1
|
Carver AJ, Taylor RJ, Stevens HE. Mouse In Vivo Placental Targeted CRISPR Manipulation. J Vis Exp 2023:10.3791/64760. [PMID: 37125793 PMCID: PMC10664715 DOI: 10.3791/64760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The placenta is an essential organ that regulates and maintains mammalian development in utero. The placenta is responsible for the transfer of nutrients and waste between the mother and fetus and the production and delivery of growth factors and hormones. Placental genetic manipulations in mice are critical for understanding the placenta's specific role in prenatal development. Placental-specific Cre-expressing transgenic mice have varying effectiveness, and other methods for placental gene manipulation can be useful alternatives. This paper describes a technique to directly alter placental gene expression using CRISPR gene manipulation, which can be used to modify the expression of targeted genes. Using a relatively advanced surgical approach, pregnant dams undergo a laparotomy on embryonic day 12.5 (E12.5), and a CRISPR plasmid is delivered by a glass micropipette into the individual placentas. The plasmid is immediately electroporated after each injection. After dam recovery, the placentas and embryos can continue development until assessment at a later time point. The evaluation of the placenta and offspring after the use of this technique can determine the role of time-specific placental function in development. This type of manipulation will allow for a better understanding of how placental genetics and function impact fetal growth and development in multiple disease contexts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annemarie J Carver
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Genetics, University of Iowa; Department of Psychiatry, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa; Iowa Neuroscience Institute, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa
| | - Robert J Taylor
- Department of Psychiatry, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa; Iowa Neuroscience Institute, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa
| | - Hanna E Stevens
- Interdisciplinary Graduate Program in Genetics, University of Iowa; Department of Psychiatry, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa; Iowa Neuroscience Institute, Carver College of Medicine, University of Iowa; Hawk-IDDRC, University of Iowa;
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Yazawa T, Islam MS, Imamichi Y, Watanabe H, Yaegashi K, Ida T, Sato T, Kitano T, Matsuzaki S, Umezawa A, Muranishi Y. Comparison of Placental HSD17B1 Expression and Its Regulation in Various Mammalian Species. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13040622. [PMID: 36830409 PMCID: PMC9951672 DOI: 10.3390/ani13040622] [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: 12/17/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/12/2023] Open
Abstract
During mammalian gestation, large amounts of progesterone are produced by the placenta and circulate for the maintenance of pregnancy. In contrast, primary plasma estrogens are different between species. To account for this difference, we compared the expression of ovarian and placental steroidogenic genes in various mammalian species (mouse, guinea pig, porcine, ovine, bovine, and human). Consistent with the ability to synthesize progesterone, CYP11A1/Cyp11a1, and bi-functional HSD3B/Hsd3b genes were expressed in all species. CYP17A1/Cyp17a1 was expressed in the placenta of all species, excluding humans. CYP19A/Cyp19a1 was expressed in all placental estrogen-producing species, whereas estradiol-producing HSD17B1 was only strongly expressed in the human placenta. The promoter region of HSD17B1 in various species possesses a well-conserved SP1 site that was activated in human placental cell line JEG-3 cells. However, DNA methylation analyses in the ovine placenta showed that the SP1-site in the promoter region of HSD17B1 was completely methylated. These results indicate that epigenetic regulation of HSD17B1 expression is important for species-specific placental sex steroid production. Because human HSD17B1 showed strong activity for the conversion of androstenedione into testosterone, similar to HSD17B1/Hsd17b1 in other species, we also discuss the biological significance of human placental HSD17B1 based on the symptoms of aromatase-deficient patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takashi Yazawa
- Department of Biochemistry, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa 078-8510, Hokkaido, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-166-68-2342
| | - Mohammad Sayful Islam
- Department of Biochemistry, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa 078-8510, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Yoshitaka Imamichi
- Department of Marine Bioscience, Fukui Prefectural University, Obama 917-0003, Fukui, Japan
| | - Hiroyuki Watanabe
- Department of Life and Food Science, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Hokkaido, Japan
| | | | - Takanori Ida
- Center for Animal Disease Control, Frontiers Science Research Center, University of Miyazaki, Miyazaki 889-1692, Miyazaki, Japan
| | - Takahiro Sato
- Division of Molecular Genetics, Institute of Life Sciences, Kurume University, Kurume 830-0011, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Takeshi Kitano
- Department of Biological Sciences, Graduate School of Science and Technology, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto 860-8555, Kumamoto, Japan
| | | | - Akihiro Umezawa
