and Zika virus congenital and perinatal infections. We then synthesize this evidence to examine how close we are to developing a vaccine for these infections, and highlight areas where research is still needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tulika Singh
- Duke University Medical Center, Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Durham, NC, United States
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Claire E. Otero
- Duke University Medical Center, Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Katherine Li
- Duke University Medical Center, Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Sarah M. Valencia
- Duke University Medical Center, Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Ashley N. Nelson
- Duke University Medical Center, Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Durham, NC, United States
| | - Sallie R. Permar
- Duke University Medical Center, Duke Human Vaccine Institute, Durham, NC, United States
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Duke University, Durham, NC, United States
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Abstract
Recurrent pregnancy loss is a distressing pregnancy disorder experienced by ~2.5% of women trying to conceive. Recurrent pregnancy loss is defined as the failure of two or more clinically recognized pregnancies before 20-24 weeks of gestation and includes embryonic and fetal losses. The diagnosis of an early pregnancy loss is relatively straightforward, although progress in predicting and preventing recurrent pregnancy loss has been hampered by a lack of standardized definitions, the uncertainties surrounding the pathogenesis and the highly variable clinical presentation. The prognosis for couples with recurrent pregnancy loss is generally good, although the likelihood of a successful pregnancy depends on maternal age and the number of previous losses. Recurrent pregnancy loss can be caused by chromosomal errors, anatomical uterine defects, autoimmune disorders and endometrial dysfunction. Available treatments target the putative risk factors of pregnancy loss, although the effectiveness of many medical interventions is controversial. Regardless of the underlying aetiology, couples require accurate information on their chances of having a baby and appropriate support should be offered to reduce the psychological burden associated with multiple miscarriages. Future research must investigate the pathogenesis of recurrent pregnancy loss and evaluate novel diagnostic tests and treatments in adequately powered clinical trials.
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Willems E, Lorés-Motta L, Zanichelli A, Suffritti C, van der Flier M, van der Molen RG, Langereis JD, van Drongelen J, van den Heuvel LP, Volokhina E, van de Kar NC, Keizer-Garritsen J, Levin M, Herberg JA, Martinon-Torres F, Wessels HJ, de Breuk A, Fauser S, Hoyng CB, den Hollander AI, de Groot R, van Gool AJ, Gloerich J, de Jonge MI. Quantitative multiplex profiling of the complement system to diagnose complement-mediated diseases. Clin Transl Immunology 2020; 9:e1225. [PMID: 33318796 PMCID: PMC7724921 DOI: 10.1002/cti2.1225] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives Complement deficiencies are difficult to diagnose because of the variability of symptoms and the complexity of the diagnostic process. Here, we applied a novel ‘complementomics’ approach to study the impact of various complement deficiencies on circulating complement levels. Methods Using a quantitative multiplex mass spectrometry assay, we analysed 44 peptides to profile 34 complement proteins simultaneously in 40 healthy controls and 83 individuals with a diagnosed deficiency or a potential pathogenic variant in 14 different complement proteins. Results Apart from confirming near or total absence of the respective protein in plasma of complement‐deficient patients, this mass spectrometry‐based profiling method led to the identification of additional deficiencies. In many cases, partial depletion of the pathway up‐ and/or downstream of the absent protein was measured. This was especially found in patients deficient for complement inhibitors, such as angioedema patients with a C1‐inhibitor deficiency. The added value of complementomics was shown in three patients with poorly defined complement deficiencies. Conclusion Our study shows the potential clinical utility of profiling circulating complement proteins as a comprehensive read‐out of various complement deficiencies. Particularly, our approach provides insight into the intricate interplay between complement proteins due to functional coupling, which contributes to the better understanding of the various disease phenotypes and improvement of care for patients with complement‐mediated diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther Willems
- Laboratory of Medical Immunology Department of Laboratory Medicine Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen The Netherlands.,Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen The Netherlands.,Translational Metabolic Laboratory Department of Laboratory Medicine Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen The Netherlands
| | - Laura Lorés-Motta
- Department of Ophthalmology Donders Institute for Brain Cognition and Behaviour Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen The Netherlands
| | - Andrea Zanichelli
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences Luigi Sacco ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco University of Milan Milan Italy
| | - Chiara Suffritti
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences Luigi Sacco ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco University of Milan Milan Italy
| | - Michiel van der Flier
