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Martín-Palumbo G, Alcorta MD, de Aguado MP, Antolín E, Bartha JL. Urinary sFlt-1 and PlGF as preeclampsia predictors: sFlt-1/creatinine ratio improves the prediction value. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2024; 298:53-60. [PMID: 38728842 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2024.05.002] [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: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 04/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the correlation between maternal serum and urinary soluble Fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) and placental growth factor (PlGF) levels and to assess their potential value in preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction. STUDY DESIGN This case-control longitudinal prospective study was performed in 49 singleton pregnant women, divided into two clinical groups, low risk pregnancy (n = 23) and pregnancy complicated by preeclampsia (n = 26). Maternal serum and urinary sFlt-1 and PlGF levels were quantified by electrochemiluminescence. Every patient underwent an ultrasound for fetal biometry. Doppler assessment was done when estimated fetal weight was under the 10th centile. ROC curves were used to evaluate the predictive capability of serum and urinary angiogenic biomarkers and their ratios on preeclampsia. Linear regression was used to compare the values of serum and urinary sFlt-1 and PlGF and their ratios. RESULTS Urine biomarkers were positively associated with their serum values, being the best associated urinary PlGF (R2 = 0.73), which also showed the highest predictive capability of preeclampsia of urine biomarkers (AUC 0.866). The predictive capability of urinary sFlt-1 was much lower (AUC 0.640), but increased when adjusting by serum creatinine, a more precise parameter (AUC 0.863). CONCLUSIONS Urinary PlGF could be a lesser invasive alternative to circulating biomarkers to monitor pregnancies complicated with preeclampsia that need repeated controls of their pregnancy complication. Urinary sFlt-1 values need adjustment by serum creatinine to be reliable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Martín-Palumbo
- Division of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain.
| | | | - Marta Pérez de Aguado
- Division of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - Eugenia Antolín
- Division of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
| | - José Luis Bartha
- Division of Maternal and Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain; Obstetrics and Gynecology of the Autonomous University of Madrid, Director of the Maternal and Fetal Research Group, Fundación para la Investigación Biomédica, La Paz University Hospital, Madrid, Spain
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Awoyemi T, Jiang S, Rahbar M, Logentherian P, Collett G, Zhang W, Cribbs A, Cerdeira S, Vatish M. MicroRNA analysis of medium/large placenta extracellular vesicles in normal and preeclampsia pregnancies. Front Cardiovasc Med 2024; 11:1371168. [PMID: 38628314 PMCID: PMC11018924 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2024.1371168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Preeclampsia (PE) is a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy, affecting 2%-8% of pregnancies worldwide, and is the leading cause of adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. The disease is characterized by oxidative and cellular stress and widespread endothelial dysfunction. While the precise mechanisms are not entirely understood, the pathogenesis of PE is closely linked to placental dysfunction and, to some extent, syncytiotrophoblast extracellular vesicle release (STB-EVs). These vesicles can be divided into the less well-studied medium/large EVs (220-1,000 nm) released in response to stress and small EVs (<220 nm) released as a component of intercellular communication. The previously described production of m/lSTB-EVs in response to cellular stress combined with the overwhelming occurrence of cellular and oxidative stress in PE prompted us to evaluate the microRNAome of PE m/lSTB-EVs. We hypothesized that the microRNAome profile of m/lSTB-EVs is different in PE compared to normal pregnancy (NP), which might permit the identification of potential circulating biomarkers not previously described in PE. Methods/study design We performed small RNA sequencing on medium/large STB-EVs isolated from PE and NP placentae using dual-lobe ex vivo perfusion. The sequencing data was bioinformatically analyzed to identify differentially regulated microRNAs. Identified microRNAs were validated with quantitative PCR analysis. We completed our analysis by performing an in-silico prediction of STB-EV mechanistic pathways. Results We identified significant differences between PE and NP in the STB-EVs micro ribonucleic acid (microRNA) profiles. We verified the differential expression of hsa-miR-193b-5p, hsa-miR-324-5p, hsa-miR-652-3p, hsa-miR-3196, hsa-miR-9-5p, hsa-miR-421, and hsa-miR-210-3p in the medium/large STB-EVs. We also confirmed the differential abundance of hsa-miR-9-5p in maternal serum extracellular vesicles (S EVs). In addition, we integrated the results of these microRNAs into the previously published messenger RNA (mRNA) data to better understand the relationship between these biomolecules. Conclusions We identified a differentially regulated micro-RNA, hsa-miR-9-5p, that may have biomarker potential and uncovered mechanistic pathways that may be important in the pathophysiology of PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toluwalase Awoyemi