- Department of Reproduction, National Center for Child Health and Development Research Institute, Setagaya 157-8535, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuki Muranishi
- Department of Life and Food Science, Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Obihiro 080-8555, Hokkaido, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Cao C, Fleming MD. Loss of the placental iron exporter ferroportin 1 causes embryonic demise in late-gestation mouse pregnancy. Development 2022; 149:285826. [PMID: 36398730 DOI: 10.1242/dev.201160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Fetal development relies on adequate iron supply by the placenta. The placental syncytiotrophoblasts (SCTB) express high levels of iron transporters, including ferroportin1 (Fpn1). Whether they are essential in the placenta has not been tested directly, mainly due to the lack of gene manipulation tools in SCTB. Here, we aimed to generate a SCTB-specific Cre mouse and use it to determine the role of placental Fpn1. Using CRISPR/Cas9 technology, we created a syncytin b (Synb) Cre line (SynbCre) targeting the fetal-facing SCTB layer in mouse placental labyrinth. SynbCre deleted Fpn1 in late gestation mouse placentas reliably with high efficiency. Embryos without placental Fpn1 were pale and runted, and died before birth. Fpn1 null placentas had reduced transferrin receptor expression, increased oxidative stress and detoxification responses, and accumulated ferritin in the SCTB instead of the fetal endothelium. In summary, we demonstrate that SynbCre is an effective and specific tool to investigate placental gene function in vivo. The loss of Fpn1 in late gestation mouse placenta is embryonically lethal, providing direct evidence for an essential role of Fpn1 in placental iron transport.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chang Cao
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Mark D Fleming
- Department of Pathology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Imakawa K, Kusama K, Kaneko-Ishino T, Nakagawa S, Kitao K, Miyazawa T, Ishino F. Endogenous Retroviruses and Placental Evolution, Development, and Diversity. Cells 2022; 11:cells11152458. [PMID: 35954303 PMCID: PMC9367772 DOI: 10.3390/cells11152458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The main roles of placentas include physical protection, nutrient and oxygen import, export of gasses and fetal waste products, and endocrinological regulation. In addition to physical protection of the fetus, the placentas must provide immune protection throughout gestation. These basic functions are well-conserved; however, placentas are undoubtedly recent evolving organs with structural and cellular diversities. These differences have been explained for the last two decades through co-opting genes and gene control elements derived from transposable elements, including endogenous retroviruses (ERVs). However, the differences in placental structures have not been explained or characterized. This manuscript addresses the sorting of ERVs and their integration into the mammalian genomes and provides new ways to explain why placental structures have diverged.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kazuhiko Imakawa
- Research Institute of Agriculture, Tokai University, Kumamoto 862-8652, Japan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +81-96-386-2652
| | - Kazuya Kusama
- Department of Endocrine Pharmacology, Tokyo University of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, Tokyo 192-0392, Japan
| | | | - So Nakagawa
- Department of Molecular Life Science, Tokai University School of Medicine, Nakagawa 259-1193, Japan
| | - Koichi Kitao
- Laboratory of Virus-Host Coevolution, Institute for Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Takayuki Miyazawa
- Laboratory of Virus-Host Coevolution, Institute for Life and Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Fumitoshi Ishino
- Institute of Research, Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Tokyo 113-8510, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Renaud SJ, Jeyarajah MJ. How trophoblasts fuse: an in-depth look into placental syncytiotrophoblast formation. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:433. [PMID: 35859055 PMCID: PMC11072895 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04475-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 05/07/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
In humans, cell fusion is restricted to only a few cell types under normal conditions. In the placenta, cell fusion is a critical process for generating syncytiotrophoblast: the giant multinucleated trophoblast lineage containing billions of nuclei within an interconnected cytoplasm that forms the primary interface separating maternal blood from fetal tissue. The unique morphology of syncytiotrophoblast ensures that nutrients and gases can be efficiently transferred between maternal and fetal tissue while simultaneously restricting entry of potentially damaging substances and maternal immune cells through intercellular junctions. To maintain integrity of the syncytiotrophoblast layer, underlying cytotrophoblast progenitor cells terminate their capability for self-renewal, upregulate expression of genes needed for differentiation, and then fuse into the overlying syncytium. These processes are disrupted in a variety of obstetric complications, underscoring the importance of proper syncytiotrophoblast formation for pregnancy health. Herein, an overview of key mechanisms underlying human trophoblast fusion and syncytiotrophoblast development is discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen J Renaud
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, N6A5C1, Canada.
