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Thach B, Wang Y, Heng S, Nie G. HtrA4 is required for human trophoblast stem cell differentiation into syncytiotrophoblast. Placenta 2024; 147:68-77. [PMID: 38325051 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2024.01.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The syncytiotrophoblast (STB) of the human placenta facilitates vital maternal-fetal communication and is maintained by fusion (syncytialization) of cytotrophoblasts. Serine protease HtrA4 (high temperature requirement factor A4) is highly expressed only in the human placenta and was previously reported to be important for BeWo fusion. This study investigated whether HtrA4 is critical for differentiation of human trophoblast stem cells (TSCs) into STB. METHODS Primary TSCs were isolated from first trimester placentas (n = 5) and validated by immunofluorescence (IF) for CD49f, CK7 and vimentin. TSCs were then differentiated into STB and the success of syncytialization was confirmed by RT-PCR, IF and ELISA of known markers. TSCs were next stably transfected with a HtrA4-targetting CRISPR/Cas9 plasmid, and cells with severe HtrA4 knockdown (HtrA4-KD) were analyzed to investigate the impact on STB differentiation. RESULTS Primary TSCs were confirmed to be of high purity by staining positively for CD49f and CK7 but negatively for vimentin. These TSCs readily syncytialized when stimulated for STB differentiation, significantly increasing β-hCG and syncytin-1, substantially decreasing E-cadherin, and markedly losing cell borders. While TSCs produced very low levels of HtrA4, upon stimulation for STB differentiation the cells drastically upregulated HtrA4 expression; secretion of HtrA4 protein also increased sharply, correlating positively and significantly with that of β-hCG. The HtrA4-KD TSCs, however, failed to show this surge of HtrA4 production upon stimulation, and ultimately remained primarily mononucleated with no significant STB differentiation. DISCUSSION This study demonstrates that HtrA4 plays a critical role in TSC differentiation into syncytiotrophoblast.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bothidah Thach
- Implantation and Pregnancy Research Laboratory, School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3083, Australia
| | - Yao Wang
- Implantation and Pregnancy Research Laboratory, School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3083, Australia
| | - Sophea Heng
- Implantation and Pregnancy Research Laboratory, School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3083, Australia
| | - Guiying Nie
- Implantation and Pregnancy Research Laboratory, School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3083, Australia.
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Aljassim F, Georgopoulou N, Rigby CH, Powell SG, Wyatt JNR, Hapangama DK, Hill CJ. Exploring the presence of markers of decidualization in the fallopian tubes: a systematic review. Biol Reprod 2023; 109:125-136. [PMID: 37265359 PMCID: PMC10427808 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioad062] [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: 03/19/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The fallopian tubes (FTs) are part of the female upper genital tract. The healthy FT provides the biological environment for successful fertilization and facilitates the subsequent movement of the conceptus to the endometrial cavity. However, when the FT is damaged, as with salpingitis, pyosalpinx, and hydrosalpinx, it may increase the risk of an ectopic pregnancy, a life-threatening condition. Decidualization refers to a multifactorial process by which the endometrium changes to permit blastocyst implantation. The decidualization reaction is vital for endometrial receptivity during the window of implantation. To date, no comprehensive review that collates evidence on decidualization in the human FT has been conducted. Therefore, the aim of this review is to compile the current evidence on cellular decidualization occurring in the healthy and pathological FT in women of reproductive age. A literature search was conducted using five databases and identified 746 articles, 24 of which were analyzed based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. The available evidence indicates that the FT are able to undergo decidual changes under specific circumstances; however, the exact mechanism by which this occurs is poorly understood. Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanism by which decidualization can occur in the FT.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Aljassim
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK
| | - N Georgopoulou
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK
| | - C H Rigby
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK
| | - S G Powell
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK
| | - J N R Wyatt
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK
| | - D K Hapangama
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK
- Liverpool Women’s Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK
| | - C J Hill
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences, University of Liverpool, member of Liverpool Health Partners, Liverpool, UK
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Flores-Espinosa P, Méndez I, Irles C, Olmos-Ortiz A, Helguera-Repetto C, Mancilla-Herrera I, Ortuño-Sahagún D, Goffin V, Zaga-Clavellina V. Immunomodulatory role of decidual prolactin on the human fetal membranes and placenta. Front Immunol 2023; 14:1212736. [PMID: 37359537 PMCID: PMC10288977 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1212736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The close interaction between fetal and maternal cells during pregnancy requires multiple immune-endocrine mechanisms to provide the fetus with a tolerogenic environment and protection against any infectious challenge. The fetal membranes and placenta create a hyperprolactinemic milieu in which prolactin (PRL) synthesized by the maternal decidua is transported through the amnion-chorion and accumulated into the amniotic cavity, where the fetus is bedded in high concentrations during pregnancy. PRL is a pleiotropic immune-neuroendocrine hormone with multiple immunomodulatory functions mainly related to reproduction. However, the biological role of PRL at the maternal-fetal interface has yet to be fully elucidated. In this review, we have summarized the current information on the multiple effects of PRL, focusing on its immunological effects and biological significance for the immune privilege of the maternal-fetal interface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pilar Flores-Espinosa
- Departamento de Inmunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Isabel Méndez
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Campus UNAM-Juriquilla, Querétaro, Mexico
| | - Claudine Irles
- Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM) U978, Université Sorbonne Paris Nord, Unité de Formation et de Recherche (UFR) Santé Médecine et Biologie Humaine (SMBH), Bobigny, France