- Nuffield Department of Women’s & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Shuhan Jiang
- Nuffield Department of Women’s & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Maryam Rahbar
- Nuffield Department of Women’s & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Prasanna Logentherian
- Nuffield Department of Women’s & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Gavin Collett
- Nuffield Department of Women’s & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Wei Zhang
- Nuffield Department of Women’s & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Adam Cribbs
- Nuffield Department of Orthopaedics, Rheumatology and Musculoskeletal Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Sofia Cerdeira
- Nuffield Department of Women’s & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Manu Vatish
- Nuffield Department of Women’s & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom
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Nair S, Razo-Azamar M, Jayabalan N, Dalgaard LT, Palacios-González B, Sørensen A, Kampmann U, Handberg A, Carrion F, Salomon C. Advances in extracellular vesicles as mediators of cell-to-cell communication in pregnancy. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2024; 76:86-98. [PMID: 38233286 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2023.12.004] [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: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Cell-to-cell communication mediated by Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) is a novel and emerging area of research, especially during pregnancy, in which placenta derived EVs can facilitate the feto-maternal communication. EVs comprise a heterogeneous group of vesicle sub-populations with diverse physical and biochemical characteristics and originate by specific biogenesis mechanisms. EVs transfer molecular cargo (including proteins, nucleic acids, and lipids) between cells and are critical mediators of cell communication. There is growing interest among researchers to explore into the molecular cargo of EVs and their functions in a physiological and pathological context. For example, inflammatory mediators such as cytokines are shown to be released in EVs and EVs derived from immune cells play key roles in mediating the immune response as well as immunoregulatory pathways. Pregnancy complications such as gestational diabetes mellitus, preeclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction and preterm birth are associated with altered levels of circulating EVs, with differential EV cargo and bioactivity in target cells. This implicates the intriguing roles of EVs in reprogramming the maternal physiology during pregnancy. Moreover, the capacity of EVs to carry bioactive molecules makes them a promising tool for biomarker development and targeted therapies in pregnancy complications. This review summarizes the physiological and pathological roles played by EVs in pregnancy and pregnancy-related disorders and describes the potential of EVs to be translated into clinical applications in the diagnosis and treatment of pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumyalekshmi Nair
- Translational Extracellular Vesicles in Obstetrics and Gynae-Oncology Group, University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4029, Australia.
| | - Melissa Razo-Azamar
- Translational Extracellular Vesicles in Obstetrics and Gynae-Oncology Group, University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4029, Australia; Laboratorio de Envejecimiento Saludable del Instituto Nacional de Medicina Genómica (INMEGEN) en el Centro de Investigación sobre Envejecimiento (CIE-CINVESTAV Sede Sur), CDMX, 14330, Mexico
| | - Nanthini Jayabalan
- Translational Extracellular Vesicles in Obstetrics and Gynae-Oncology Group, University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4029, Australia
| | | | - Berenice Palacios-González
- Laboratorio de Envejecimiento Saludable del Instituto Nacional de Medicina Genómica (INMEGEN) en el Centro de Investigación sobre Envejecimiento (CIE-CINVESTAV Sede Sur), CDMX, 14330, Mexico
| | - Anne Sørensen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Ulla Kampmann
- Steno Diabetes Center Aarhus, Aarhus University Hospital, and Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Denmark
| | - Aase Handberg
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark; Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Flavio Carrion
- Departamento de Investigación, Postgrado y Educación Continua (DIPEC), Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Alba, Santiago, Chile
| | - Carlos Salomon
- Translational Extracellular Vesicles in Obstetrics and Gynae-Oncology Group, University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4029, Australia; Departamento de Investigación, Postgrado y Educación Continua (DIPEC), Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad del Alba, Santiago, Chile.