- Laboratory of Medical Immunology Department of Laboratory Medicine Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen The Netherlands.,Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen The Netherlands.,Department of Pediatrics University Medical Center Utrecht Utrecht The Netherlands.,Amalia Children's Hospital Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen The Netherlands
| | - Renate G van der Molen
- Laboratory of Medical Immunology Department of Laboratory Medicine Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen The Netherlands
| | - Jeroen D Langereis
- Laboratory of Medical Immunology Department of Laboratory Medicine Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen The Netherlands
| | - Joris van Drongelen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen The Netherlands
| | - Lambert P van den Heuvel
- Translational Metabolic Laboratory Department of Laboratory Medicine Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen The Netherlands.,Amalia Children's Hospital Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen The Netherlands
| | - Elena Volokhina
- Translational Metabolic Laboratory Department of Laboratory Medicine Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen The Netherlands.,Amalia Children's Hospital Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen The Netherlands
| | - Nicole Caj van de Kar
- Amalia Children's Hospital Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen The Netherlands
| | - Jenneke Keizer-Garritsen
- Translational Metabolic Laboratory Department of Laboratory Medicine Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen The Netherlands
| | - Michael Levin
- Department of Medicine Section for Paediatrics Imperial College London London UK
| | - Jethro A Herberg
- Department of Medicine Section for Paediatrics Imperial College London London UK
| | - Federico Martinon-Torres
- Translational Pediatrics and Infectious Diseases Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria de Santiago Hospital Clínico Universitario de Santiago Santiago de Compostela Spain
| | - Hans Jtc Wessels
- Translational Metabolic Laboratory Department of Laboratory Medicine Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen The Netherlands
| | - Anita de Breuk
- Department of Ophthalmology Donders Institute for Brain Cognition and Behaviour Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen The Netherlands
| | - Sascha Fauser
- Department of Ophthalmology University Hospital Cologne Koln Germany.,F. Hoffmann - La Roche AG Basel Switzerland
| | - Carel B Hoyng
- Department of Ophthalmology Donders Institute for Brain Cognition and Behaviour Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen The Netherlands
| | - Anneke I den Hollander
- Department of Ophthalmology Donders Institute for Brain Cognition and Behaviour Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen The Netherlands
| | - Ronald de Groot
- Laboratory of Medical Immunology Department of Laboratory Medicine Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen The Netherlands.,Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen The Netherlands
| | - Alain J van Gool
- Translational Metabolic Laboratory Department of Laboratory Medicine Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen The Netherlands
| | - Jolein Gloerich
- Translational Metabolic Laboratory Department of Laboratory Medicine Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen The Netherlands
| | - Marien I de Jonge
- Laboratory of Medical Immunology Department of Laboratory Medicine Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen The Netherlands.,Radboud Center for Infectious Diseases Radboud University Medical Center Nijmegen The Netherlands
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Puri P, Hanxhiu A, O'Hara DV, Hsu D, Vucak-Dzumhur M. A life-threatening case of pregnancy-related atypical Haemolytic uremic syndrome and successful treatment with Eculizumab. BMC Nephrol 2020; 21:488. [PMID: 33203373 PMCID: PMC7670627 DOI: 10.1186/s12882-020-02100-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 10/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pregnancy-related Atypical Haemolytic Uremic Syndrome (P-aHUS) is a rare condition affecting genetically predisposed women during pregnancy. It is often difficult to diagnose and has a significant impact on maternal and foetal outcomes. It is characterised by microangiopathic haemolytic anaemia and kidney injury from thrombotic microangiopathy. CASE PRESENTATION A 27-year-old female of Lebanese descent presented at 36 weeks' gestation with foetal death in-utero (FDIU) with placental abruption on a background of previously normal antenatal visits. She was coagulopathic and anaemic with anuric acute kidney injury, requiring emergency Caesarean section, intubation and dialysis. Her coagulopathy rapidly resolved, however, her anaemia and renal dysfunction persisted. A diagnosis of P-aHUS was made, and she was empirically treated with Eculizumab. Her ADAMTS13 level was normal, effectively excluding thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura. Within 2 weeks of treatment her haematological parameters improved, and her renal function began to recover and within 2 months she became dialysis independent. CONCLUSION This case highlights the challenges of a timely diagnosis of P-aHUS from other pregnancy-related diseases. Although our patient is dialysis-independent, her risk of relapse remains high with subsequent pregnancies. Currently we are awaiting her genetic sequencing to complete her assessment for underlying mutations and are determining the safest approach to a future planned pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prianka Puri
- The Westmead Hospital Nephrology and Transplant Unit, Westmead, NSW, Australia. .,The Canberra Hospital Nephrology Unit Cabrera ACT, Canberra, Australia.