| | - Andrea Olmos-Ortiz
- Departamento de Inmunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Cecilia Helguera-Repetto
- Departamento de Inmunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Ismael Mancilla-Herrera
- Departamento de Infectología e Inmunología, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Daniel Ortuño-Sahagún
- Laboratorio de Neuroinmunobiología Molecular, Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias Biomédicas, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Mexico
| | - Vincent Goffin
- Université Paris Cité, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR)-S1151, CNRS Unité Mixte de Recherche (UMR)-S8253, Institut Necker Enfants Malades, Paris, France
| | - Verónica Zaga-Clavellina
- Departamento de Inmunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes, Ciudad de México, Mexico
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Zhao Y, Pasanen M, Rysä J. Placental ion channels: potential target of chemical exposure. Biol Reprod 2022; 108:41-51. [PMID: 36173899 PMCID: PMC9843680 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
The placenta is an important organ for the exchange of substances between the fetus and the mother, hormone secretion, and fetoplacental immunological defense. Placenta has an organ-specific distribution of ion channels and trophoblasts, and placental vessels express a large number of ion channels. Several placental housekeeping activities and pregnancy complications are at least partly controlled by ion channels, which are playing an important role in regulating hormone secretion, trophoblastic homeostasis, ion transport, and vasomotor activity. The function of several placental ion channels (Na, Ca, and Cl ion channels, cation channel, nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, and aquaporin-1) is known to be influenced by chemical exposure, i.e., their responses to different chemicals have been tested and confirmed in experimental models. Here, we review the possibility that placental ion channels are targets of toxicological concern in terms of placental function, fetal growth, and development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Markku Pasanen
- School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, Kuopio, Finland
| | - Jaana Rysä
- Correspondence: School of Pharmacy, University of Eastern Finland, POB 1627, Kuopio 70211, Finland. Tel: +358403552412; E-mail:
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Isolation of Decidual Macrophages and Hofbauer Cells from Term Placenta-Comparison of the Expression of CD163 and CD80. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23116113. [PMID: 35682791 PMCID: PMC9181726 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23116113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: Placental immune cells are playing a very important role in a successful placentation and the prevention of pregnancy complications. Macrophages dominate in number and relevance in the maternal and the fetal part of the placenta. The evidence on the polarization state of fetal and maternal macrophages involved in both, healthy and pregnancy-associated diseases, is limited. There is no representative isolation method for the direct comparison of maternal and fetal macrophages so far. (2) Material and Methods: For the isolation of decidual macrophages and Hofbauer cells from term placenta, fresh tissue was mechanically dissected and digested with trypsin and collagenase A. Afterwards cell enrichment was increased by a Percoll gradient. CD68 is represented as pan-macrophage marker, the surface markers CD80 and CD163 were further investigated. (3) Results: The established method revealed a high cell yield and purity of the isolated macrophages and enabled the comparison between decidual macrophages and Hofbauer cells. No significant difference was observed in the percentage of single CD163+ cells in the distinct macrophage populations, by using FACS and immunofluorescence staining. A slight increase of CD80+ cells could be found in the decidual macrophages. Considering the percentage of CD80+CD163− and CD80−CD163+ cells we could not find differences. Interestingly we found an increased number of double positive cells (CD80+CD163+) in the decidual macrophage population in comparison to Hofbauer cells. (4) Conclusion: In this study we demonstrate that our established isolation method enables the investigation of decidual macrophages and Hofbauer cells in the placenta. It represents a promising method for direct cell comparison, enzyme independently, and unaffected by magnetic beads, to understand the functional subsets of placental macrophages and to identify therapeutic targets of pregnancy associated diseases.
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Meister S, Kellner I, Beyer S, Corradini S, Schulz C, Rogenhofer N, Keilmann L, Kolben TM, Mahner S, Kessler M, Jeschke U, Kolben T. Epigenetic changes occur in placentas of spontaneous and recurrent miscarriages. J Reprod Immunol 2021; 149:103466. [PMID: 34929495 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2021.103466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Revised: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In contrast to genetic abnormalities which are well known to be responsible for around 50 % of human miscarriages, there is very few data about epigenetic alterations in spontaneous and recurrent miscarriages (SM, RM). The aim of this study was to analyze the histone modification marks H3K9ac and H3K4me3 in SM and RM. METHODS The abundance of histone modifications H3K4me3/H3K9ac was analyzed by western blot in frozen abortion material of SM and RM compared to a control group of legal pregnancy terminations. Further, to characterize placental tissue cells expressing H3K4me3/H3K9ac immunohistochemistry (IHC) and immunofluorescence was performed in 20 SM, 19 RM and 26 controls. RESULTS The western blot data showed a tendency to an overall reduction of H3K4me3/H3K9ac, in the placental tissue of particularly SM. Further we differentiated between syncytiotrophoblast, cytotrophoblast and decidual cells and found a significant decrease of H3K4me3 in SM in cytotrophoblast cells and syncytial stroma. In RM H3K4me3 was downregulated exclusively in the syncytiotrophoblast. H3K9ac was reduced in SM and RM in all evaluated compartments, except from the syncytiotrophoblast. CONCLUSION Our study showed an overall reduced histone modification of H3K4me3 and H3K9ac in the placental tissue of SM. Concerning RM, particularly the reduction of H3K9ac was detected in the placental tissue, indicating that RM group has distinct profile in epigenetic regulation. Whether these histone modifications are part of a possible pathophysiologic cascade during SM and RM or are merely indicating a defective placentation, cannot be concluded from this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Meister
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377, Munich, Germany; Walter-Brendel-Centre of Experimental Medicine, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany.