| | - Mariyan J Jeyarajah
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology and Children's Health Research Institute, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, N6A5C1, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Pepe GJ, Albrecht ED. Novel Technologies for Target Delivery of Therapeutics to the Placenta during Pregnancy: A Review. Genes (Basel) 2021; 12:1255. [PMID: 34440429 PMCID: PMC8392549 DOI: 10.3390/genes12081255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Uterine spiral artery remodeling is essential for placental perfusion and fetal growth and, when impaired, results in placental ischemia and pregnancy complications, e.g., fetal growth restriction, preeclampsia, premature birth. Despite the high incidence of adverse pregnancies, current treatment options are limited. Accordingly, research has shifted to the development of gene therapy technologies that provide targeted delivery of "payloads" to the placenta while limiting maternal and fetal exposure. This review describes the current strategies, including placental targeting peptide-bound liposomes, nanoparticle or adenovirus constructs decorated with specific peptide sequences and placental gene promoters delivered via maternal IV injection, directly into the placenta or the uterine artery, as well as noninvasive site-selective targeting of regulating genes conjugated with microbubbles via contrast-enhanced ultrasound. The review also provides a perspective on the effectiveness of these technologies in various animal models and their practicability and potential use for targeted placental delivery of therapeutics and genes in adverse human pregnancies affected by placental dysfunction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gerald J. Pepe
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA 23507, USA;
| | - Eugene D. Albrecht
- Departments of Obstetrics/Gynecology/Reproductive Sciences and Physiology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Gupta MB, Jansson T. Novel roles of mechanistic target of rapamycin signaling in regulating fetal growth†. Biol Reprod 2020; 100:872-884. [PMID: 30476008 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Revised: 11/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling functions as a central regulator of cellular metabolism, growth, and survival in response to hormones, growth factors, nutrients, energy, and stress signals. Mechanistic TOR is therefore critical for the growth of most fetal organs, and global mTOR deletion is embryonic lethal. This review discusses emerging evidence suggesting that mTOR signaling also has a role as a critical hub in the overall homeostatic control of fetal growth, adjusting the fetal growth trajectory according to the ability of the maternal supply line to support fetal growth. In the fetus, liver mTOR governs the secretion and phosphorylation of insulin-like growth factor binding protein 1 (IGFBP-1) thereby controlling the bioavailability of insulin-like growth factors (IGF-I and IGF-II), which function as important growth hormones during fetal life. In the placenta, mTOR responds to a large number of growth-related signals, including amino acids, glucose, oxygen, folate, and growth factors, to regulate trophoblast mitochondrial respiration, nutrient transport, and protein synthesis, thereby influencing fetal growth. In the maternal compartment, mTOR is an integral part of a decidual nutrient sensor which links oxygen and nutrient availability to the phosphorylation of IGFBP-1 with preferential effects on the bioavailability of IGF-I in the maternal-fetal interface and in the maternal circulation. These new roles of mTOR signaling in the regulation fetal growth will help us better understand the molecular underpinnings of abnormal fetal growth, such as intrauterine growth restriction and fetal overgrowth, and may represent novel avenues for diagnostics and intervention in important pregnancy complications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Madhulika B Gupta
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Biochemistry, University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Thomas Jansson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Sciences, University of Colorado
- Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Wattez JS, Qiao L, Lee S, Natale DRC, Shao J. The platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha promoter-directed expression of cre recombinase in mouse placenta. Dev Dyn 2019; 248:363-374. [PMID: 30843624 PMCID: PMC6488356 DOI: 10.1002/dvdy.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2018] [Revised: 02/09/2019] [Accepted: 02/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Numerous pathologies of pregnancy originate from placental dysfunction. It is essential to understand the functions of key genes in the placenta in order to discern the etiology of placental pathologies. A paucity of animal models that allow conditional and inducible expression of a target gene in the placenta is a major limitation for studying placental development and function. Results To study the platelet‐derived growth factor receptor alpha (PDGFRα)‐directed and tamoxifen‐induced Cre recombinase expression in the placenta, PDGFRα‐CreER mice were crossed with mT/mG dual‐fluorescent reporter mice. The expression of endogenous membrane‐localized enhanced green fluorescent protein (mEGFP) and/or dTomato in the placenta was examined to identify PDGFRα promoter‐directed Cre expression. Pregnant PDGFRα‐CreER;mT/mG mice were treated with tamoxifen at various gestational ages. Upon tamoxifen treatment, reporter protein mEGFP was observed in the junctional zone (JZ) and chorionic plate (CP). Furthermore, a single dose of tamoxifen was sufficient to induce the recombination. Conclusions PDGFRα‐CreER expression is restricted to the JZ and CP of mouse placentas. PDGFRα‐CreER mice provide a useful tool to conditionally knock out or overexpress a target gene in these regions of the mouse placenta. Inducible PDGFRα‐directed Cre expression trophoblasts cells. A single tamoxifen treatment is sufficient to induce the recombination. Valuable tool to temporary knockout or over‐express a target gene in the placenta. Do not require sophisticated system and suitable for ordinary laboratory setting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Liping Qiao