| | - Anida Hanxhiu
- The Westmead Hospital Nephrology and Transplant Unit, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Daniel V O'Hara
- The Westmead Hospital Nephrology and Transplant Unit, Westmead, NSW, Australia.,The George Institute for Global Health, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Danny Hsu
- The Liverpool Hospital haematology unit, Liverpool, NSW, Australia
| | - Mirna Vucak-Dzumhur
- The Westmead Hospital Nephrology and Transplant Unit, Westmead, NSW, Australia.,Western Sydney University and University Notre Dame, Penrith, Australia
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Kaartinen K, Martola L, Aaltonen S, Meri S. Diagnostic Dilemma of Thrombotic Microangiopathy in Pregnancy. Kidney Int Rep 2020; 6:529-533. [PMID: 33615079 PMCID: PMC7879120 DOI: 10.1016/j.ekir.2020.10.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kati Kaartinen
- Department of Nephrology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Leena Martola
- Department of Nephrology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Sari Aaltonen
- Department of Nephrology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Seppo Meri
- Department of Bacteriology and Immunology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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Abou Ghayda R, Li H, Lee KH, Lee HW, Hong SH, Kwak M, Lee M, Kwon M, Koyanagi A, Kronbichler A, Jacob L, Smith L, Shin JI. COVID-19 and Adverse Pregnancy Outcome: A Systematic Review of 104 Cases. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9113441. [PMID: 33114779 PMCID: PMC7692613 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9113441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2020] [Revised: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Until now, several reports about pregnant women with confirmed coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) have been published. However, there are no comprehensive systematic reviews collecting all case series studies on data regarding adverse pregnancy outcomes, especially association with treatment modalities. (2) Objective: We aimed to synthesize the most up-to-date and relevant available evidence on the outcomes of pregnant women with laboratory-confirmed infection with COVID-19. (3) Methods: PubMed, Scopus, MEDLINE, Google scholar, and Embase were explored for studies and papers regarding pregnant women with COVID-19, including obstetrical, perinatal, and neonatal outcomes and complications published from 1 January 2020 to 4 May 2020. Systematic review and search of the published literature was done using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). (4) Results: In total, 11 case series studies comprising 104 pregnant women with COVID-19 were included in our review. Fever (58.6%) and cough (30.7%) were the most common symptoms. Other symptoms included dyspnea (14.4%), chest discomfort (3.9%), sputum production (1.0%), sore throat (2.9%), and nasal obstruction (1.0%). Fifty-two patients (50.0%) eventually demonstrated abnormal chest CT, and of those with ground glass opacity (GGO), 23 (22.1%) were bilateral and 10 (9.6%) were unilateral. The most common treatment for COVID-19 was administration of antibiotics (25.9%) followed by antivirals (17.3%). Cesarean section was the mode of delivery for half of the women (50.0%), although no information was available for 28.8% of the cases. Regarding obstetrical and neonatal outcomes, fetal distress (13.5%), pre-labor rupture of membranes (9.6%), prematurity (8.7%), fetal death (4.8%), and abortion (2.9%) were reported. There are no positive results of neonatal infection by RT-PCR. (5) Conclusions: Although we have found that pregnancy with COVID-19 has significantly higher maternal mortality ratio compared to that of pregnancy without the disease, the evidence is too weak to state that COVID-19 results in poorer maternal outcome due to multiple factors. The number of COVID-19 pregnancy outcomes was not large enough to draw a conclusion and long-term outcomes are yet to be determined as the pandemic is still unfolding. Active and intensive follow-up is needed in order to provide robust data for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramy Abou Ghayda
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (R.A.G.); (S.H.H.)
- Division of Urology, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Han Li
- Department of Molecular Genetics and Microbiology, Center for Neurogenetics and the Genetics Institute, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA;
| | - Keum Hwa Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea; (K.H.L.); (H.W.L.); (M.K.); (M.L.); (M.K.)
| | - Hee Won Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea; (K.H.L.); (H.W.L.); (M.K.); (M.L.); (M.K.)
| | - Sung Hwi Hong
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA 02115, USA; (R.A.G.); (S.H.H.)