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Li X, Han Y, Meng Y, Yin L. Small RNA-big impact: exosomal miRNAs in mitochondrial dysfunction in various diseases. RNA Biol 2024; 21:1-20. [PMID: 38174992 PMCID: PMC10773649 DOI: 10.1080/15476286.2023.2293343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria are multitasking organelles involved in maintaining the cell homoeostasis. Beyond its well-established role in cellular bioenergetics, mitochondria also function as signal organelles to propagate various cellular outcomes. However, mitochondria have a self-destructive arsenal of factors driving the development of diseases caused by mitochondrial dysfunction. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), a heterogeneous group of membranous nano-sized vesicles, are present in a variety of bodily fluids. EVs serve as mediators for intercellular interaction. Exosomes are a class of small EVs (30-100 nm) released by most cells. Exosomes carry various cargo including microRNAs (miRNAs), a class of short noncoding RNAs. Recent studies have closely associated exosomal miRNAs with various human diseases, including diseases caused by mitochondrial dysfunction, which are a group of complex multifactorial diseases and have not been comprehensively described. In this review, we first briefly introduce the characteristics of EVs. Then, we focus on possible mechanisms regarding exosome-mitochondria interaction through integrating signalling networks. Moreover, we summarize recent advances in the knowledge of the role of exosomal miRNAs in various diseases, describing how mitochondria are changed in disease status. Finally, we propose future research directions to provide a novel therapeutic strategy that could slow the disease progress mediated by mitochondrial dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaqing Li
- Institute of Nephrology and Blood Purification, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jinan University Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Central laboratory, The Fifth Hospital Affiliated to Jinan University, Heyuan, China
| | - Yi Han
- Traditional Chinese Medicine Department, People’s Hospital of Yanjiang District, Ziyang, Sichuan, China
| | - Yu Meng
- Institute of Nephrology and Blood Purification, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jinan University Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
- Central laboratory, The Fifth Hospital Affiliated to Jinan University, Heyuan, China
| | - Lianghong Yin
- Institute of Nephrology and Blood Purification, The First Affiliated Hospital, Jinan University Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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Toudic C, Maurer M, St-Pierre G, Xiao Y, Bannert N, Lafond J, Rassart É, Sato S, Barbeau B. Galectin-1 Modulates the Fusogenic Activity of Placental Endogenous Retroviral Envelopes. Viruses 2023; 15:2441. [PMID: 38140682 PMCID: PMC10747188 DOI: 10.3390/v15122441] [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: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Syncytin-1 and -2 are glycoproteins encoded by human endogenous retrovirus (hERV) that, through their fusogenic properties, are needed for the formation of the placental syncytiotrophoblast. Previous studies suggested that these proteins, in addition to the EnvP(b) envelope protein, are also involved in other cell fusion events. Since galectin-1 is a β-galactoside-binding protein associated with cytotrophoblast fusion during placental development, we previously tested its effect on Syncytin-mediated cell fusion and showed that this protein differently modulates the fusogenic potential of Syncytin-1 and -2. Herein, we were interested in comparing the impact of galectin-1 on hERV envelope proteins in different cellular contexts. Using a syncytium assay, we first demonstrated that galectin-1 increased the fusion of Syncytin-2- and EnvP(b)-expressing cells. We then tested the infectivity of Syncytin-1 and -2 vs. VSV-G-pseudotyped viruses toward Cos-7 and various human cell lines. In the presence of galectin-1, infection of Syncytin-2-pseudotyped viruses augmented for all cell lines. In contrast, the impact of galectin-1 on the infectivity of Syncytin-1-pseudotyped viruses varied, being cell- and dose-dependent. In this study, we report the functional associations between three hERV envelope proteins and galectin-1, which should provide information on the fusogenic activity of these proteins in the placenta and other biological and pathological processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Toudic
- Département des Sciences Biologiques and Centre d’excellence en Recherche sur les Maladies Orphelines-Fondation Courtois, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, QC H3C 3P8, Canada; (C.T.); (Y.X.); (J.L.); (É.R.)
| | - Maike Maurer
- Robert-Koch Institute, 13353 Berlin, Germany; (M.M.); (N.B.)
| | - Guillaume St-Pierre
- Glycobiology and Bioimaging Laboratory, Research Centre for Infectious Diseases and Axe Maladies Infectieuses et Immunitaires, Laval University, Quebec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; (G.S.-P.); (S.S.)
| | - Yong Xiao
- Département des Sciences Biologiques and Centre d’excellence en Recherche sur les Maladies Orphelines-Fondation Courtois, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, QC H3C 3P8, Canada; (C.T.); (Y.X.); (J.L.); (É.R.)
| | - Norbert Bannert
- Robert-Koch Institute, 13353 Berlin, Germany; (M.M.); (N.B.)
| | - Julie Lafond
- Département des Sciences Biologiques and Centre d’excellence en Recherche sur les Maladies Orphelines-Fondation Courtois, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, QC H3C 3P8, Canada; (C.T.); (Y.X.); (J.L.); (É.R.)
| | - Éric Rassart
- Département des Sciences Biologiques and Centre d’excellence en Recherche sur les Maladies Orphelines-Fondation Courtois, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, QC H3C 3P8, Canada; (C.T.); (Y.X.); (J.L.); (É.R.)
| | - Sachiko Sato
- Glycobiology and Bioimaging Laboratory, Research Centre for Infectious Diseases and Axe Maladies Infectieuses et Immunitaires, Laval University, Quebec City, QC G1V 0A6, Canada; (G.S.-P.); (S.S.)
| | - Benoit Barbeau
- Département des Sciences Biologiques and Centre d’excellence en Recherche sur les Maladies Orphelines-Fondation Courtois, Université du Québec à Montréal, Montréal, QC H3C 3P8, Canada; (C.T.); (Y.X.); (J.L.); (É.R.)
