1
|
Chiang KC, Rizk JG, Nelson DJ, Krishnamurti L, Subbian S, Imig JD, Khan I, Reddy ST, Gupta A. Ramatroban for chemoprophylaxis and treatment of COVID-19: David takes on Goliath. Expert Opin Ther Targets 2022; 26:13-28. [PMID: 35068281 PMCID: PMC10119876 DOI: 10.1080/14728222.2022.2031975] [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: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In COVID-19 pneumonia, there is a massive increase in fatty acid levels and lipid mediators with a predominance of cyclooxygenase metabolites, notably TxB2 ≫ PGE2 > PGD2 in the lungs, and 11-dehydro-TxB2, a TxA2 metabolite, in the systemic circulation. While TxA2 stimulates thromboxane prostanoid (TP) receptors, 11-dehydro-TxB2 is a full agonist of DP2 (formerly known as the CRTh2) receptors for PGD2. Anecdotal experience of using ramatroban, a dual receptor antagonist of the TxA2/TP and PGD2/DP2 receptors, demonstrated rapid symptomatic relief from acute respiratory distress and hypoxemia while avoiding hospitalization. AREAS COVERED Evidence supporting the role of TxA2/TP receptors and PGD2/DP2 receptors in causing rapidly progressive lung injury associated with hypoxemia, a maladaptive immune response and thromboinflammation is discussed. An innovative perspective on the dual antagonism of TxA2/TP and PGD2/DP2 receptor signaling as a therapeutic approach in COVID-19 is presented. This paper examines ramatroban an anti-platelet, immunomodulator, and antifibrotic agent for acute and long-haul COVID-19. EXPERT OPINION Ramatroban, a dual blocker of TP and DP2 receptors, has demonstrated efficacy in animal models of respiratory dysfunction, atherosclerosis, thrombosis, and sepsis, as well as preliminary evidence for rapid relief from dyspnea and hypoxemia in COVID-19 pneumonia. Ramatroban merits investigation as a promising antithrombotic and immunomodulatory agent for chemoprophylaxis and treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - John G. Rizk
- Department of Pharmaceutical Health Services Research, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Baltimore, MD, USA
- Arizona State University, Edson College, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | | | - Lakshmanan Krishnamurti
- Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Selvakumar Subbian
- Rutgers University, New Jersey Medical School and Public Health Research Institute, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - John D. Imig
- Drug Discovery Center and Cardiovascular Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI, USA
| | - Imran Khan
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, the University of California at Davis, Sacramento, CA, USA
| | - Srinivasa T. Reddy
- Departments of Medicine, and Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- Molecular Toxicology Interdepartmental Degree Program, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Ajay Gupta
- Charak Foundation, Orange, CA
- Division of Nephrology, Hypertension and Kidney Transplantation, University of California Irvine, Orange, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Chiang KC, Imig JD, Kalantar-Zadeh K, Gupta A. Kidney in the net of acute and long-haul coronavirus disease 2019: a potential role for lipid mediators in causing renal injury and fibrosis. Curr Opin Nephrol Hypertens 2022; 31:36-46. [PMID: 34846312 DOI: 10.1097/mnh.0000000000000750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Severe COVID-19 disease is often complicated by acute kidney injury (AKI), which may transition to chronic kidney disease (CKD). Better understanding of underlying mechanisms is important in advancing therapeutic approaches. RECENT FINDINGS SARS-CoV-2-induced endothelial injury initiates platelet activation, platelet-neutrophil partnership and release of neutrophil extracellular traps. The resulting thromboinflammation causes ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury to end organs. Severe COVID-19 induces a lipid-mediator storm with massive increases in thromboxane A2 (TxA2) and PGD2, which promote thromboinflammation and apoptosis of renal tubular cells, respectively, and thereby enhance renal fibrosis. COVID-19-associated AKI improves rapidly in the majority. However, 15-30% have protracted renal injury, raising the specter of transition from AKI to CKD. SUMMARY In COVID-19, the lipid-mediator storm promotes thromboinflammation, ischemia-reperfusion injury and cytotoxicity. The thromboxane A2 and PGD2 signaling presents a therapeutic target with potential to mitigate AKI and transition to CKD. Ramatroban, the only dual antagonist of the thromboxane A2/TPr and PGD2/DPr2 signaling could potentially mitigate renal injury in acute and long-haul COVID. Urgent studies targeting the lipid-mediator storm are needed to potentially reduce the heavy burden of kidney disease emerging in the wake of the current pandemic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - John D Imig
- Drug Discovery Center and Cardiovascular Center, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Kamyar Kalantar-Zadeh