- Department of Pediatrics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea; (K.H.L.); (H.W.L.); (M.K.); (M.L.); (M.K.)
| | - Moonsu Kwak
- Department of Pediatrics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea; (K.H.L.); (H.W.L.); (M.K.); (M.L.); (M.K.)
| | - Minwoo Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea; (K.H.L.); (H.W.L.); (M.K.); (M.L.); (M.K.)
| | - Minjae Kwon
- Department of Pediatrics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea; (K.H.L.); (H.W.L.); (M.K.); (M.L.); (M.K.)
| | - Ai Koyanagi
- Research and Development Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, CIBERSAM, Dr. Antoni Pujadas, 42, Sant Boi de Llobregat, 08830 Barcelona, Spain; (A.K.); (L.J.)
- ICREA, Pg. Lluis Companys 23, 08010 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Andreas Kronbichler
- Department of Internal Medicine IV, Nephrology and Hypertension, Medical University Innsbruck, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria;
| | - Louis Jacob
- Research and Development Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, CIBERSAM, Dr. Antoni Pujadas, 42, Sant Boi de Llobregat, 08830 Barcelona, Spain; (A.K.); (L.J.)
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Versailles Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines, Montigny-le-Bretonneux, 78180 Versailles, France
| | - Lee Smith
- The Cambridge Centre for Sport and Exercise Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge CB1 1PT, UK;
| | - Jae Il Shin
- Department of Pediatrics, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Korea; (K.H.L.); (H.W.L.); (M.K.); (M.L.); (M.K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-2-2228-2050; Fax: +82-2-393-9118
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Alpha-2-macroglobulin from circulating exosome-like vesicles is increased in women with preterm pregnancies. Sci Rep 2020; 10:16961. [PMID: 33046786 PMCID: PMC7552414 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-73772-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Preterm labor (PTL) and Preterm Premature Rupture of Membranes (PPROM) impose substantial morbimortality on mothers and newborns. Exosomes act in intercellular communication carrying molecules involved in physiopathological processes. Little is known about exosomal proteins in prematurity. Our aim was to evaluate the protein expression of hemopexin, C1 inhibitor (C1INH) and alpha-2-macroglobulin (A2M) from circulating exosomes of women with PTL and PPROM. Plasma was obtained from PTL, PPROM, Term in labor and Term out of labor (T) patients, exosomes were isolated by ultracentrifugation, then lysed and the proteins quantified. Western Blot (WB) and Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA) were performed. Data were compared by Kruskal–Wallis, unpaired T-test and one-way ANOVA. WB and NTA confirmed exosome isolation (concentration: 4.3 × 1010 particles/ml ± 1.9 × 1010). There was no difference regarding hemopexin or C1INH expression between the groups. For A2M, the fold change was significantly higher on preterm groups when compared to term groups (1.07 ± 0.30 vs. 0.42 ± 0.17, p < 0.0001). Higher levels of A2M in circulating exosomes are linked to preterm pregnancies. sEV are strong candidates to intermediate maternal–fetal communication, carrying preterm labor-related immunomodulatory proteins.