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Samuel Lee
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | | | - Jianhua Shao
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, California
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Elston M, Urschitz J. Transposase-mediated gene modulation in the placenta. Placenta 2017; 59 Suppl 1:S32-S36. [PMID: 28778732 PMCID: PMC5682209 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2017.07.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2017] [Revised: 07/12/2017] [Accepted: 07/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The placenta is an organ vital to fetal development as well as the maintenance of a healthy pregnancy and plays a crucial role in developmental programming of the fetus. The mechanisms that link intrauterine milieu, fetal health and disease development later in life are poorly understood. Placenta-specific gene modulation, both by generating transgenic animals as well as by developing methods for in vivo genetic modifications is a growing area of interest as this approach provides the opportunity to investigate the role of particular genes or gene networks in regulating placental function and fetal growth. Furthermore, in vivo placental gene transfer may be adapted to treat humans in the future and could be used as an early intervention strategy for a wide range of pregnancy complications. This review is an overview of transposase-based methods available for both transgenic animal generation and in vivo placental gene modifications with an emphasis on piggyBac-based systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marlee Elston
- Department of Anatomy, Biochemistry and Physiology, John A. Burns School of Medicine, Honolulu, HI 96822, United States
| | - Johann Urschitz
- Department of Anatomy, Biochemistry and Physiology, John A. Burns School of Medicine, Honolulu, HI 96822, United States.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Yu B, Zhang T, Xia P, Gong X, Qiu X, Huang J. CCDC134 serves a crucial role in embryonic development. Int J Mol Med 2017; 41:381-390. [PMID: 29115376 PMCID: PMC5746300 DOI: 10.3892/ijmm.2017.3196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2017] [Accepted: 10/17/2017] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Coiled-coil domain containing 134 (CCDC134), a characterized secreted protein, may serve as an immune cytokine and illustrates its potent antitumor effects by augmenting CD8+ T-cell-mediated immunity. Additionally, CCDC134 may also act as a novel regulator of human alteration/deficiency in activation 2a, and be involved in the p300-CBP-associated factor complex and affect its acetyltransferase activity. To clarify the biological and pathological function of CCDC134, the present study generated a viable and fertile Ccdc134fl/fl mouse strain that allowed temporal and spatial control of gene ablation. Ccdc134−/− embryos generated by crossing of Ccdc134fl/fl mice with human β-actin-Cre or zona pellucida 3-Cre transgenic mice were embryonic lethal from embryonic day (E)12.5 to birth. Ccdc134 loss was associated with severe hemorrhages in the brain ventricular space and neural tube, pale and abnormal livers, cardiac hypertrophy and placental distress. Furthermore, it was demonstrated that a fraction of E13.5 fetal livers and brains exhibited reduced cell proliferation and vascular endothelial cell defects. CCDC134 also exhibited a dynamic and specific expression pattern during embryo development. The present results suggest that Ccdc134 may have specific biological functions in regulating mouse embryonic development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Biaoyi Yu
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, P.R. China
| | - Tianzhuo Zhang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, P.R. China
| | - Peng Xia
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoting Gong
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, P.R. China
| | - Xiaoyan Qiu
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, P.R. China
| | - Jing Huang
- Department of Immunology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University Health Science Center, Beijing 100191, P.R. China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Li G, Xu C, Lin X, Qu L, Xia D, Hongdu B, Xia Y, Wang X, Lou Y, He Q, Ma D, Chen Y. Deletion of Pdcd5 in mice led to the deficiency of placenta development and embryonic lethality. Cell Death Dis 2017; 8:e2811. [PMID: 28542142 PMCID: PMC5520688 DOI: 10.1038/cddis.2017.124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2016] [Revised: 02/23/2017] [Accepted: 02/23/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Programmed cell death 5 (PDCD5) is an apoptosis promoter molecule that displays multiple biological activities. However, the function of PDCD5 in vivo has not yet been investigated. Here, we generated a Pdcd5 knockout mouse model to study the physiological role of PDCD5 in vivo. Knockout of the Pdcd5 gene resulted in embryonic lethality at mid-gestation. Histopathological analysis revealed dysplasia in both the LZs and JZs in Pdcd5–/– placentas with defects in spongiotrophoblasts and trophoblast giant cells. Furthermore, Pdcd5–/– embryos had impaired transplacental passage capacity. We also found that Pdcd5–/– embryos exhibited cardiac abnormalities and defective liver development. The growth defect is linked to impaired placental development and may be caused by insufficient oxygen and nutrient transfer across the placenta. These findings were verified in vitro in Pdcd5 knockout mouse embryonic fibroblasts, which showed increased apoptosis and G0/G1 phase cell cycle arrest. Pdcd5 knockout decreased the Vegf and hepatocyte growth factor (Hgf) levels, downregulated the downstream Pik3ca–Akt–Mtor signal pathway and decreased cell survival. Collectively, our studies demonstrated that Pdcd5 knockout in mouse embryos results in placental defects and embryonic lethality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ge Li