- Division of Nephrology, Hypertension and Kidney Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of California Irvine (UCI) School of Medicine, Orange, California, USA
| | - Ajay Gupta
- KARE Biosciences, Orange, California
- Division of Nephrology, Hypertension and Kidney Transplantation, Department of Medicine, University of California Irvine (UCI) School of Medicine, Orange, California, USA
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Coler BS, Shynlova O, Boros-Rausch A, Lye S, McCartney S, Leimert KB, Xu W, Chemtob S, Olson D, Li M, Huebner E, Curtin A, Kachikis A, Savitsky L, Paul JW, Smith R, Adams Waldorf KM. Landscape of Preterm Birth Therapeutics and a Path Forward. J Clin Med 2021; 10:2912. [PMID: 34209869 PMCID: PMC8268657 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10132912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2021] [Revised: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Preterm birth (PTB) remains the leading cause of infant morbidity and mortality. Despite 50 years of research, therapeutic options are limited and many lack clear efficacy. Tocolytic agents are drugs that briefly delay PTB, typically to allow antenatal corticosteroid administration for accelerating fetal lung maturity or to transfer patients to high-level care facilities. Globally, there is an unmet need for better tocolytic agents, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Although most tocolytics, such as betamimetics and indomethacin, suppress downstream mediators of the parturition pathway, newer therapeutics are being designed to selectively target inflammatory checkpoints with the goal of providing broader and more effective tocolysis. However, the relatively small market for new PTB therapeutics and formidable regulatory hurdles have led to minimal pharmaceutical interest and a stagnant drug pipeline. In this review, we present the current landscape of PTB therapeutics, assessing the history of drug development, mechanisms of action, adverse effects, and the updated literature on drug efficacy. We also review the regulatory hurdles and other obstacles impairing novel tocolytic development. Ultimately, we present possible steps to expedite drug development and meet the growing need for effective preterm birth therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brahm Seymour Coler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; (B.S.C.); (S.M.); (M.L.); (E.H.); (A.C.); (A.K.); (L.S.)
- Elson S. Floyd College of Medicine, Washington State University, Spokane, WA 99202, USA
| | - Oksana Shynlova
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; (O.S.); (A.B.-R.); (S.L.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1E2, Canada
| | - Adam Boros-Rausch
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; (O.S.); (A.B.-R.); (S.L.)
| | - Stephen Lye
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A8, Canada; (O.S.); (A.B.-R.); (S.L.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5G 1E2, Canada
| | - Stephen McCartney
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; (B.S.C.); (S.M.); (M.L.); (E.H.); (A.C.); (A.K.); (L.S.)
| | - Kelycia B. Leimert
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R7, Canada; (K.B.L.); (W.X.); (D.O.)
| | - Wendy Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R7, Canada; (K.B.L.); (W.X.); (D.O.)
| | - Sylvain Chemtob
- Departments of Pediatrics, Université de Montréal, Montréal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada;
| | - David Olson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R7, Canada; (K.B.L.); (W.X.); (D.O.)
- Departments of Pediatrics and Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2S2, Canada
| | - Miranda Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; (B.S.C.); (S.M.); (M.L.); (E.H.); (A.C.); (A.K.); (L.S.)
- Department of Biological Sciencies, Columbia University, New York, NY 10027, USA
| | - Emily Huebner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; (B.S.C.); (S.M.); (M.L.); (E.H.); (A.C.); (A.K.); (L.S.)
| | - Anna Curtin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; (B.S.C.); (S.M.); (M.L.); (E.H.); (A.C.); (A.K.); (L.S.)
| | - Alisa Kachikis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; (B.S.C.); (S.M.); (M.L.); (E.H.); (A.C.); (A.K.); (L.S.)
| | - Leah Savitsky
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; (B.S.C.); (S.M.); (M.L.); (E.H.); (A.C.); (A.K.); (L.S.)
| | - Jonathan W. Paul
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; (J.W.P.); (R.S.)
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
| | - Roger Smith
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, School of Medicine and Public Health, College of Health, Medicine and Wellbeing, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; (J.W.P.); (R.S.)
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, 1 Kookaburra Circuit, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
- John Hunter Hospital, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
| | - Kristina M. Adams Waldorf
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA; (B.S.C.); (S.M.); (M.L.); (E.H.); (A.C.); (A.K.); (L.S.)