- Regroupement Intersectoriel de Recherche en Santé de l’Université du Québec, Montréal, QC H2X 1E3, Canada
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6
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Lekva T, Sundaram AYF, Roland MCP, Åsheim J, Michelsen AE, Norwitz ER, Aukrust P, Gilfillan GD, Ueland T. Platelet and mitochondrial RNA is decreased in plasma-derived extracellular vesicles in women with preeclampsia-an exploratory study. BMC Med 2023; 21:458. [PMID: 37996819 PMCID: PMC10666366 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-023-03178-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Circulating extracellular vesicles (EVs) are increased in preeclampsia (PE) and are associated with severity and progression. We examined in this exploratory cohort study if the mRNAs and long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in plasma-derived EVs were dysregulated in PE compared to normal pregnancy and display different temporal patterns during gestation. METHODS We isolated EVs from plasma at weeks 22-24 and 36-38 in women with and without PE (n=7 in each group) and performed RNA-seq, focusing on mRNAs and lncRNAs. We validated highly expressed mitochondrial and platelet-derived RNAs discovered from central pathways in 60 women with/without PE. We examined further one of the regulated RNAs, noncoding mitochondrially encoded tRNA alanine (MT-TA), in leukocytes and plasma to investigate its biomarker potential and association with clinical markers of PE. RESULTS We found abundant levels of platelet-derived and mitochondrial RNAs in EVs. Expression of these RNAs were decreased and lncRNAs increased in EVs from PE compared to without PE. These findings were further validated by qPCR for mitochondrial RNAs MT-TA, MT-ND2, MT-CYB and platelet-derived RNAs PPBP, PF4, CLU in EVs. Decreased expression of mitochondrial tRNA MT-TA in leukocytes at 22-24 weeks was strongly associated with the subsequent development of PE. CONCLUSIONS Platelet-derived and mitochondrial RNA were highly expressed in plasma EVs and were decreased in EVs isolated from women with PE compared to without PE. LncRNAs were mostly increased in PE. The MT-TA in leukocytes may be a useful biomarker for prediction and/or early detection of PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tove Lekva
- Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Arvind Y Fm Sundaram
- Department Medical Genetics, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - June Åsheim
- Department Medical Genetics, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Annika E Michelsen
- Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | | | - Pål Aukrust
- Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Section of Clinical Immunology and Infectious Diseases, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Gregor D Gilfillan
- Department Medical Genetics, Oslo University Hospital and University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Thor Ueland
- Research Institute of Internal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- K. G. Jebsen Thrombosis Research and Expertise Center, University of Tromsø, Tromsø, Norway
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7
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Erlandsson L, Ohlsson L, Masoumi Z, Rehnström M, Cronqvist T, Edvinsson L, Hansson SR. Preliminary evidence that blocking the uptake of placenta-derived preeclamptic extracellular vesicles protects the vascular endothelium and prevents vasoconstriction. Sci Rep 2023; 13:18425. [PMID: 37891193 PMCID: PMC10611745 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-45830-9] [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: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy syndrome characterized by hypertension and organ damage manifesting after 20 gestational weeks. The etiology is of multifactorial origin, where placental stress causes increased levels of placenta-derived extracellular vesicles (STBEVs) in the maternal circulation, shown to cause inflammation, endothelial activation, vasoconstriction, and anti-angiogenic activity. General endothelial dysfunction is believed to be initiated by endothelial insult during pregnancy that alters vascular function resulting in increased arterial stiffness, cardiac dysfunction, and increased risk of cardiovascular disease later in life. We compared the effect of normal and PE derived STBEVs in vitro on vascular contractility of human subcutaneous arteries using wire myography. Cellular structures of exposed vessels were investigated by transmission electron microscopy. We explored strategies to pharmacologically block the effects of the STBEVs on human vessels. The PE STBEVs caused significantly stronger angiotensin II-mediated contractions and extended structural damage to human subcutaneous arteries compared to normal STBEVs. These negative effects could be reduced by blocking vesicle uptake by endothelial cells, using chlorpromazine or specific antibodies towards the LOX-1 receptor. The therapeutic potential of blocking vesicle uptake should be further explored, to reduce the permanent damage caused on the vasculature during PE pregnancy to prevent future cardiovascular risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Erlandsson
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, BMC C14, Klinikgatan 28, 221 85, Lund, Sweden.