- Department of Immunology, Peking University School of Basic Medical Science, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing 100191, China.,Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology, Ministry of Health, Peking University Health Sciences Center, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing 100191, China.,The Clinical Laboratory, Affiliated Hospital of Inner Mongolia Medical University, No. 1 Tongdao North Street, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia 010050, China.,Center for Human Disease Genomics, Peking University, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Chentong Xu
- Department of Immunology, Peking University School of Basic Medical Science, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing 100191, China.,Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology, Ministry of Health, Peking University Health Sciences Center, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing 100191, China.,Center for Human Disease Genomics, Peking University, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Xin Lin
- Department of Immunology, Peking University School of Basic Medical Science, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing 100191, China.,Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology, Ministry of Health, Peking University Health Sciences Center, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing 100191, China.,Center for Human Disease Genomics, Peking University, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Liujing Qu
- Department of Immunology, Peking University School of Basic Medical Science, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing 100191, China.,Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology, Ministry of Health, Peking University Health Sciences Center, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing 100191, China.,Center for Human Disease Genomics, Peking University, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Dan Xia
- Department of Immunology, Peking University School of Basic Medical Science, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing 100191, China.,Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology, Ministry of Health, Peking University Health Sciences Center, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing 100191, China.,Center for Human Disease Genomics, Peking University, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Beiqi Hongdu
- Department of Immunology, Peking University School of Basic Medical Science, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing 100191, China.,Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology, Ministry of Health, Peking University Health Sciences Center, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing 100191, China.,Center for Human Disease Genomics, Peking University, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yan Xia
- Department of Immunology, Peking University School of Basic Medical Science, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing 100191, China.,Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology, Ministry of Health, Peking University Health Sciences Center, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing 100191, China.,Center for Human Disease Genomics, Peking University, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Xiaokun Wang
- Center for Human Disease Genomics, Peking University, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yaxin Lou
- Medical and Healthy Analytical Center, Peking University, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Qihua He
- Medical and Healthy Analytical Center, Peking University, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Dalong Ma
- Department of Immunology, Peking University School of Basic Medical Science, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing 100191, China.,Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology, Ministry of Health, Peking University Health Sciences Center, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing 100191, China.,Center for Human Disease Genomics, Peking University, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yingyu Chen
- Department of Immunology, Peking University School of Basic Medical Science, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing 100191, China.,Key Laboratory of Medical Immunology, Ministry of Health, Peking University Health Sciences Center, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing 100191, China.,Center for Human Disease Genomics, Peking University, No. 38 Xueyuan Road, Beijing 100191, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Ilekis JV, Tsilou E, Fisher S, Abrahams VM, Soares MJ, Cross JC, Zamudio S, Illsley NP, Myatt L, Colvis C, Costantine MM, Haas DM, Sadovsky Y, Weiner C, Rytting E, Bidwell G. Placental origins of adverse pregnancy outcomes: potential molecular targets: an Executive Workshop Summary of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2016; 215:S1-S46. [PMID: 26972897 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2016.