- Department of Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Yulia A, Singh N, Varley AJ, Lei K, Markovic D, Sooranna SR, Johnson MR. PKA and AKIP1 interact to mediate cAMP-driven COX-2 expression: A potentially pivotal interaction in preterm and term labour. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0252720. [PMID: 34166397 PMCID: PMC8224895 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0252720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Previously, we showed that cAMP increased COX-2 expression in myometrial cells via MAPK. Here, we have extended these observations, using primary myometrial cell cultures to show that the cAMP agonist, forskolin, enhances IL-1β-driven COX-2 expression. We then explored the role of A-kinase interacting protein (AKIP1), which modulates the effect of PKA on p65 activation. AKIP1 knockdown reversed the effect of forskolin, such that its addition inhibited IL-1β-induced COX-2 mRNA expression and reduced the IL-1β-induced increase in nuclear levels of p65 and c-jun. Forskolin alone and with IL-1β increased IκBα mRNA expression suggesting that in the context of inflammation and in the presence of AKIP1, cAMP enhances p65 activation. AKIP1 knockdown reversed these changes. Interestingly, AKIP1 knockdown had minimal effect on the ability of forskolin to repress either basal OTR expression or IL-1β-stimulated OTR mRNA expression. AKIP1 was up-regulated by IL-1β, but not stretch and was repressed by cAMP. The mRNA expression of AKIP1 increased in early labour in tandem with an increase in COX-2 mRNA and protein. AKIP1 protein levels were also increased with inflammation and stretch-induced preterm labour. Our results identify a second important cAMP effector-switch occurring at term in human myometrium and suggest that a hitherto unrecognized interaction may exist between AKIP1, NFκB and AP-1. These data add to the proposition that cAMP acts as a key regulator of human myometrial contractility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Angela Yulia
- Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Natasha Singh
- Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, London, United Kingdom
| | - Alice J. Varley
- Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, London, United Kingdom
| | - Kaiyu Lei
- Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Suren R. Sooranna
- Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mark R. Johnson
- Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Lei K, Georgiou EX, Chen L, Yulia A, Sooranna SR, Brosens JJ, Bennett PR, Johnson MR. Progesterone and the Repression of Myometrial Inflammation: The Roles of MKP-1 and the AP-1 System. Mol Endocrinol 2015; 29:1454-67. [PMID: 26280733 DOI: 10.1210/me.2015-1122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Progesterone (P4) maintains uterine quiescence during pregnancy and its functional withdrawal is associated with increased prostaglandin synthesis and the onset of labor. In primary human myometrial cells, the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) rather than the P4 receptor mediates P4 antagonism of IL-1β-induced cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression, the rate-limiting enzyme in prostaglandin synthesis. We now report that P4 also acts via GR to induce MAPK phosphatase (MKP)-1 and knockdown of MKP-1 impairs the ability of P4 to repress IL-1β-dependent COX-2 induction. Microarray analysis revealed that P4 repressed preferentially activator protein-1-responsive genes in response to IL-1β. Consistent with these observations, we found that the ability of P4 to reduce c-Jun activation was lost upon GR as well as MKP-1 knockdown. Interestingly, c-Jun levels in human myometrial cells declined upon GR and MKP-1 knockdown, which suggests the presence of an activator protein-1 feedback loop. This is supported by our observation that c-Jun levels declined after an initial rise in primary myometrial cells treated with phorbol 12-myrisatate 13-acetate, a potent activator of c-Jun N-terminal kinase. Finally, we show that MKP-1 is an intermediate in P4-mediated repression of some but not all IL-1β-responsive genes. For example, P4 repression of IL11 and IRAK3 was maintained upon MKP-1 knockdown. Taken together, the data show that P4 acts via GR to drive MKP-1 expression, which in turn inhibits IL-1β-dependent c-Jun activation and COX-2 expression.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K Lei
- Imperial College Parturition Research Group (K.L., E.X.G., L.C., A.Y., S.R.S., M.R.J.), Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London SW10 9NH, United Kingdom; Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology (KL.,. E.X.G., A.Y., S.R.S., P.R.B., M.R.J.), Hammersmith Hospital Campus, London W12 0NN, United Kingdom; Obstetrics Department (L.C.), First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, People's Republic of China; and Reproductive Health (J.J.B.), University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - E X Georgiou
- Imperial College Parturition Research Group (K.L., E.X.G., L.C., A.Y., S.R.S., M.R.J.), Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London SW10 9NH, United Kingdom; Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology (KL.,. E.X.G., A.Y., S.R.S., P.R.B., M.R.J.), Hammersmith Hospital Campus, London W12 0NN, United Kingdom; Obstetrics Department (L.C.), First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, People's Republic of China; and Reproductive Health (J.J.B.), University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - L Chen
- Imperial College Parturition Research Group (K.L., E.X.G., L.C., A.Y., S.R.S., M.R.J.), Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London SW10 9NH, United Kingdom; Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology (KL.,. E.X.G., A.Y., S.R.S., P.R.B., M.R.J.), Hammersmith Hospital Campus, London W12 0NN, United Kingdom; Obstetrics Department (L.C.), First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, People's Republic of China; and Reproductive Health (J.J.B.), University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - A Yulia