| | - Isabel Kellner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Susanne Beyer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Stefanie Corradini
- Department of Radiation Oncology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377, Germany
| | - Christian Schulz
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik I, Klinikum der Universität, LMU Munich, Marchioninistrasse 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Nina Rogenhofer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Lucia Keilmann
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Theresa Maria Kolben
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Sven Mahner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Mirjana Kessler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Udo Jeschke
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377, Munich, Germany; Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Augsburg, Stenglinstraße 2, 86156, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Thomas Kolben
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Marchioninistr. 15, 81377, Munich, Germany
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Examination of FERMT1 expression in placental chorionic villi and its role in HTR8-SVneo cell invasion. Histochem Cell Biol 2021; 155:669-681. [PMID: 33683437 DOI: 10.1007/s00418-021-01977-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Transmembrane integrin receptors mediate cell-extracellular matrix as well as cell-cell adhesion. As placental trophoblast cells undergo differentiation they display changes in integrin expression or switching, but the mechanism(s) of integrin activation that supports this differentiation is still unknown. The Fermitin family of adapter proteins (FERMT 1-3) are integrin activators that mediate integrin-mediated signaling. In this study, we examined the spatiotemporal pattern of expression of FERMT1 in human chorionic villi throughout gestation and its role in HTR8-SVneo substrate adhesion and invasion. Placental villous tissue was obtained from patients undergoing elective terminations at weeks 8-14, as well as from term deliveries at weeks 37-40 and analyzed by immunofluorescence. Additionally, HTR8-SVneo trophoblast cells were transfected with FERMT1-specific siRNA or non-targeting siRNA (control) and used in cell-substrate adhesion as well as invasion assays. FERMT1 was primarily localized to membrane-associated regions at the base or around the periphery of the villous cytotrophoblast and proximal as well as distal cell column trophoblast. FERMT1 was also localized to endothelial cells of blood vessels in chorionic villi. siRNA-mediated depletion of FERMT1 in HTR8-SVneo cells did not markedly alter HTR8-SVneo cell-substrate adhesion but did significantly decrease invasion (P < 0.05) compared to control cells. These novel findings identify the presence of the integrin activator FERMT1 in trophoblast cells and that FERMT1 can regulate HTR8-SVneo cell invasion. FERMT1 may directly influence integrin activation and the subsequent integrin-mediated signaling and differentiation that underlies the acquisition of the invasive trophoblast phenotype in vivo.
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Traditional and New Routes of Trophoblast Invasion and Their Implications for Pregnancy Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 21:ijms21010289. [PMID: 31906245 PMCID: PMC6981830 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21010289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Revised: 12/26/2019] [Accepted: 12/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Historically, invasion of placental trophoblasts was thought to be extremely specific, only invading into the connective tissues of the maternal uterus and finally reaching and transforming the uterine spiral arteries. Only recently, identification of new routes of trophoblast invasion into different structures of the maternal uterus has been achieved. Thorough morphological analysis has resulted in the identification of trophoblasts invading into glands, veins, and lymph vessels of the uterine wall. These new routes pave the way for a re-evaluation of trophoblast invasion during normal placental development. Of course, such new routes of trophoblast invasion may well be altered, especially in pregnancy pathologies such as intra-uterine growth restriction, preeclampsia, early and recurrent pregnancy loss, stillbirth, and spontaneous abortion. Maybe one or more of these pregnancy pathologies show alterations in different pathways of trophoblast invasion, and, thus, etiologies may need to be redefined, and new therapies may be developed.