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 175] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2015] [Revised: 02/11/2016] [Accepted: 03/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Although much progress is being made in understanding the molecular pathways in the placenta that are involved in the pathophysiology of pregnancy-related disorders, a significant gap exists in the utilization of this information for the development of new drug therapies to improve pregnancy outcome. On March 5-6, 2015, the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development of the National Institutes of Health sponsored a 2-day workshop titled Placental Origins of Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes: Potential Molecular Targets to begin to address this gap. Particular emphasis was given to the identification of important molecular pathways that could serve as drug targets and the advantages and disadvantages of targeting these particular pathways. This article is a summary of the proceedings of that workshop. A broad number of topics were covered that ranged from basic placental biology to clinical trials. This included research in the basic biology of placentation, such as trophoblast migration and spiral artery remodeling, and trophoblast sensing and response to infectious and noninfectious agents. Research findings in these areas will be critical for the formulation of the development of future treatments and the development of therapies for the prevention of a number of pregnancy disorders of placental origin that include preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, and uterine inflammation. Research was also presented that summarized ongoing clinical efforts in the United States and in Europe that has tested novel interventions for preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction, including agents such as oral arginine supplementation, sildenafil, pravastatin, gene therapy with virally delivered vascular endothelial growth factor, and oxygen supplementation therapy. Strategies were also proposed to improve fetal growth by the enhancement of nutrient transport to the fetus by modulation of their placental transporters and the targeting of placental mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress to improve placental health. The roles of microRNAs and placental-derived exosomes, as well as messenger RNAs, were also discussed in the context of their use for diagnostics and as drug targets. The workshop discussed the aspect of safety and pharmacokinetic profiles of potential existing and new therapeutics that will need to be determined, especially in the context of the unique pharmacokinetic properties of pregnancy and the hurdles and pitfalls of the translation of research findings into practice. The workshop also discussed novel methods of drug delivery and targeting during pregnancy with the use of macromolecular carriers, such as nanoparticles and biopolymers, to minimize placental drug transfer and hence fetal drug exposure. In closing, a major theme that developed from the workshop was that the scientific community must change their thinking of the pregnant woman and her fetus as a vulnerable patient population for which drug development should be avoided, but rather be thought of as a deprived population in need of more effective therapeutic interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John V Ilekis
- Pregnancy and Perinatology Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD.
| | - Ekaterini Tsilou
- Obstetric and Pediatric Pharmacology and Therapeutics Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD), National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD.
| | - Susan Fisher
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA
| | - Vikki M Abrahams
- Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine; New Haven, CT
| | - Michael J Soares
- Institute of Reproductive Health and Regenerative Medicine and Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS
| | - James C Cross
- Comparative Biology and Experimental Medicine, University of Calgary Health Sciences Centre, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Stacy Zamudio
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ
| | - Nicholas P Illsley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ
| | - Leslie Myatt
- Center for Pregnancy and Newborn Research, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX
| | - Christine Colvis
- Therapeutics Discovery Program, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD
| | - Maged M Costantine
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX
| | - David M Haas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN
| | | | - Carl Weiner
- University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS
| | - Erik Rytting
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX
| | - Gene Bidwell
- Department of Neurology, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Szalai G, Xu Y, Romero R, Chaiworapongsa T, Xu Z, Chiang PJ, Ahn H, Sundell B, Plazyo O, Jiang Y, Olive M, Wang B, Jacques SM, Qureshi F, Tarca AL, Erez O, Dong Z, Papp Z, Hassan SS, Hernandez-Andrade E, Than NG. In vivo experiments reveal the good, the bad and the ugly faces of sFlt-1 in pregnancy. PLoS One 2014; 9:e110867. [PMID: 25393290 PMCID: PMC4230935 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0110867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2014] [Accepted: 09/23/2014] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective Soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase (sFlt)-1-e15a, a primate-specific sFlt-1-isoform most abundant in the human placenta in preeclampsia, can induce preeclampsia in mice. This study compared the effects of full-length human (h)sFlt-1-e15a with those of truncated mouse (m)sFlt-1(1-3) used in previous preeclampsia studies on pregnancy outcome and clinical symptoms in preeclampsia. Methods Mice were injected with adenoviruses or fiber-mutant adenoviruses overexpressing hsFlt-1-e15a, msFlt-1(1-3) or control GFP under the CMV or CYP19A1 promoters on gestational day 8 (GD8) and GD11. Placentas and pups were delivered by cesarean section, and dams were monitored postpartum. Blood pressure was telemetrically recorded. Urine samples were collected with cystocentesis and examined for albumin/creatinine ratios. Tissue specimens were evaluated for transgene as well as endogenous mFlt-1 and msFlt-1-i13 expression. H&E-, Jones- and PAS-stained kidney sections were