- Imperial College Parturition Research Group (K.L., E.X.G., L.C., A.Y., S.R.S., M.R.J.), Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London SW10 9NH, United Kingdom; Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology (KL.,. E.X.G., A.Y., S.R.S., P.R.B., M.R.J.), Hammersmith Hospital Campus, London W12 0NN, United Kingdom; Obstetrics Department (L.C.), First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, People's Republic of China; and Reproductive Health (J.J.B.), University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - S R Sooranna
- Imperial College Parturition Research Group (K.L., E.X.G., L.C., A.Y., S.R.S., M.R.J.), Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London SW10 9NH, United Kingdom; Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology (KL.,. E.X.G., A.Y., S.R.S., P.R.B., M.R.J.), Hammersmith Hospital Campus, London W12 0NN, United Kingdom; Obstetrics Department (L.C.), First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, People's Republic of China; and Reproductive Health (J.J.B.), University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - J J Brosens
- Imperial College Parturition Research Group (K.L., E.X.G., L.C., A.Y., S.R.S., M.R.J.), Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London SW10 9NH, United Kingdom; Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology (KL.,. E.X.G., A.Y., S.R.S., P.R.B., M.R.J.), Hammersmith Hospital Campus, London W12 0NN, United Kingdom; Obstetrics Department (L.C.), First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, People's Republic of China; and Reproductive Health (J.J.B.), University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - P R Bennett
- Imperial College Parturition Research Group (K.L., E.X.G., L.C., A.Y., S.R.S., M.R.J.), Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London SW10 9NH, United Kingdom; Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology (KL.,. E.X.G., A.Y., S.R.S., P.R.B., M.R.J.), Hammersmith Hospital Campus, London W12 0NN, United Kingdom; Obstetrics Department (L.C.), First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, People's Republic of China; and Reproductive Health (J.J.B.), University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| | - M R Johnson
- Imperial College Parturition Research Group (K.L., E.X.G., L.C., A.Y., S.R.S., M.R.J.), Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London SW10 9NH, United Kingdom; Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology (KL.,. E.X.G., A.Y., S.R.S., P.R.B., M.R.J.), Hammersmith Hospital Campus, London W12 0NN, United Kingdom; Obstetrics Department (L.C.), First Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 210029, People's Republic of China; and Reproductive Health (J.J.B.), University of Warwick, Coventry CV4 7AL, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
The Study of Pyridazine Compounds on Prostanoids: Inhibitors of COX, cAMP Phosphodiesterase, and TXA2Synthase. J CHEM-NY 2014. [DOI: 10.1155/2014/703238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The pyridazine moiety is an important structural feature of various pharmacological active compounds. Synthetic pyridazine compounds have been reported as effective antiprostaglandins (PGs), 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX), and antiplatelet agents, that is, inhibitors of prostaglandin or cyclooxygenase (COX-I & COX-II) enzyme, platelet cAMP phosphodiesterase, and thromboxane A2 (TXA2) synthase. These compounds are selective and nonselective COX inhibitors and showed analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic activity. Pyridazine compounds with antiplatelet agents inhibited TXA2enzyme. Pyridazines also exhibited antirheumatoid activity. These pyridazine compounds hold considerable interest relative to the preparation of organic intermediates and other anticipated biologically active compounds.
Collapse
|
7
|
Kidd MR, Dijkstra PD, Alcott C, Lavee D, Ma J, O’Connell LA, Hofmann HA. Prostaglandin F2α facilitates female mating behavior based on male performance. Behav Ecol Sociobiol 2013. [DOI: 10.1007/s00265-013-1559-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
|
8
|
Yang Y, Tang LQ, Wei W. Prostanoids receptors signaling in different diseases/cancers progression. J Recept Signal Transduct Res 2013; 33:14-27. [DOI: 10.3109/10799893.2012.752003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
|
9
|
Kandil M, Emarh M, Sayyed T, Masood A. Foley catheter versus intra-vaginal misoprostol for induction of labor in post-term gestations. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2012; 286:303-7. [PMID: 22434058 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-012-2292-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2012] [Accepted: 03/06/2012] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate whether a fluid filled intra-uterine extra-amniotic Foley catheter is an effective alternative to vaginal misoprostol in inducing labor in primigravid women with post-term gestations. PATIENTS AND METHODS A prospective quasi-randomized controlled trial was designed and 100 primigravid women with post-term gestations were enrolled and equally allocated into two groups. A fluid filled intra-uterine extra-amniotic Foley catheter was inserted in women of group I. Women in group II received 25 microgram misoprostol vaginally every 4 h. Artificial rupture of membranes was performed for all women when their cervices reached 3-4 cm dilatation followed by oxytocin infusion if needed. The main primary outcome parameter was the induction to delivery interval. Results were tabulated and statistically analyzed. RESULTS No significant difference was noted in any of the demographic data between both groups. The induction to delivery interval was shorter in the Foley group (897.36 ± 116.0 vs. 960.98 ± 94.18 min; P = 0.003). There were 34 cases which needed oxytocin augmentation in group I compared to 11 cases in group II (P < 0.01). Abnormal uterine activity occurred in three cases in the misoprostol group, but none in the Foley group. Ominous fetal heart rate was noted in one case in group I but three in group II. CONCLUSION Fluid filled Foley catheter seems to be superior to 25 μg vaginal misoprostol regimen, when used to induce labor in primigravidae with post-term gestations with the advantage of having a shorter induction delivery interval, but more need for oxytocin augmentation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Kandil