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Britt JL, Noorai RE, Duckett SK. Differentially expressed genes in cotyledon of ewes fed mycotoxins. BMC Genomics 2020; 21:680. [PMID: 32998709 PMCID: PMC7528493 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-020-07074-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ergot alkaloids (E+) are mycotoxins produced by the endophytic fungus, Epichloë coenophiala, in tall fescue that are associated with ergotism in animals. Exposure to ergot alkaloids during gestation reduces fetal weight and placental mass in sheep. These reductions are related to vasoconstrictive effects of ergot alkaloids and potential alterations in nutrient transport to the fetus. Cotyledon samples were obtained from eight ewes that were fed E+ (n = 4; E+/E+) or E- (endophyte-free without ergot alkaloids; n = 4; E-/E-) seed during both mid (d 35 to 85) and late (d 85-133) gestation to assess differentially expressed genes associated with ergot alkaloid induced reductions in placental mass and fetal weight, and discover potential adaptive mechanisms to alter nutrient supply to fetus. RESULTS Ewes fed E+/E+ fescue seed during both mid and late gestation had 20% reduction in fetal body weight and 33% reduction in cotyledon mass compared to controls (E-/E-). Over 13,000 genes were identified with 110 upregulated and 33 downregulated. Four genes had a |log2FC| > 5 for ewes consuming E+/E+ treatment compared to controls: LECT2, SLC22A9, APOC3, and MBL2. REViGO revealed clusters of upregulated genes associated glucose, carbohydrates, lipid, protein, macromolecular and cellular metabolism, regulation of wound healing and response to starvation. For downregulated genes, no clusters were present, but all enriched GO terms were associated with anion and monocarboxylic acid transport. The complement and coagulation cascade and the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor signaling pathway were found to be enriched for ewes consuming E+/E+ treatment. CONCLUSIONS Consumption of ergot alkaloids during gestation altered the cotyledonary transcriptome specifically related to macronutrient metabolism, wound healing and starvation. These results show that ergot alkaloid exposure upregulates genes involved in nutrient metabolism to supply the fetus with additional substrates in attempts to rescue fetal growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- J L Britt
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
| | - R E Noorai
- Clemson University Genomics and Bioinformatics Facility, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA
| | - S K Duckett
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Clemson University, Clemson, SC, 29634, USA.
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Dong N, Gu H, Liu D, Wei X, Ma W, Ma L, Liu Y, Wang Y, Jia S, Huang J, Wang C, He X, Huang T, He Y, Zhang Q, An D, Bai Y, Yuan Z. Complement factors and alpha-fetoprotein as biomarkers for noninvasive prenatal diagnosis of neural tube defects. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2020; 1478:75-91. [PMID: 32761624 DOI: 10.1111/nyas.14443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2020] [Revised: 05/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Neural tube defects (NTDs) are serious congenital malformations. In this study, we aimed to identify more specific and sensitive maternal serum biomarkers for noninvasive NTD screenings. We collected serum from 37 pregnant women carrying fetuses with NTDs and 38 pregnant women carrying normal fetuses. Isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation were conducted for differential proteomic analysis, and an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to validate the results. We then used a support vector machine (SVM) classifier to establish a disease prediction model for NTD diagnosis. We identified 113 differentially expressed proteins; of these, 23 were either up- or downregulated 1.5-fold or more, including five complement proteins (C1QA, C1S, C1R, C9, and C3); C3 and C9 were downregulated significantly in NTD groups. The accuracy rate of the SVM model of the complement factors (including C1QA, C1S, and C3) was 62.5%, with 60% sensitivity and 67% specificity, while the accuracy rate of the SVM model of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP, an established biomarker for NTDs) was 62.5%, with 75% sensitivity and 50% specificity. Combination of the complement factor and AFP data resulted in the SVM model accuracy of 75%, and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed 75% sensitivity and 75% specificity. These data suggest that a disease prediction model based on combined complement factor and AFP data could serve as a more accurate method of noninvasive prenatal NTD diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naixuan Dong
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital Malformation, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China.,School of Sino-Dutch Biomedical & Information Engineering, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China
| | - Hui Gu
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital Malformation, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Dan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital Malformation, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xiaowei Wei
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital Malformation, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Wei Ma
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital Malformation, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Ling Ma
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital Malformation, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yusi Liu
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital Malformation, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yanfu Wang
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital Malformation, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Shanshan Jia
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital Malformation, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Jieting Huang
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital Malformation, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Chenfei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital Malformation, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Xuan He
- School of Sino-Dutch Biomedical & Information Engineering, Northeastern University, Shenyang, China
| | - Tianchu Huang
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital Malformation, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yiwen He
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital Malformation, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Qiang Zhang
- Second Respiratory Department, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Dong An