| | - Lena Ohlsson
- Experimental Vascular Research, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Zahra Masoumi
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, BMC C14, Klinikgatan 28, 221 85, Lund, Sweden
| | - Mimmi Rehnström
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, BMC C14, Klinikgatan 28, 221 85, Lund, Sweden
| | - Tina Cronqvist
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, BMC C14, Klinikgatan 28, 221 85, Lund, Sweden
| | - Lars Edvinsson
- Experimental Vascular Research, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
- Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
| | - Stefan R Hansson
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, BMC C14, Klinikgatan 28, 221 85, Lund, Sweden
- Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden
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8
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Villalobos-Labra R, Liu R, Spaans F, Sáez T, Semeria Maitret T, Quon A, Sawamura T, Cooke CLM, Davidge ST. Placenta-Derived Extracellular Vesicles From Preeclamptic Pregnancies Impair Vascular Endothelial Function via Lectin-Like Oxidized LDL Receptor-1. Hypertension 2023; 80:2226-2238. [PMID: 37615097 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.123.21205] [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: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preeclampsia is a complex syndrome that includes maternal vascular dysfunction. Syncytiotrophoblast-derived extracellular vesicles from preeclampsia placentas (preeclampsia-STBEVs) were shown to induce endothelial dysfunction, but an endothelial transmembrane mediator is still unexplored. The LOX-1 (lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1) is a transmembrane scavenger receptor that can cause endothelial dysfunction, and its expression is increased in the endothelium of preeclampsia women. In this study, we hypothesized that LOX-1 mediates the effects of preeclampsia-STBEVs on endothelial function. METHODS Preeclampsia-STBEVs were collected by perfusion of placentas from women with preeclampsia and in vitro and ex vivo endothelial cell function were assessed. RESULTS In human umbilical vein endothelial cells, inhibition of LOX-1 with LOX-1 blocking antibody (TS20) reduced the uptake of preeclampsia-STBEVs (61.3±8.8%). TS20 prevented the activation of ERK (extracellular signal-regulated kinase, a kinase downstream of LOX-1) and reduced the activation of NF-κB (nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells; 21.1±8.0%) and nitrative stress (23.2±10.3%) that was induced by preeclampsia-STBEVs. Vascular function was assessed by wire myography in isolated mesenteric arteries from pregnant rats that were incubated overnight with preeclampsia-STBEVs±TS20. TS20 prevented endothelium-dependent vasodilation impairment induced by preeclampsia-STBEVs. Nitric oxide contribution to the relaxation was reduced by preeclampsia-STBEVs, which was prevented by TS20. Superoxide dismutase or apocynin, an inhibitor of NOX (nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase), restored the impaired endothelium-dependent vasodilation in arteries exposed to preeclampsia-STBEVs. CONCLUSIONS Taken together, our findings demonstrate that LOX-1 mediates the endothelial dysfunction induced by preeclampsia-STBEVs. Our study further expands on the mechanisms that may lead to adverse outcomes in preeclampsia and proposes LOX-1 as a potential target for future interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Villalobos-Labra
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (R.V.-L., R.L., F.S., T. Sáez, A.Q., C.-L.M.C., S.T.D.), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
- Women and Children's Health Research Institute (R.V.-L., R.L., F.S., T. Sáez, A.Q., C.-L.M.C., S.T.D.), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
- Escuela de Medicina sede San Felipe (R.V.-L.), Universidad de Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Ricky Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (R.V.-L., R.L., F.S., T. Sáez, A.Q., C.-L.M.C., S.T.D.), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
- Women and Children's Health Research Institute (R.V.-L., R.L., F.S., T. Sáez, A.Q., C.-L.M.C., S.T.D.), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
- Department of Physiology (R.L., S.T.D.), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Floor Spaans
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (R.V.-L., R.L., F.S., T. Sáez, A.Q., C.-L.M.C., S.T.D.), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
- Women and Children's Health Research Institute (R.V.-L., R.L., F.S., T. Sáez, A.Q., C.-L.M.C., S.T.D.), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Tamara Sáez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (R.V.-L., R.L., F.S., T. Sáez, A.Q., C.-L.M.C., S.T.D.), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
- Women and Children's Health Research Institute (R.V.-L., R.L., F.S., T. Sáez, A.Q., C.-L.M.C., S.T.D.), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
- Departamento de Medicina Interna (T. Sáez), Universidad de Valparaíso, Chile
- Centro de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Escuela de Medicina, Facultad de Medicina (T. Sáez), Universidad de Valparaíso, Chile
| | - Tamara Semeria Maitret
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology (T.S.M.), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Anita Quon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (R.V.-L., R.L., F.S., T. Sáez, A.Q., C.-L.M.C., S.T.D.), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
- Women and Children's Health Research Institute (R.V.-L., R.L., F.S., T. Sáez, A.Q., C.-L.M.C., S.T.D.), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Tatsuya Sawamura
- Departments of Molecular Pathophysiology and Life Innovation, Shinshu University, Matsumoto, Japan (T. Sawamura)
| | - Christy-Lynn M Cooke
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (R.V.-L., R.L., F.S., T. Sáez, A.Q., C.-L.M.C., S.T.D.), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
- Women and Children's Health Research Institute (R.V.-L., R.L., F.S., T. Sáez, A.Q., C.-L.M.C., S.T.D.), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Sandra T Davidge
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (R.V.-L., R.L., F.S., T. Sáez, A.Q., C.-L.M.C., S.T.D.), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
- Women and Children's Health Research Institute (R.V.-L., R.L., F.S., T. Sáez, A.Q., C.-L.M.C., S.T.D.), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