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Menofyia University, Shibin Elkom, Egypt.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Combination of misoprostol and mechanical dilation for induction of labour: a randomized controlled trial. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2011; 159:315-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2011.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2011] [Revised: 07/30/2011] [Accepted: 09/04/2011] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
|
11
|
Müller JC, Botelho GGK, Bufalo AC, Boareto AC, Rattmann YD, Martins ES, Cabrini DA, Otuki MF, Dalsenter PR. Morinda citrifolia Linn (Noni): in vivo and in vitro reproductive toxicology. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2009; 121:229-233. [PMID: 19015020 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2008.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2008] [Revised: 10/10/2008] [Accepted: 10/18/2008] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
UNLABELLED Morinda citrifolia Linn (syn. Noni) is a plant widely used as food and medicine worldwide but there are no toxicological tests about this plant focused on reproduction. AIM OF THE STUDY To investigate possible endocrine activity and toxic effect on the reproductive system of Wistar rats by exposure of aqueous extract of the Morinda citrifolia. MATERIALS AND METHODS Two experimental protocols in vivo were developed, (a) uterotrophic assay and (b) in utero and lactational assay, and one test in vitro to investigate the effect on the contractility of pregnant uteri isolated from rats (doses of the extract: 7.5, 75 and 750 mg/kg). RESULTS The uterotrophic assay indicates presence of in vivo antiestrogenic activity of extract at doses of 7.5 and 750 mg/kg. The in utero and lactation exposure showed that the treatment with extract at the dose of 7.5mg/kg induced a reduction of 50% in parturition index and an increase of 74% in postimplantation losses index. The in vitro test showed that uteri from rats treated with 7.5mg/kg of the extract presented a 50% reduction on contraction induced by arachidonic acid. CONCLUSION The exposure of aqueous extract of Morinda citrifolia in Wistar rats induced reproductive toxicity in nonlinear dose-response.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juliane C Müller
- Department of Pharmacology, Federal University of Paraná, P.O. Box 19031, CEP 81531-990 Curitiba, PR, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Nicola C, Chirpac A, Lala PK, Chakraborty C. Roles of Rho guanosine 5'-triphosphatase A, Rho kinases, and extracellular signal regulated kinase (1/2) in prostaglandin E2-mediated migration of first-trimester human extravillous trophoblast. Endocrinology 2008; 149:1243-51. [PMID: 18079197 DOI: 10.1210/en.2007-1136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Prostaglandin (PG) E(2) may regulate invasiveness of human placenta because we previously reported stimulation of migration of placental trophoblasts by PGE(2) acting through PGE receptor (EP)-1 and activating calpain. RhoA GTPase and its important effector Rho kinase (ROCK) have also been previously shown to regulate trophoblast migration. Using immortalized HTR-8/SVneo trophoblast cells and first-trimester human chorionic villus explant cultures on matrigel, we further examined the role of RhoA/ROCK and MAPK (ERK1/2) pathways on PGE(2)-mediated stimulation of trophoblast migration. Migration of cytotrophoblasts was shown to be inhibited by treatment of the trophoblast cell line and chorionic villus explants with either cell-permeable C3 transferase or selective RhoA small interfering RNA. These inhibitions were significantly mitigated by the addition of PGE(2), an EP1/EP3 agonist or an EP3/EP4 agonist, suggesting that RhoA plays an important role in trophoblast migration but may not be obligatory for PGE(2) action. Treatment of HTR-8/SVneo cells with nonselective ROCK inhibitor Y27632 or ROCK small interfering RNAs inhibited migration of these cells, which could not be rescued with PGE(2) or the other two EP agonists, suggesting the obligatory role of ROCK in PGE(2)-induced migratory response. Furthermore, U0126, an inhibitor of MAPK kinases MEK1 and MEK2, abrogated PGE(2)-induced migration of trophoblasts, and PGE(2) or the other two EP agonists stimulated ERK1/2 activation in trophoblasts, which was not abrogated by pretreatment with C3 transferase, indicating that ERK signaling pathway is an efficient alternate pathway for RhoA in PGE(2)-mediated migration of trophoblasts. These results suggest that ROCK and ERK1/2 play more important roles than RhoA in PGE(2)-mediated migration stimulation of first-trimester trophoblasts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Catalin Nicola
- Department of Anatomy, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, The University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada N6A 5C1
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Ayar A. TOCOLYTIC EFFECT OF PARECOXIB, A NEW PARENTERAL CYCLO-OXYGENASE-2-SPECIFIC INHIBITOR, ON THE SPONTANEOUS AND PROSTAGLANDIN-INDUCED CONTRACTIONS OF RAT ISOLATED MYOMETRIUM. Clin Exp Pharmacol Physiol 2007; 34:737-41. [PMID: 17600550 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1681.2007.04632.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