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Knöfler M, Haider S, Saleh L, Pollheimer J, Gamage TKJB, James J. Human placenta and trophoblast development: key molecular mechanisms and model systems. Cell Mol Life Sci 2019; 76:3479-3496. [PMID: 31049600 PMCID: PMC6697717 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-019-03104-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 333] [Impact Index Per Article: 66.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Revised: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 04/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Abnormal placentation is considered as an underlying cause of various pregnancy complications such as miscarriage, preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction, the latter increasing the risk for the development of severe disorders in later life such as cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Despite their importance, the molecular mechanisms governing human placental formation and trophoblast cell lineage specification and differentiation have been poorly unravelled, mostly due to the lack of appropriate cellular model systems. However, over the past few years major progress has been made by establishing self-renewing human trophoblast stem cells and 3-dimensional organoids from human blastocysts and early placental tissues opening the path for detailed molecular investigations. Herein, we summarize the present knowledge about human placental development, its stem cells, progenitors and differentiated cell types in the trophoblast epithelium and the villous core. Anatomy of the early placenta, current model systems, and critical key regulatory factors and signalling cascades governing placentation will be elucidated. In this context, we will discuss the role of the developmental pathways Wingless and Notch, controlling trophoblast stemness/differentiation and formation of invasive trophoblast progenitors, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Knöfler
- Reproductive Biology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 5Q, 1090, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Sandra Haider
- Reproductive Biology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 5Q, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Leila Saleh
- Reproductive Biology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 5Q, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Jürgen Pollheimer
- Reproductive Biology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Vienna, Währinger Gürtel 18-20, 5Q, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Teena K J B Gamage
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Joanna James
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Pollheimer J, Vondra S, Baltayeva J, Beristain AG, Knöfler M. Regulation of Placental Extravillous Trophoblasts by the Maternal Uterine Environment. Front Immunol 2018; 9:2597. [PMID: 30483261 PMCID: PMC6243063 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.02597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 218] [Impact Index Per Article: 36.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 10/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
During placentation invasive extravillous trophoblasts (EVTs) migrate into the maternal uterus and modify its vessels. In particular, remodeling of the spiral arteries by EVTs is critical for adapting blood flow and nutrient transport to the developing fetus. Failures in this process have been noticed in different pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction, stillbirth, or recurrent abortion. Upon invasion into the decidua, the endometrium of pregnancy, EVTs encounter different maternal cell types such as decidual macrophages, uterine NK (uNK) cells and stromal cells expressing a plethora of growth factors and cytokines. Here, we will summarize development of the EVT lineage, a process occurring independently of the uterine environment, and formation of its different subtypes. Further, we will discuss interactions of EVTs with arteries, veins and lymphatics and illustrate how the decidua and its different immune cells regulate EVT differentiation, invasion and survival. The present literature suggests that the decidual environment and its soluble factors critically modulate EVT function and reproductive success.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jürgen Pollheimer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Sigrid Vondra
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Jennet Baltayeva
- British Columbia's Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Alexander Guillermo Beristain
- British Columbia's Children's Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Martin Knöfler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Kawamura E, Hamilton GB, Miskiewicz EI, MacPhee DJ. Fermitin family homolog-2 (FERMT2) is highly expressed in human placental villi and modulates trophoblast invasion. BMC DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY 2018; 18:19. [PMID: 30382829 PMCID: PMC6211606 DOI: 10.1186/s12861-018-0178-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2018] [Accepted: 10/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Background Integrins are transmembrane receptors that mediate cell–extracellular matrix (ECM) and cell-cell adhesion and trophoblast cells undergo changes in integrin expression as they differentiate. However, the mechanism(s) of integrin activation leading to integrin-mediated signaling in trophoblast cell differentiation is unknown. The Fermitin family proteins are integrin activators that help mediate integrin-mediated signaling, but have never been studied in detail within the human placenta. Thus, we examined the spatiotemporal pattern of expression of Fermitin family homolog-2 (FERMT2) in human chorionic villi throughout gestation and its role in trophoblast-substrate adhesion and invasion. Methods Placental villous tissue was obtained from patients undergoing elective terminations by dilatation and curettage at weeks 8–12 (n = 10), weeks 13–14 (n = 8), as well as from term deliveries at weeks 37–40 (n = 6). Tissues were fixed, processed and sections utilized for immunofluorescence analysis of FERMT2 expression during gestation. Additionally, HTR8-SVneo human trophoblast cells were transfected by electroporation with FERMT2-specific siRNAs or non-targeting siRNAs (control) and used in cell-substrate adhesion as well as invasion assays. Results FERMT2 was more commonly expressed in the basal domain of villous cytotrophoblast cells and prominently localized around the periphery of individual extravillous trophoblast cells. siRNA-mediated knockdown of FERMT2 in HTR8-SVneo cells resulted in significantly decreased trophoblast-substrate attachment (p < 0.05) as well as significantly decreased trophoblast invasion (p < 0.05) relative to control cells. Conclusions The detection of FERMT2 throughout extravillous trophoblast columns and the results of invasion assays demonstrated that this protein is likely an important regulator of integrin activation in extravillous cells to modulate migration and invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eiko Kawamura
- Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, 52 Campus Dr, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5B4, Canada
| | - Gina B Hamilton
- Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, A1B 3V6, Canada
| | - Ewa I Miskiewicz
- Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, 52 Campus Dr, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5B4, Canada
| | - Daniel J MacPhee
- Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences, Western College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, 52 Campus Dr, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5B4, Canada. .,One Reproductive Health Research Group, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, S7N 5B4, Canada.
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Abstract
Embryo implantation consists of a series of events promoting the invasion of the endometrium and then the uterine arterial system by the extra-embryonic trophoblast. In order for this semi-heterologous implantation to succeed, the endometrium has to first undergo a number of structural and biochemical changes (decidualization). The decidua's various constituents subsequently play a role in the embryonic implantation. The third step is the transformation of the uterine vascular system and the growth of the placenta, which will provide the foetoplacental unit with nutrients. Several physiopathological aspects will be discussed: 1) the implantation window, regulated by maternal and embryonic hormonal secretions and thus influenced by any defects in the latter: dysharmonic luteal phase, 21-hydroxylase block, abnormal integrin expression, 2) the successive trophoblast invasions of uterine vessels which, when defective, lead to early embryo loss or late-onset vascular pathologies, as preeclampsia, 3) the pregnancy's immunological equilibrium, with a spontaneously tolerated semi-allogeneic implant, 4) the impact of pro-coagulant factors (thrombophilia) on the pregnancy's progression, 5) the environment of the uterus, ranging from hydrosalpinx to uterine contractions. In summary, the least anatomical or physiological perturbation can interfere with human embryonic implantation - a very particular phenomenon and a true biological paradox.