histopathologically examined. Placental GFP expression and aortic ring assays were investigated with confocal microscopy. Results Mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) was elevated before delivery in hsFlt-1-e15a-treated mice compared to controls (GD18: ΔMAP = 7.8 mmHg, p = 0.009), while ΔMAP was 12.8 mmHg (GD18, p = 0.005) in msFlt-1(1-3)-treated mice. Urine albumin/creatinine ratio was higher in hsFlt-1-e15a-treated mice than in controls (GD18, p = 0.04; PPD8, p = 0.03), and msFlt-1(1-3)-treated mice had marked proteinuria postpartum (PPD8, p = 4×10−5). Focal glomerular changes were detected in hsFlt-1-e15a and msFlt-1(1-3)-treated mice. Aortic ring microvessel outgrowth was decreased in hsFlt-1-e15a (p = 0.007) and msFlt-1(1-3)-treated (p = 0.02) mice. Full-length msFlt-1-i13 expression was unique for the placenta. In hsFlt-1-e15a-treated mice, the number of pups (p = 0.046), total weight of living pups (p = 0.04) and maternal weights (p = 0.04) were higher than in controls. These differences were not observed in truncated msFlt-1(1-3)-treated mice. Conclusions Truncated msFlt-1(1-3) simulated the preeclampsia-promoting effects of full-length hsFlt-1. MsFlt-1(1-3) had strong effect on maternal endothelium but not on placentas and embryos. In contrast, hsFlt-1-e15a induced preeclampsia-like symptoms; however, it also increased litter size. In accord with the predominant placental expression of hsFlt-1-e15a and msFlt-1-i13, full-length sFlt-1 may have a role in the regulation of embryonic development. These observations point to the difference in the biological effects of full-length and truncated sFlt-1 and the changes in the effect of full-length sFlt-1 during pregnancy, and may have important implications in the management of preeclampsia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gabor Szalai
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Yi Xu
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Roberto Romero
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, United States of America
- * E-mail: (RR); (NGT)
| | - Tinnakorn Chaiworapongsa
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Zhonghui Xu
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Po Jen Chiang
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Hyunyoung Ahn
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Birgitta Sundell
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Olesya Plazyo
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Yang Jiang
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Mary Olive
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, United States of America
- Department of Pharmacology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Bing Wang
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Suzanne M. Jacques
- Department of Pathology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Faisal Qureshi
- Department of Pathology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Adi L. Tarca
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, United States of America
- Department of Computer Science, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, United States of America
- Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Offer Erez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Soroka University Medical Center, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Zhong Dong
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Zoltan Papp
- Maternity Private Department, Kutvolgyi Clinical Block, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Sonia S. Hassan
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Edgar Hernandez-Andrade
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, United States of America
| | - Nandor Gabor Than
- Perinatology Research Branch, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, United States of America
- Maternity Private Department, Kutvolgyi Clinical Block, Semmelweis University, Budapest, Hungary
- Institute of Enzymology, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
- * E-mail: (RR); (NGT)
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Gao H, Liebenthal DA, Yallampalli U, Yallampalli C. Adrenomedullin promotes rat trophoblast stem cell differentiation. Biol Reprod 2014; 91:65. [PMID: 25061099 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.114.120378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Accumulating data suggest that adrenomedullin (ADM) regulates the trophoblast cell growth, migration, and invasion. However, the effect of ADM on trophoblast differentiation is poorly understood. In this study, we hypothesized that ADM promotes the differentiation of trophoblast stem cells (TSCs) into trophoblast giant cells (TGCs). Using rat TSCs, Rcho-1 cells, we investigated the effect of ADM on TSC differentiation into TGCs in differentiation or stem cell media, respectively, and explored the effect of ADM on the mechanistic target of rapamycin (MTOR) signaling in trophoblast cell differentiation. The results include: 1) in the presence of differentiation medium, 10⁻⁷ M ADM, but not lower doses, elevated (P < 0.05) Prl3b1/Esrrb (i.e., the ratio of mRNA levels) by 1.7-fold compared to that in control; 2) the supplementation of ADM antagonist, regardless of the concentration of ADM, reduced (P < 0.05) Prl3b1/Esrrb by 2-fold, compared to control group, while the supplementation of CGRP antagonist, regardless of the concentration of ADM, did not change Prl3b1/Esrrb; 3) in the presence of stem cell medium, ADM did not alter the expression of TSC and TGC marker genes, however, the ratio of Prl3b1/Esrrb was reduced (P < 0.05) by ADM antagonist compared to that in control; and 4) ADM increased (P < 0.05) phosphorylated MTOR proteins and the ratio of phosphorylated to total MTOR proteins by 2.0- and 1.7-fold, respectively. The results indicate that ADM promotes but does not induce the differentiation of TSCs to TGCs in a dose-dependent manner and MTOR signaling may play a role in this process.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haijun Gao