1. The present study was undertaken to elucidate the effects of parecoxib, a novel cyclo-oxygenase (COX)-2 inhibitor, on spontaneous and prostaglandin-induced contractions of uterine smooth muscle. 2. Non-pregnant adult Wistar rats were decapitated and dissected to isolate myometrial strips. The tissue was mounted in 5 mL organ baths filled with Krebs' solution that was maintained at 37 degrees C and bubbled continuously with a mixture of 95% O(2)-5% CO(2) to give pH 7.4. Contractions were recorded through transducers for isometric tension recording. The dose-dependent effects of parecoxib on contractility were quantified by changes in the mean amplitude, frequency and area under the contractile curve (AUC; percentage of control conditions) of the isometric tension recordings, averaged over 5 min intervals. Statistical analyses were performed using ANOVA. 3. Application of parecoxib (50-900 micromol/L) caused dose-dependent decreases in mean amplitude, mean frequency and mean AUC of both spontaneous and prostaglandin-induced contractions. Mean percentage inhibition of the AUC of spontaneous contractions was found to be 29, 56, 74 and 84% in the presence of 50, 150, 300 and 600 micromol/L parecoxib, resepctively (n = 8). In the case of prostaglandin (PG) F(2alpha)-induced contractions, 100, 300, 600 and 900 micromol/L parecoxib resulted in a 27, 43, 61 and 73% inhibition, respectively (n = 9). Moreover, pretreatment with parecoxib (600 micromol/L) reduced the responsiveness and maximum contractility to PGF(2alpha) compared with non-treated strips. 4. The data from the present study indicate, for the first time, that parecoxib inhibits spontaneous and prostaglandin-induced contractions of rat myometrium in vitro. These results raise the possibility that parecoxib may be of therapeutic use in the management of preterm labour and dysmenorrhoea.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Ayar
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Firat University, Elazig, Turkey.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Cirillo R, Tos EG, Page P, Missotten M, Quattropani A, Scheer A, Schwarz MK, Chollet A. Arrest of preterm labor in rat and mouse by an oral and selective nonprostanoid antagonist of the prostaglandin F2alpha receptor (FP). Am J Obstet Gynecol 2007; 197:54.e1-9. [PMID: 17618756 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2007.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2006] [Revised: 11/30/2006] [Accepted: 02/15/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to assess the tocolytic effect of AS604872, an orally active, potent, and selective prostanoid prostaglandin F2alpha receptor (FP) antagonist. STUDY DESIGN Compound AS604872 was characterized and tested for its ability to block uterine contraction and delay preterm parturition in rodent models. RESULTS AS604872 inhibited spontaneous uterine contractions in pregnant rat near term. In pregnant mouse, AS604872 delayed parturition induced by either the antiprogesterone RU-486 or the endotoxin lipopolysaccharide. Pups from treated mothers were delivered alive. The efficacy of AS604872 was superior to the beta-mimetic drug ritodrine. Combination of AS604872 and ritodrine showed an additive inhibitory effect on spontaneous uterine contractions in rat. CONCLUSION A selective antagonist of the FP receptor suppresses uterine contractility and delays labor. Our findings identify a new potential modality for the pharmacological management of preterm labor.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rocco Cirillo
- Istituto di Ricerche Biomediche A. Marxer. Merck Serono, Colleretto Giacosa, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Chollet A, Tos EG, Cirillo R. Tocolytic effect of a selective FP receptor antagonist in rodent models reveals an innovative approach to the treatment of preterm labor. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2007; 7 Suppl 1:S16. [PMID: 17570160 PMCID: PMC1892057 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2393-7-s1-s16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Management of preterm labor by tocolysis remains an unmet medical need. Prostaglandins play a major role in regulation of uterine activity and in molecular mechanisms of human labor and parturition. There is some circumstantial evidence that prostaglandin F2α by action through the prostaglandin receptor subtype FP is effective in key events during labor uterine contraction, rupture of membranes and cervical dilation. This role of FP is briefly reviewed. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that an orally active and selective FP antagonist may arrest labor and delay parturition in animal models. Methods We examined the effects of a small molecule selective antagonist of the FP receptor (AS604872) in inhibition of spontaneous uterine contraction in pregnant rat near term. We tested AS604872 for its ability to delay preterm birth in a mouse model in which the anti-progestin agent RU486 triggered parturition. Results By oral or intravenous dosing AS604872 reduced markedly and dose-dependently the spontaneous uterine contractions in late-term pregnant rats at gestational days 19–21. In pregnant mice, AS604872 delayed the preterm birth caused by RU486 administration. The effect was dose-dependent with a significant increase in the mean delivery time of 16 and 33 hours at oral doses of 30 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg, respectively, in the case of labor triggered at gestational day 14. In both models AS604872 appeared more effective than the β-agonist ritodrine. Conclusion The tocolytic activity displayed by a selective FP receptor antagonist supports a key role for the FP receptor in the pathophysiology of premature birth and demonstrates the therapeutic potential of an FP antagonist for the treatment of preterm labor cases in which uterine hyperactivity plays a dominant role.