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Velicky P, Knöfler M, Pollheimer J. Function and control of human invasive trophoblast subtypes: Intrinsic vs. maternal control. Cell Adh Migr 2015; 10:154-62. [PMID: 26418186 PMCID: PMC4853032 DOI: 10.1080/19336918.2015.1089376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
The establishment of a functional placenta is pivotal for normal fetal development and the maintenance of pregnancy. In the course of early placentation, trophoblast precursors differentiate into highly invasive trophoblast subtypes. These cells, referred to as extravillous trophoblasts (EVTs), penetrate the maternal uterus reaching as far as the inner third of the myometrium. One of the most fundamental functions of EVTs is the transformation of spiral arteries to establish the uteroplacental blood circulation assuring an adequate nutrient and gas supply to the developing fetus. To achieve this, specialized EVT subpopulations interact with maternal immune cells, provoke elastolysis in the arterial wall and replace the endothelial cells lining the spiral arteries to induce intraluminal vascular remodeling. These and other trophoblast-mediated processes are tightly controlled by paracrine signals from the maternal decidua and furthermore underlie an intrinsic cell-type specific program. Various severe pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia or intrauterine growth retardation are associated with abnormal EVT function, shallow invasion, and decreased blood flow to the placenta. Hence a better understanding of human trophoblast invasion seems mandatory to improve therapeutic intervention. This approach, however, requires a profound knowledge of the human placenta, its various trophoblast subtypes and in particular a better understanding of the regulatory network that controls the invasive phenotype of EVTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philipp Velicky
- a Department of Obstetrics and Fetal-Maternal Medicine , Reproductive Biology Unit, Medical University of Vienna , Vienna , Austria
| | - Martin Knöfler
- a Department of Obstetrics and Fetal-Maternal Medicine , Reproductive Biology Unit, Medical University of Vienna , Vienna , Austria
| | - Jürgen Pollheimer
- a Department of Obstetrics and Fetal-Maternal Medicine , Reproductive Biology Unit, Medical University of Vienna , Vienna , Austria
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Wang Y, Zhang Y, Li MQ, Fan DX, Wang XH, Li DJ, Jin LP. Interleukin-25 induced by human chorionic gonadotropin promotes the proliferation of decidual stromal cells by activation of JNK and AKT signal pathways. Fertil Steril 2014; 102:257-63. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.03.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2013] [Revised: 03/12/2014] [Accepted: 03/12/2014] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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15
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Meinhardt G, Haider S, Haslinger P, Proestling K, Fiala C, Pollheimer J, Knöfler M. Wnt-dependent T-cell factor-4 controls human etravillous trophoblast motility. Endocrinology 2014; 155:1908-20. [PMID: 24605829 DOI: 10.1210/en.2013-2042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Formation of migratory extravillous trophoblasts (EVTs) is critical for human placentation and hence embryonic development. However, key regulatory growth factors, hormones, and nuclear proteins controlling the particular differentiation process remain poorly understood. Here, the role of the Wingless (Wnt)-dependent transcription factor T-cell factor-4 (TCF-4) in proliferation and motility was investigated using different trophoblast cell models. Immunofluorescence of first-trimester placental tissues revealed induction of TCF-4 and nuclear recruitment of its coactivator β-catenin in nonproliferating EVTs, whereas membrane-associated β-catenin decreased upon differentiation. In addition, EVTs expressed the TCF-4/β-catenin coactivator Pygopus 2 as well as repressors of the Groucho/transducin-like enhancer of split family. Western blotting revealed Pygopus 2 expression and up-regulation of integrin α1 and nuclear TCF-4 in purified first-trimester cytotrophoblasts (CTBs) differentiating on fibronectin. Concomitantly, elevated TCF-4 mRNA, quantitated by real-time PCR, and increased TCF-dependent luciferase reporter activity were noticed in EVTs of villous explant cultures and differentiated primary CTBs. Gene silencing using specific small interfering RNA decreased TCF-4 transcript and protein levels, TCF-dependent reporter activity as well as basal and Wnt3a-stimulated migration of trophoblastic SGHPL-5 cells and primary CTBs through fibronectin-coated transwells. In contrast, proliferation of SGHPL-5 cells and primary cells, measured by cumulative cell numbers and 5-bromo-2'-deoxy-uridine labeling, respectively, was not affected. Moreover, siRNA-mediated down-regulation of TCF-4 in primary CTBs diminished markers of the differentiated EVT, such as integrin α1 and α5, Snail1, and Notch2. In summary, the data suggest that Wnt/TCF-4-dependent signaling could play a role in EVT differentiation promoting motility and expression of promigratory genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gudrun Meinhardt
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal-Maternal Medicine (G.M., S.H., P.H., J.P., M.K.), Reproductive Biology Unit, and Department of Gynecology (K.P.), Medical University of Vienna, A-1090 Vienna, Austria; and Gynmed Clinic (C.F.), A-1150 Vienna, Austria
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Candelier JJ, Frappart L, Diatta AL, Yadaden T, Cissé ML, Afoutou JM, Picard JY, Mennesson B, Slim R, Si-Tayeb K, Coullin P. Differential expression of E-cadherin, β-catenin, and Lewis x between invasive hydatidiform moles and post-molar choriocarcinomas. Virchows Arch 2013; 462:653-63. [DOI: 10.1007/s00428-013-1427-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2012] [Revised: 05/06/2013] [Accepted: 05/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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17