- Department of Physiology (R.L., S.T.D.), University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
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9
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Hiremath SC, Weaver JD. Engineering of Trophoblast Extracellular Vesicle-Delivering Hydrogels for Localized Tolerance Induction in Cell Transplantation. Cell Mol Bioeng 2023; 16:341-354. [PMID: 37811006 PMCID: PMC10550893 DOI: 10.1007/s12195-023-00778-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose The need for chronic systemic immunosuppression, which presents a host of acute risks to transplantation patients, remains the primary limitation for the translation of many cell therapies, such as insulin secreting cells for the treatment of type 1 diabetes. Trophoblasts are the professional tolerogenic cells of the placenta, and they secrete a range of soluble factors to induce antigen specific tolerance toward allogeneic fetal tissue during pregnancy, including extracellular vesicles. Here we develop a trophoblast extracellular vesicle-delivering hydrogel designed for sustained, localized tolerogenic factor delivery within a transplant site to induce localized tolerance toward cell grafts. Methods We engineer a synthetic poly(ethylene glycol)-based hydrogel system to tether extracellular vesicles for sustained delivery, and compare this system to passive vesicle entrapment within an alginate hydrogel system. We characterize trophoblast extracellular vesicles for size and morphology, and evaluate vesicle tolerogenic protein content via proteomic analysis. We validate the retention and tethering of extracellular vesicles within the hydrogel systems via scanning electron and stimulated emission depletion microscopy, and measure vesicle release rate over time. Finally, we evaluate trophoblast extracellular vesicle influence on natural killer cell activation in vitro. Results We isolated trophoblast extracellular vesicles and proteomics confirmed the presence of tolerogenic factors. We confirmed the presence of extracellular vesicles within hydrogel delivery vehicles, and synthetic hydrogels extended extracellular vesicle release relative to a passive hydrogel system. Finally, extracellular vesicles reduced natural killer cell activation in vitro, confirming the tolerogenic potential of hydrogel-delivered extracellular vesicles. Conclusions This tolerogenic extracellular vesicle-delivering hydrogel platform designed for delivery within a transplant site could serve as an alternative to systemic immunosuppression in cell transplantation, potentially reducing the risks associated with cell therapies and widening the eligible patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivani C. Hiremath
- School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering, Arizona State University, 550 E. Orange St, Tempe, AZ 85281 USA
| | - Jessica D. Weaver
- School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering, Arizona State University, 550 E. Orange St, Tempe, AZ 85281 USA
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10
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Nguyen CM, Sallam M, Islam MS, Clack K, Soda N, Nguyen NT, Shiddiky MJA. Placental Exosomes as Biomarkers for Maternal Diseases: Current Advances in Isolation, Characterization, and Detection. ACS Sens 2023. [PMID: 37449399 DOI: 10.1021/acssensors.3c00689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/18/2023]
Abstract
Serving as the interface between fetal and maternal circulation, the placenta plays a critical role in fetal growth and development. Placental exosomes are small membrane-bound extracellular vesicles released by the placenta during pregnancy. They contain a variety of biomolecules, including lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids, which can potentially be biomarkers of maternal diseases. An increasing number of studies have demonstrated the utility of placental exosomes for the diagnosis and monitoring of pathological conditions such as pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes. This suggests that placental exosomes may serve as new biomarkers in liquid biopsy analysis. This review provides an overview of the current understanding of the biological function of placental exosomes and their potential as biomarkers of maternal diseases. Additionally, this review highlights current barriers and the way forward for standardization and validation of known techniques for exosome isolation, characterization, and detection. Finally, microfluidic devices for exosome research are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Minh Nguyen
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre (QMNC), Griffith University, Nathan Campus, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia
- School of Environment and Science (ESC), Griffith University, Nathan Campus, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Mohamed Sallam
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre (QMNC), Griffith University, Nathan Campus, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia
- School of Environment and Science (ESC), Griffith University, Nathan Campus, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Md Sajedul Islam
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Griffith University, Gold Coast Campus, Southport, QLD 4222, Australia
| | - Kimberley Clack
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre (QMNC), Griffith University, Nathan Campus, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia
- School of Environment and Science (ESC), Griffith University, Nathan Campus, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Narshone Soda
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre (QMNC), Griffith University, Nathan Campus, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Nam-Trung Nguyen
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre (QMNC), Griffith University, Nathan Campus, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Muhammad J A Shiddiky
- Queensland Micro- and Nanotechnology Centre (QMNC), Griffith University, Nathan Campus, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia
- School of Environment and Science (ESC), Griffith University, Nathan Campus, Nathan, QLD 4111, Australia
- Rural Health Research Institute, Charles Sturt University, Orange, NSW 2800, Australia
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11