- Pediatric Department, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Yuzuo Bai
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
| | - Zhengwei Yuan
- Key Laboratory of Health Ministry for Congenital Malformation, Shengjing Hospital, China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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Banadakoppa M, Pennington K, Balakrishnan M, Yallampalli C. Complement inhibitor Crry expression in mouse placenta is essential for maintaining normal blood pressure and fetal growth. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0236968. [PMID: 32745140 PMCID: PMC7398533 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0236968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Many circumstantial evidences from human and animal studies suggest that complement cascade dysregulation may play an important role in pregnancy associated complications including preeclampsia. Deletion of rodent specific complement inhibitor gene, Complement Receptor 1-related Gene/Protein y (Crry) produces embryonic lethal phenotype due to complement activation. It is not clear if decreased expression of Crry during pregnancy produces hypertensive phenotype. We downregulated Crry in placenta by injecting inducible lentivialshRNA vectors into uterine horn of pregnant C57BL/6 mice at the time of blastocyst hatching. Placenta specific downregulation of Crry without significant loss of embryos was achieved upon induction of shRNA using an optimal doxycycline dose at mid gestation. Crry downregulation resulted in placental complement deposition. Late-gestation measurements showed that fetal weights were reduced and blood pressure increased in pregnant mice upon downregulation of Crry suggesting a critical role for Crry in fetal growth and blood pressure regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manu Banadakoppa
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail: (MB); (CY)
| | - Kathleen Pennington
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Meena Balakrishnan
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
| | - Chandra Yallampalli
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, United States of America
- * E-mail: (MB); (CY)
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Girardi G, Lingo JJ, Fleming SD, Regal JF. Essential Role of Complement in Pregnancy: From Implantation to Parturition and Beyond. Front Immunol 2020; 11:1681. [PMID: 32849586 PMCID: PMC7411130 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.01681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The complement cascade was identified over 100 years ago, yet investigation of its role in pregnancy remains an area of intense research. Complement inhibitors at the maternal-fetal interface prevent inappropriate complement activation to protect the fetus. However, this versatile proteolytic cascade also favorably influences numerous stages of pregnancy, including implantation, fetal development, and labor. Inappropriate complement activation in pregnancy can have adverse lifelong sequelae for both mother and child. This review summarizes the current understanding of complement activation during all stages of pregnancy. In addition, consequences of complement dysregulation during adverse pregnancy outcomes from miscarriage, preeclampsia, and pre-term birth are examined. Finally, future research directions into complement activation during pregnancy are considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillermina Girardi
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Member of QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Joshua J Lingo
- Division of Biology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, United States
| | - Sherry D Fleming
- Division of Biology, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS, United States
| | - Jean F Regal
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Minnesota Medical School, Duluth, MN, United States
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50
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Cissé YM, Chan JC, Nugent BM, Banducci C, Bale TL. Brain and placental transcriptional responses as a readout of maternal and paternal preconception stress are fetal sex specific. Placenta 2020; 100:164-170. [PMID: 32980048 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2020.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Despite a wealth of epidemiological evidence that cumulative parental lifetime stress experiences prior to conception are determinant of offspring developmental trajectories, there is a lack of insight on how these previous stress experiences are stored and communicated intergenerationally. Preconception experiences may impact offspring development through alterations in transcriptional regulation of the placenta, a major determinant of offspring growth and sex-specific developmental outcomes. We evaluated the lasting influence of maternal and paternal preconception stress (PCS) on the mid-gestation placenta and fetal brain, utilizing their transcriptomes as proximate readouts of intergenerational impact. METHODS To assess the combined vs. dominant influence of maternal and paternal preconception environment on sex-specific fetal development, we compared transcriptional outcomes using a breeding scheme of one stressed parent, both stressed parents, or no stressed parents as controls. RESULTS Interestingly, offspring sex affected the directionality of transcriptional changes in response to PCS, where male tissues showed a predominant downregulation, and female tissues showed an upregulation. There was also an intriguing effect of parental sex on placental programming where paternal PCS drove more effects in female placentas, while maternal PCS produced more transcriptional changes in male placentas. However, in the fetal brain, maternal PCS produced overall more changes in gene expression than paternal PCS, supporting the idea that the intrauterine environment may have a larger overall influence on the developing brain than it does on shaping the placenta. DISCUSSION Preconception experiences drive changes in the placental and the fetal brain transcriptome at a critical developmental timepoint. While not determinant, these altered transcriptional states may underlie sex-biased risk or resilience to stressful experiences later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasmine M Cissé
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, 21201, United States
| | - Jennifer C Chan
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, 21201, United States
| | - Bridget M Nugent
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, 21201, United States
| | - Caitlin Banducci
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, 21201, United States
| | - Tracy L Bale
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, MD, 21201, United States.
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