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Candelier JJ, Frappart L, Yadaden T, Poaty H, Picard JY, Prévot S, Coullin P. Altered p16 and Bcl-2 Expression Reflects Pathologic Development in Hydatidiform Moles and Choriocarcinoma. Pathol Oncol Res 2012; 19:217-27. [DOI: 10.1007/s12253-012-9572-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2012] [Accepted: 09/18/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
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18
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Placental expression of CD100, CD72 and CD45 is dysregulated in human miscarriage. PLoS One 2012; 7:e35232. [PMID: 22606231 PMCID: PMC3350501 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0035232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2011] [Accepted: 03/13/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Context and Objective The etiology of miscarriage is often multifactorial. One major cause, immunological rejection of the fetus, has not been clearly elucidated. Our aim was to establish whether the semaphorin CD100, its natural receptor CD72, and the glycoprotein CD45, implicated in immune mechanisms, are involved in pregnancy loss by examining their placental expression with real-time PCR, immunohistochemistry and western blotting techniques. Patients Placenta tissue from 72 Caucasian women undergoing surgical uterine evacuation due to early spontaneous pregnancy loss between the 8th and 12th week of gestation was divided into four groups based on miscarriage number. Gestational age-matched placentas from 18 healthy women without a history of miscarriage undergoing voluntary pregnancy termination were the control group. Placenta from 6 Caesarean deliveries performed at 38–40 weeks of gestation was also studied. Results CD100, CD72 and CD45 were expressed in placenta and exhibited different mRNA and protein levels in normal pregnancy and miscarriage. In particular, protein levels were highly dysregulated around 10 weeks of gestation in first and second miscarriage placentas. The CD100 soluble form was produced and immediately shed from placental tissue in all samples. Conclusions Fetal CD100, CD72 and CD45 seem to play a role in miscarriage. The present data support the involvement of the fetal immune system in pregnancy maintenance as well as failure.
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19
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Immunological regulation of trophoblast invasion. J Reprod Immunol 2011; 90:21-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2011.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2011] [Revised: 04/21/2011] [Accepted: 05/02/2011] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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Serafini P, Da Rocha AM, De Toledo Osório CAB, Smith GD, Hassun PA, da Silva IGDCG, Da Motta ELA, Baracat EC. Protein profile of the luteal phase endometrium by tissue microarray assessment. Gynecol Endocrinol 2009; 25:587-92. [PMID: 19557595 DOI: 10.1080/09513590902972018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
To investigate the luteal phase endometrial expression of leukemia inhibitor factor (LIF), insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), progesterone receptor (PR), claudin 4 (CLDN4), vascular-endothelial growth factor receptor 3 (VEGFR-3), bone morphogenetic protein 4 (BMP-4) and citokeratin 7 (CK-7), we obtained luteal phase endometrial samples from 52 women. Samples were dated and integrated using a tissue microarray (TMA). Samples were immunostained for LIF, IGF-1, PR, CLDN4, VEGFR-3, BMP-4 and CK-7. Frequencies of positive expressions at the early, mid and late luteal phases were compared by two proportions test. Concomitant expression of these proteins was assessed with Chi-square or Fischer's test. The frequency of LIF was positively correlated to the frequency of IGF-1 (r = 0.99; p < 0.05) and PR (r = 0.99; p < 0.05), and the correlation between IGF-1 and PR tended to be significant (r = 0.98; p < 0.1). The expression of PR was associated with the absence of CLDN4 (p < 0.001). Thus, expression of LIF, IGF-1 and PR are correlated during the luteal phase, and immunohistochemistry for these proteins might be used to assist in the assessment of endometrial maturation. In addition, the expression of CLDN4 and PR was not concomitant, warranting further investigation on the relationship of their endometrial expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paulo Serafini
- Department of Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
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21
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Abstract
Trophoblast invasion can be seen as a tightly regulated battle between the competing interests of the survival of the fetus and those of the mother. Successful pregnancy is dependent on the trophoblast invading the mother, attaching the pregnancy to the uterus and securing an adequate supply of oxygen and nutrient to the fetus. For successful invasion to occur, extravillous trophoblast has to perform a range of functions; transformation of the maternal spiral arteries, tolerate hypoxia, proliferate and die by apoptosis (programmed cell death), differentiate, adhere to and digest the extracellular matrix, move and interact with the maternal immune system. Each of these functions has multiple overlapping control systems so that trophoblast invasion is a finely controlled balance of competing mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheba Anin Anin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Liverpool, UK
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22