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Dave KM, Stolz DB, Manickam DS. Delivery of mitochondria-containing extracellular vesicles to the BBB for ischemic stroke therapy. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2023; 20:1769-1788. [PMID: 37921194 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2023.2279115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Ischemic stroke-induced mitochondrial dysfunction in brain endothelial cells (BECs) leads to breakdown of the blood-brain barrier (BBB) causing long-term neurological dysfunction. Restoration of mitochondrial function in injured BECs is a promising therapeutic strategy to alleviate stroke-induced damage. Mounting evidence demonstrate that selected subsets of cell-derived extracellular vehicles (EVs), such as exosomes (EXOs) and microvesicles (MVs), contain functional mitochondrial components. Therefore, development of BEC-derived mitochondria-containing EVs for delivery to the BBB will (1) alleviate mitochondrial dysfunction and limit long-term neurological dysfunction in ischemic stroke and (2) provide an alternative therapeutic option for treating numerous other diseases associated with mitochondrial dysfunction. AREA COVERED This review will discuss (1) how EV subsets package different types of mitochondrial components during their biogenesis, (2) mechanisms of EV internalization and functional mitochondrial responses in the recipient cells, and (3) EV biodistribution and pharmacokinetics - key factors involved in the development of mitochondria-containing EVs as a novel BBB-targeted stroke therapy. EXPERT OPINION Mitochondria-containing MVs have demonstrated therapeutic benefits in ischemic stroke and other pathologies associated with mitochondrial dysfunction. Delivery of MV mitochondria to the BBB is expected to protect the BBB integrity and neurovascular unit post-stroke. MV mitochondria quality control, characterization, mechanistic understanding of its effects in vivo, safety and efficacy in different preclinical models, large-scale production, and establishment of regulatory guidelines are foreseeable milestones to harness the clinical potential of MV mitochondria delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kandarp M Dave
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Donna B Stolz
- Center for Biologic Imaging, University of Pittsburgh Medical School, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Devika S Manickam
- Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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12
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Sha M, Zhang S, Beejadhursing R, Sun Y, Qin Y, Chen S, Li W. Extracellular vesicles derived from hypoxic HTR-8/SVneo trophoblast inhibit endothelial cell functions through the miR-150-3p /CHPF pathway. Placenta 2023; 138:21-32. [PMID: 37156185 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2023.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Endothelial dysfunction is one of the basic pathological changes in pre-eclampsia. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) can transport miRNAs expressed by placental trophoblast cells into endothelial cells. The aim of this study was to explore the differential effects of EVs induced by hypoxic trophoblasts (1%HTR-8-EV) and those derived from normoxic trophoblasts (20%HTR-8-EV) on the regulation of endothelial cell functions. METHODS Normoxia and hypoxia were preconditioned to induce trophoblast cells-derived EVs. The effect of EVs, miRNA, target gene, and their interactions on endothelial cell proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis were determined. Quantitative analysis of miR-150-3p and CHPF were verified by qRT-PCR and western blotting. The binding relationship among EVs pathway was demonstrated by luciferase reporter assay. RESULTS Compared with 20%HTR-8-EV, 1%HTR-8-EV had a suppressive effect on proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis of endothelial cells. The results of miRNA sequencing showed the vital role of miR-150-3p in trophoblast-to-endothelium communication. 1%HTR-8-EV carrying miR-150-3p could move into endothelial cells and target chondroitin polymerizing factor (CHPF) gene. MiR-150-3p inhibited endothelial cell functions by regulating CHPF. In patient-derived placental vascular tissues, there was a similar negative correlating between miR-150-3p and CHPF. DISCUSSION Our findings indicate that extracellular vesicles miR-150-3p derived from hypoxic trophoblasts inhibits endothelial cells proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis by modulating CHPF, illuminating a novel mechanism of hypoxic trophoblasts regulation of endothelial cells and their potential role in PE pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Menghan Sha
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
| | - Shunran Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Rajluxmee Beejadhursing
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yanan Sun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yu Qin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Suhua Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
| | - Wei Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital of Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
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13
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Kang M, Blenkiron C, Chamley L. The biodistribution of placental and fetal extracellular vesicles during pregnancy following placentation. Clin Sci (Lond) 2023; 137:385-399. [PMID: 36920079 PMCID: PMC10017278 DOI: 10.1042/cs20220301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
Human pregnancy is a highly orchestrated process requiring extensive cross-talk between the mother and the fetus. Extracellular vesicles released by the fetal tissue, particularly the placenta, are recognized as important mediators of this process. More recently, the importance of placental extracellular vesicle biodistribution studies in animal models has received increasing attention as identifying the organs to which extracellular vesicles are targeted to helps us understand more about this communication system. Placental extracellular vesicles are categorized based on their size into macro-, large-, and small-extracellular vesicles, and their biodistribution is dependent on the extracellular vesicle's particle size, the direction of blood flow, the recirculation of blood, as well as the retention capacity in organs. Macro-extracellular vesicles are exclusively localized to the lungs, while large- and small-extracellular vesicles show high levels of distribution to the lungs and liver, while there is inconsistency in the reporting of distribution to the spleen and kidneys. This inconsistency may be due to the differences in the methodologies employed between studies and their limitations. Future studies should incorporate analysis of placental extracellular vesicle biodistribution at the macroscopic level on whole animals and organs/tissues, as well as the microscopic cellular level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Kang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, 1023, Auckland, New Zealand