Collapse
|
16
|
Ticconi C, Belmonte A, Piccione E, Rao CHV. Feto-placental communication system with the myometrium inpregnancy and parturition: the role of hormones, neurohormones, inflammatory mediators, and locally active factors. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2006; 19:125-33. [PMID: 16690504 DOI: 10.1080/14767050600555808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Pregnancy is a unique condition in which the conceptus is allowed to implant, survive, develop, and reach a considerable organ growth and maturation within the maternal body despite the fact that it is half genetically different from the mother. Moreover, it deeply influences the overall endocrine, metabolic, and immunological functions of the recipient mother. These objectives are accomplished through the establishment of several communication systems in which a large array of substances produced by the feto-placental unit reach specific maternal target organs and/or systems and modulate their function. The myometrium is a fundamental reproductive tissue involved in pregnancy maintenance as well as in labor onset and progression and is a potential target organ for such a communication system. An appropriate regulation of myometrial function is a key condition required for pregnancy to develop physiologically until full term is reached and for labor to start. Emerging experimental and clinical evidence suggests that a very complex feto-placental biomolecular communication system exists with the myometrium and is actively operative in the control of myometrial contractility in pregnancy and parturition through the production of a continuously increasing number of substances with endocrine, paracrine, and immunoregulatory actions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Carlo Ticconi
- Department of Surgery, Section of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Italy.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Abstract
Mammalian reproduction is a complicated process designed to diversify and strengthen the genetic complement of the offspring and to safeguard regulatory systems at various steps for propagating procreation. An emerging concept in mammalian reproduction is the role of endocannabinoids, a group of endogenously produced lipid mediators, that bind to and activate cannabinoid receptors. Although adverse effects of cannabinoids on fertility have been implicated for years, the mechanisms by which they exert these effects were not clearly understood. With the identification of cannabinoid receptors, endocannabinoid ligands, their key synthetic and hydrolytic pathways, and the generation of mouse models missing cannabinoid receptors, a wealth of information on the significance of cannabinoid/endocannabinoid signaling in spermatogenesis, fertilization, preimplantation embryo development, implantation, and postimplantation embryonic growth has been generated. This review focuses on various aspects of the endocannabinoid system in male and female fertility. It is hoped that a deeper insight would lead to potential clinical applications of the endocannabinoid signaling as a target for correcting infertility and improving reproductive health in humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haibin Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Li W, Gao L, Wang Y, Duan T, Myatt L, Sun K. Enhancement of cortisol-induced 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 expression by interleukin 1beta in cultured human chorionic trophoblast cells. Endocrinology 2006; 147:2490-5. [PMID: 16469798 DOI: 10.1210/en.2005-1626] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Chorion is the most abundant site of 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (11beta-HSD1) expression within intrauterine tissues. It is important to study the regulation of 11beta-HSD1 expression in the chorion in terms of local cortisol production during pregnancy. Using real-time PCR and enzyme activity assay, we found that cortisol (1 mum) and IL-1beta (10 ng/ml) for 24 h significantly increased 11beta-HSD1 mRNA expression and reductase activity in cultured human chorionic trophoblasts. A further significant increase of 11beta-HSD1 mRNA expression and reductase activity was observed with cotreatment of cortisol and IL-1beta. To explore the mechanism of induction, 11beta-HSD1 promoter was cloned into pGL3 plasmid expressing a luciferase reporter gene. By transfecting the constructed vector into WISH cells, an amnion-derived cell line, we found that cortisol (1 microM) or IL-1beta (10 ng/ml) significantly increased reporter gene expression. Likewise, an additional increase in reporter gene expression was observed with cotreatment of cortisol and IL-beta. To explore the physiological significance of 11beta-HSD1 induction in the chorion, we studied the effect of cortisol on cytosolic phospholipase A(2) and cyclooxygenase 2 expression. We found that treatment of chorionic trophoblast cells with cortisol (1 microM) induced both cytosolic phospholipase A(2) and cyclooxygenase 2 mRNA expression. We conclude that cortisol up-regulates 11beta-HSD1 expression through induction of promoter activity, and the effect was enhanced by IL-1beta, suggesting that more biologically active glucocorticoids could be generated in the fetal membranes in the presence of infection, which may consequently feed forward in up-regulation of prostaglandin synthesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenjiao Li
- School of Life Sciences, The First Maternal and Fetal Care Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Sun K, Qu X, Gao L, Myatt L. Dexamethasone Fails to Inhibit the Induction of Cytosolic Phospholipase A2 Expression by Interleukin-1β in Cultured Primary Human Amnion Fibroblasts. Placenta 2006; 27:164-70. [PMID: 16338461 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2005.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2005] [Revised: 03/07/2005] [Accepted: 03/07/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the interaction of dexamethasone and interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta) on the expression of cytosolic phospholipase A(2) (cPLA(2)), the enzyme catalyzing the first reaction in the formation of prostaglandins, in cultured primary human amnion fibroblasts. DESIGN AND METHODS Human amnion fibroblasts were prepared from fetal amnion collected at term and were treated with dexamethasone with or without interleukin-1beta for 24h. Prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)) output and cPLA(2) expression in cultured amnion fibroblasts were measured with radioimmunoassay, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, Western blotting and cPLA(2) promoter-driven luciferase reporter gene activity. RESULTS Both dexamethasone and IL-1beta caused a significant increase in prostaglandin E(2) output, cPLA(2) mRNA and protein expression in cultured human amnion fibroblasts. Both dexamethasone and IL-1beta stimulated cPLA(2) promoter-driven luciferase reporter gene activity. There was no obvious antagonistic or synergistic effect of combined treatment of dexamethasone and IL-1beta on PGE(2) output, cPLA(2) expression or cPLA(2) promoter-driven luciferase reporter gene activity in cultured human amnion fibroblasts. CONCLUSION The above findings suggest that paradoxically dexamethasone is a stimulator for both prostaglandin synthesis and cPLA(2) expression in human amnion fibroblasts. The interaction between dexamethasone and IL-1beta on prostaglandin synthesis and cPLA(2) expression is neither synergistic nor conventionally antagonistic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K Sun