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Grisaru-Granovsky S, Maoz M, Barzilay O, Yin YJ, Prus D, Bar-Shavit R. Protease activated receptor-1, PAR1, promotes placenta trophoblast invasion and beta-catenin stabilization. J Cell Physiol 2009; 218:512-21. [PMID: 19040205 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.21625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Despite extensive efforts toward elucidation of the molecular pathway controlling cytotrophoblast (CTB) invasion to the uterine decidua, it remains poorly defined. There are striking similarities between tumor cell invasion and cytotrophoblast implantation to the deciduas whereby the role of Protease Activated Receptors (PARs) and wnt signaling is well recognized. We examine here consequences of modulation of PAR1 and PAR2 expression and function on CTB invasion and beta-catenin stabilization. Toward this end, we utilized a model system of extravillous trophoblast (EVT) organ culture and various placenta cell lines (e.g., JAR and HTR-8/Svneo). Activation of PAR1 induces EVT invasion while hPar1-SiRNA and PAR1 antagonist SCH79797--effectively inhibited it. In parallel, the Wnt inhibitor Dickkopf-1 (Dkk1) similarly inhibited it. Nuclear localization of beta-catenin is seen only after PAR1 activation, and is markedly reduced following the application of hPar1-SiRNA construct and PAR1 antagonist in CTBs. In contrast, PAR2 elicited a low cytoplasmic beta-catenin level as also proliferation and invasion. In the non-activated CTBs in-comparison, beta-catenin appeared limited to the membrane pools. Concomitantly, a temporal regulated pattern of Wnt-4, 5a, 7b, 10a, 10b expression is seen along PAR1 appearance. Enforced expression of Wnt antagonists, Secreted Frizzled Related Proteins; SFRP2 & 5; into HTR-8/Svneo, resulted with a markedly reduced nuclear beta-catenin levels, similar to the effect obtained by hPar1-SiRNA treatment. Identification of PAR1 downstream target/s may nonetheless contribute to the formation of a future platform system for eliciting a firm placenta-uterus interactions and to the definition of late pregnancy outcomes.
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23
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Ganeff C, Chatel G, Munaut C, Frankenne F, Foidart JM, Winkler R. The IGF system in in-vitro human decidualization. Mol Hum Reprod 2008; 15:27-38. [PMID: 19038974 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gan073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Decidualization of endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) is critical for a successful pregnancy but the molecular mechanisms of the process are poorly understood. In this study, we investigated whether the insulin-like growth factor (IGF) network is involved in this cellular process. Expression kinetics of members of the IGF system was examined at both mRNA and protein levels during in-vitro decidualization of cultured human ESCs. We found a significant up-regulation of IGF-II as well as of IGF-I receptor and the A and B insulin receptor (InsR) isoforms. In addition, levels of the key adaptor proteins insulin receptor substrate 1 (IRS-1) and IRS-2 increased, suggesting a potential involvement of the IGF signalling pathway in the decidualization process. Expression of two IGF binding proteins, IGFBP-1 and IGFBP-4, which can inhibit IGF action, also increased. In order to determine whether IGF signalling was activated during decidualization, the phosphorylation status of the receptors and the adaptor proteins was estimated. Only IRS-2 was slightly phosphorylated in decidualized cells and was further activated by the addition of exogenous IGF-II. These results suggest that the IGF signalling pathway could play a crucial role in the functions of decidualized endometrial cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Ganeff
- Laboratory of Tumor and Development Biology, Center of Experimental Cancer Research, University of Liège, GIGA-R, B-4000 Liège, Belgium
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24
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Marco DE, Cannas SA, Montemurro MA, Hu B, Cheng SY. Comparable ecological dynamics underlie early cancer invasion and species dispersal, involving self-organizing processes. J Theor Biol 2008; 256:65-75. [PMID: 18930739 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtbi.2008.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2008] [Revised: 08/01/2008] [Accepted: 09/18/2008] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Occupancy of new habitats through dispersion is a central process in nature. In particular, long-distance dispersal is involved in the spread of species and epidemics, although it has not been previously related with cancer invasion, a process that involves cell spreading to tissues far away from the primary tumour. Using simulations and real data we show that the early spread of cancer cells is similar to the species individuals spread and we suggest that both processes are represented by a common spatio-temporal signature of long-distance dispersal and subsequent local proliferation. This signature is characterized by a particular fractal geometry of the boundaries of patches generated, and a power-law scaled, disrupted patch size distribution. In contrast, invasions involving only dispersal but not subsequent proliferation ("physiological invasions") like trophoblast cells invasion during normal human placentation did not show the patch size power-law pattern. Our results are consistent under different temporal and spatial scales, and under different resolution levels of analysis. We conclude that the scaling properties are a hallmark and a direct result of long-distance dispersal and proliferation, and that they could reflect homologous ecological processes of population self-organization during cancer and species spread. Our results are significant for the detection of processes involving long-range dispersal and proliferation like cancer local invasion and metastasis, biological invasions and epidemics, and for the formulation of new cancer therapeutical approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana E Marco
- Laboratorio de Ecología Matemática, Area de Producción Orgánica, Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Ciudad Universitaria, Córdoba, Argentina.