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Daniel A Liebenthal
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Uma Yallampalli
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Chandra Yallampalli
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Gao H, Yallampalli U, Yallampalli C. Gestational protein restriction affects trophoblast differentiation. Front Biosci (Elite Ed) 2013; 5:591-601. [PMID: 23277015 PMCID: PMC4046710 DOI: 10.2741/e641] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/13/2023]
Abstract
Whether and how gestational protein restriction (PR) affects placental development and function remain unknown. To test the hypothesis that PR can affect trophoblast differentiation in mid-and late pregnancy, rats were fed a 20% or an isocaloric 6% protein diet from Day 1 to 14 or 18 of pregnancy and effects of PR on trophoblast differentiation were determined by changes in expressions of marker gene(s) for trophoblast lineages. At Day 18 of pregnancy, PR increased expressions of Esrrb, Id1 andId2 (trophoblast stem cell markers), decreased expressions of Ascl2 (spongiotrophblast cell marker) and Prl2c1 (trophoblast giant cell marker), but did not alter expressions of Gjb3 and Pcdh12(glycogen cell markers) in the junctional zone (JZ). In the labyrinth zone (LZ), PR did not change expressions of Prl2b1 (trophoblast giant cell marker), Gcm1 and Syna (syncytiotrophoblast cell markers), but decrease expression of Ctsq (sinusoidal trophoblast giant cell marker). These results indicate that PR impairs the differentiation of trophoblast stem cell into spongiotrophoblast and trophoblast giant cells in JZ, and formation of sinusoidal trophoblast giant cells in LZ.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haijun Gao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX 77555-1062, USA
| | - Uma Yallampalli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX 77555-1062, USA
| | - Chandra Yallampalli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX 77555-1062, USA
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Goeden N, Bonnin A. Ex vivo perfusion of mid-to-late-gestation mouse placenta for maternal-fetal interaction studies during pregnancy. Nat Protoc 2013; 8:66-74. [PMID: 23237830 PMCID: PMC5360402 DOI: 10.1038/nprot.2012.144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Ex vivo perfusion systems offer a reliable, reproducible method for studying acute physiological responses of an organ to various environmental manipulations. Unlike in vitro culture systems, the cellular organization, compartmentalization and three-dimensional structure of ex vivo-perfused organs are maintained. These particular parameters are crucial for the normal physiological function of the placenta, which supports fetal growth through transplacental exchange, nutritional synthesis and metabolism, growth factor promotion and regulation of both maternally and fetally derived molecules. The perfusion system described here, which can be completed in 4-5 h, allows for integrated, physiological studies of de novo synthesis and metabolism and transport of materials across the live mouse placenta, not only throughout a normal gestation period but also following a variety of individual or combined genetic and environmental perturbations compromising placental function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nick Goeden
- Zilkha Neurogenetic Institute, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Fan X, Petitt M, Gamboa M, Huang M, Dhal S, Druzin ML, Wu JC, Chen-Tsai Y, Nayak NR. Transient, inducible, placenta-specific gene expression in mice. Endocrinology 2012; 153:5637-44. [PMID: 23011919 PMCID: PMC3473213 DOI: 10.1210/en.2012-1556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Molecular understanding of placental functions and pregnancy disorders is limited by the absence of methods for placenta-specific gene manipulation. Although persistent placenta-specific gene expression has been achieved by lentivirus-based gene delivery methods, developmentally and physiologically important placental genes have highly stage-specific functions, requiring controllable, transient expression systems for functional analysis. Here, we describe an inducible, placenta-specific gene expression system that enables high-level, transient transgene expression and monitoring of gene expression by live bioluminescence imaging in mouse placenta at different stages of pregnancy. We used the third generation tetracycline-responsive tranactivator protein Tet-On 3G, with 10- to 100-fold increased sensitivity to doxycycline (Dox) compared with previous versions, enabling unusually sensitive on-off control of gene expression in vivo. Transgenic mice expressing Tet-On 3G were created using a new integrase-based, site-specific approach, yielding high-level transgene expression driven by a ubiquitous promoter. Blastocysts from these mice were transduced with the Tet-On 3G-response element promoter-driving firefly luciferase using lentivirus-mediated placenta-specific gene delivery and transferred into wild-type pseudopregnant recipients for placenta-specific, Dox-inducible gene expression. Systemic Dox administration at various time points during pregnancy led to transient, placenta-specific firefly luciferase expression as early as d 5 of pregnancy in a Dox dose-dependent manner. This system enables, for the first time, reliable pregnancy stage-specific induction of gene expression in the placenta and live monitoring of gene expression during pregnancy. It will be widely applicable to studies of both placental development and pregnancy, and the site-specific Tet-On G3 mouse will be valuable for studies in a broad range of tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiujun Fan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford Cancer Center, Stanford University, California 94305-5317, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|