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Second Military Medical University, 220 Handan Road, Shanghai 200433, P.R. China.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Hirsch E, Goldstein M, Filipovich Y, Wang H. Placental expression of enzymes regulating prostaglandin synthesis and degradation. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2005; 192:1836-42; discussion 1842-3. [PMID: 15970823 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2004.12.070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to characterize placental expression of the prostaglandin synthase enzymes cyclooxygenase (COX) -1 and -2 and prostaglandin dehydrogenase (PGDH, a degrading enzyme). STUDY DESIGN Forty-one women between 20 and 37 weeks' gestation and 39 matched term controls with either spontaneous labor or premature rupture of membranes were enrolled in a prospective case-control study. The relative amounts of placental RNAs at delivery were determined using real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). RESULTS Placental COX-1 RNA decreased with advancing gestational age at delivery (R(2) = 0.13, P = .001), and increased by 43% when chorioamnionitis was present (P = .006). Among patients presenting at term, oxytocin use was associated with 30% lower expression of COX-1 (P = .01). COX-2 and PGDH were not associated with these variables. CONCLUSION Placental COX-1 RNA at delivery decreases with advancing gestational age and with oxytocin use at term. Thus, expression of placental COX-1 is not constitutive. Placental expression of COX-2 and PGDH do not correlate with gestational age, chorioamnionitis, or oxytocin use.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emmet Hirsch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Evanston Northwestern Healthcare, IL, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Helliwell RJA, Berry EBE, O'Carroll SJ, Mitchell MD. Nuclear prostaglandin receptors: role in pregnancy and parturition? Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 2004; 70:149-65. [PMID: 14683690 DOI: 10.1016/j.plefa.2003.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The key regulatory role of prostanoids [prostaglandins (PGs) and thromboxanes (TXs)] in the maintenance of pregnancy and initiation of parturition has been established. However, our understanding of how these events are fine-tuned by the recruitment of specific signaling pathways remains unclear. Whereas, initial thoughts were that PGs were lipophilic and would easily cross cell membranes without specific receptors or transport processes, it has since been realized that PG signaling occurs via specific cell surface G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) coupled to classical adenylate cyclase or inositol phosphate signaling pathways. Furthermore, specific PG transporters have been identified and cloned adding a further level of complexity to the regulation of paracrine action of these potent bioactive molecules. It is now apparent that PGs also activate nuclear receptors, opening the possibility of novel intracrine signaling mechanisms. The existence of intracrine signaling pathways is further supported by accumulating evidence linking the perinuclear localization of PG synthesizing enzymes with intracellular PG synthesis. This review will focus on the evidence for a role of nuclear actions of PGs in the regulation of pregnancy and parturition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel J A Helliwell
- Department of Anatomy with Radiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, The University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Helliwell RJA, Adams LF, Mitchell MD. Prostaglandin synthases: recent developments and a novel hypothesis. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 2004; 70:101-13. [PMID: 14683687 DOI: 10.1016/j.plefa.2003.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 139] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Cells are continuously exposed to cues, which signal cell survival or death. Fine-tuning of these conflicting signals is essential for tissue development and homeostasis, and defective pathways are linked to many disease processes, especially cancer. It is well established that prostaglandins (PGs), as signalling molecules, are important regulators of cell proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis. PG production has been a focus of many researchers interested in the mechanisms of parturition. Previously, investigators have focussed on the committed step of PG biosynthesis, the conversion by prostaglandin H synthase (PGHS; also termed cyclo-oxygenase, COX) of arachidonic acid (AA) (substrate) to PGH2, the common precursor for biosynthesis of the various prostanoids. However, recently the genes encoding the terminal synthase enzymes involved in converting PGH2 to each of the bioactive PGs, including the major uterotonic PGs, PGE2 (PGE synthase) and PGF2alpha (PGF synthase), have been cloned and characterized. This review highlights how the regulation of the expression and balance of key enzymes can produce, from a single precursor, prostanoids with varied and often opposing effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel J A Helliwell
- Department of Anatomy with Radiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Sharma S, El-Refaey H. Prostaglandins in the prevention and management of postpartum haemorrhage. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2003; 17:811-23. [PMID: 12972016 DOI: 10.1016/s1521-6934(03)00071-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Myometrial contractility is integral to the delivery of the placenta and the arrest of potential subsequent haemorrhage. The details of this physiological process are patchy but it is clear that there is an important hormonal contribution. Oxytocin, with or without ergometrine, has thus been widely used with a recognized beneficial treatment effect. This practice, however, was never universal. The injectable nature of these agents restricted their wider use, even in societies with average medical services. The availability of the prostaglandin analogue misoprostol has renewed interest in the third stage of labour, has taken its pharmacological management to new frontiers, and has expanded the therapeutic options for the management of postpartum haemorrhage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sunita Sharma
- Academic Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|