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25
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von Rango U. Fetal tolerance in human pregnancy—A crucial balance between acceptance and limitation of trophoblast invasion. Immunol Lett 2008; 115:21-32. [DOI: 10.1016/j.imlet.2007.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2007] [Revised: 09/27/2007] [Accepted: 09/30/2007] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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Elustondo PA, Hannigan GE, Caniggia I, MacPhee DJ. Integrin-linked kinase (ILK) is highly expressed in first trimester human chorionic villi and regulates migration of a human cytotrophoblast-derived cell line. Biol Reprod 2006; 74:959-68. [PMID: 16436524 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.105.050419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The placenta represents a critically important fetal-maternal interaction. Trophoblast migration and invasion into the uterine wall is a precisely controlled process and aberrations in these processes are implicated in diseases such as preeclampsia. Integrin-linked kinase (ILK) is a multifunctional, cytoplasmic, serine/threonine kinase that has been implicated in regulating processes such as cell proliferation, survival, migration, and invasion; yet the temporal and spatial pattern of expression of ILK in human chorionic villi and its role in early human placental development are completely unknown. We hypothesized that ILK would be expressed in trophoblast subtypes of human chorionic villi during early placental development and that it would regulate trophoblast migration. Immunoblot analysis revealed that ILK protein was highly detectable in placental tissue samples throughout gestation. In floating branches of chorionic villi, from 6 to 15 wk of gestation immunofluorescence analysis of ILK expression in placental tissue sections demonstrated that ILK was highly detectable in the cytoplasm and membranes of villous cytotrophoblast cells and in stromal mesenchyme, whereas it was barely detectable in the syncytiotrophoblast layer. In anchoring branches of villi, ILK was highly localized to plasma membranes of extravillous trophoblast cells. Transient expression of dominant negative E359K-ILK in the villous explant-derived trophoblast cell line HTR8-SVneo dramatically reduced migration into wounds compared to cells expressing wild-type ILK or empty vector. Therefore, our work has demonstrated that ILK is highly expressed in trophoblast subtypes of human chorionic villi during the first trimester of pregnancy and is a likely mediator of trophoblast migration during this period of development.
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Affiliation(s)
- P A Elustondo
- Division of Basic Medical Sciences, Health Sciences Centre, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada A1B 3V6
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Itakura S, Ohno K, Ueki T, Sato K, Kanayama N. Expression of Golf in the rat placenta: Possible implication in olfactory receptor transduction. Placenta 2006; 27:103-8. [PMID: 16310044 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2004.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2004] [Revised: 12/12/2004] [Accepted: 12/15/2004] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Olfactory receptors are G-protein coupled receptors and are encoded by an extremely large and diverse family of genes in mammals. There is increasing evidence that olfactory receptors are widely distributed in many organs, suggesting that olfactory receptors do not only recognize airborne odorants but also play important roles in chemotaxis or organ construction in embryo. In this study, we investigated whether olfactory receptors and their transduction molecule, Golf are expressed in the rat placenta. By RT-PCR, we identified 11 different olfactory receptor genes, which are all members of class II, in the rat placenta cDNAs, and our results suggested that particular members of the olfactory receptor gene family might be preferentially expressed in the placenta. By western blot analysis, we demonstrated that Golf protein is expressed in the placenta and its expression levels are developmentally regulated. We found that Golf immunoreactivity is exclusively localized to giant cell trophoblasts and spongiotrophoblast cells. These findings raised a possibility that a particular subset of olfactory receptors might be coupled with Golf and function in giant cell trophoblasts and spongiotrophoblast cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Itakura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka 432-3192, Japan
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28
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von Rango U, Alfer J, Kertschanska S, Kemp B, Müller-Newen G, Heinrich PC, Beier HM, Classen-Linke I. Interleukin-11 expression: its significance in eutopic and ectopic human implantation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2004; 10:783-92. [PMID: 15465850 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gah107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Embryo implantation and subsequent decidualization, trophoblast invasion and formation of a functional placenta are crucial for establishment and maintenance of pregnancy. Interleukin-11 signalling has been shown to be obligatory for adequate decidualization and trophoblast invasion in mice. Defects in IL-11 signalling in mice result in trophoblast over-invasion and fetal loss. The pathological situation of human tubal pregnancy resembles that of IL-11Ralpha(-/-) mice concerning these symptoms. As our interest is focused on the human early pregnancy, we compared IL-11 expression at the implantation site of ectopic tubal pregnancy (EP) to 1st and 2nd trimester of normal intrauterine pregnancies (IP), and to the normal cycling endometrium. The mRNA expression of IL-11 and IL-11Ralpha was analysed by semiquantitative RT-PCR. Protein expression was detected by western blotting and immunohistochemistry. IL-11Ralpha is expressed constitutively in all tissue specimens analysed. IL-11 is expressed predominantly during follicular and early luteal phase of the menstrual cycle. In IP, IL-11 expression peaks during the 1st trimester and declines from the beginning of the 2nd trimester onwards. In tubal abortions, IL-11 expression is reduced in comparison to vital EP and IP. Cultured primary endometrial and decidual epithelial cells were analysed for hormonal regulation of IL-11 by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and RT-PCR. IL-11 is up-regulated by estrogen and down-regulated by progesterone. Overall, our results indicate that in humans, IL-11 signalling is significantly involved in regulation of trophoblast invasion. In the case of tubal abortion, inadequate IL-11 signalling may therefore result in dysregulation of trophoblast invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- U von Rango
- Department of Anatomy and Reproductive Biology, RWTH University of Aachen, Wendlingweg 2, 52057 Aachen, Germany.
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