- Correspondence: Matt Kang ()
| | - Cherie Blenkiron
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, 1023, Auckland, New Zealand
- Hub for Extracellular Vesicle Investigations (HEVI), University of Auckland, 1023, Auckland, New Zealand
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Center (ACSRC), University of Auckland, 1023, Auckland, New Zealand
- Molecular Medicine and Pathology, University of Auckland, 1023, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Lawrence W. Chamley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, 1023, Auckland, New Zealand
- Hub for Extracellular Vesicle Investigations (HEVI), University of Auckland, 1023, Auckland, New Zealand
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14
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Koltsova EM, Martyanov AA, Podoplelova NA. Procoagulant Properties of Extracellular Vesicles in Normal and Pathological Pregnancy. BIOCHEMISTRY (MOSCOW), SUPPLEMENT SERIES A: MEMBRANE AND CELL BIOLOGY 2023. [DOI: 10.1134/s1990747822060071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/30/2023]
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15
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Abstract
Pre-eclampsia is a life-threatening disease of pregnancy unique to humans and a leading cause of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Women who survive pre-eclampsia have reduced life expectancy, with increased risks of stroke, cardiovascular disease and diabetes, while babies from a pre-eclamptic pregnancy have increased risks of preterm birth, perinatal death and neurodevelopmental disability and cardiovascular and metabolic disease later in life. Pre-eclampsia is a complex multisystem disease, diagnosed by sudden-onset hypertension (>20 weeks of gestation) and at least one other associated complication, including proteinuria, maternal organ dysfunction or uteroplacental dysfunction. Pre-eclampsia is found only when a placenta is or was recently present and is classified as preterm (delivery <37 weeks of gestation), term (delivery ≥37 weeks of gestation) and postpartum pre-eclampsia. The maternal syndrome of pre-eclampsia is driven by a dysfunctional placenta, which releases factors into maternal blood causing systemic inflammation and widespread maternal endothelial dysfunction. Available treatments target maternal hypertension and seizures, but the only 'cure' for pre-eclampsia is delivery of the dysfunctional placenta and baby, often prematurely. Despite decades of research, the aetiology of pre-eclampsia, particularly of term and postpartum pre-eclampsia, remains poorly defined. Significant advances have been made in the prediction and prevention of preterm pre-eclampsia, which is predicted in early pregnancy through combined screening and is prevented with daily low-dose aspirin, starting before 16 weeks of gestation. By contrast, the prediction of term and postpartum pre-eclampsia is limited and there are no preventive treatments. Future research must investigate the pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia, in particular of term and postpartum pre-eclampsia, and evaluate new prognostic tests and treatments in adequately powered clinical trials.
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16
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Sokolov D, Gorshkova A, Markova K, Milyutina Y, Pyatygina K, Zementova M, Korenevsky A, Mikhailova V, Selkov S. Natural Killer Cell Derived Microvesicles Affect the Function of Trophoblast Cells. MEMBRANES 2023; 13:213. [PMID: 36837716 PMCID: PMC9963951 DOI: 10.3390/membranes13020213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The interaction of natural killer (NK) and trophoblast cells underlies the formation of immune tolerance in the mother-fetus system and the maintenance of the physiological course of pregnancy. In addition, NK cells affect the function of trophoblast cells, interacting with them via the receptor apparatus and through the production of cytokines. Microvesicles (MVs) derived from NK cells are able to change the function of target cells. However, in the overall pattern of interactions between NK cells and trophoblasts, the possibility that both can transmit signals to each other via MVs has not been taken into account. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the effect of NK cell-derived MVs on the phenotype, proliferation, and migration of trophoblast cells and their expression of intracellular messengers. We carried out assays for the detection of content transferred from MV to trophoblasts. We found that NK cell-derived MVs did not affect the expression of CD54, CD105, CD126, CD130, CD181, CD119, and CD120a receptors in trophoblast cells or lead to the appearance of CD45 and CD56 receptors in the trophoblast membrane. Further, the MVs reduced the proliferation but increased the migration of trophoblasts with no changes to their viability. Incubation of trophoblast cells in the presence of MVs resulted in the activation of STAT3 via pSTAT3(Ser727) but not via pSTAT3(Tyr705). The treatment of trophoblasts with MVs did not result in the phosphorylation of STAT1 and ERK1/2. The obtained data indicate that NK cell-derived MVs influence the function of trophoblast cells, which is accompanied by the activation of STAT3 signaling.
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17
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Ghorbanpour SM, Richards C, Pienaar D, Sesperez K, Aboulkheyr Es H, Nikolic VN, Karadzov Orlic N, Mikovic Z, Stefanovic M, Cakic Z, Alqudah A, Cole L, Gorrie C, McGrath K, Kavurma MM, Ebrahimi Warkiani M, McClements L. A placenta-on-a-chip model to determine the regulation of FKBPL and galectin-3 in preeclampsia. Cell Mol Life Sci 2023; 80:44. [PMID: 36652019 PMCID: PMC9849194 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04648-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-specific cardiovascular disorder, involving significant maternal endothelial dysfunction. Although inappropriate placentation due to aberrant angiogenesis, inflammation and shallow trophoblast invasion are the root causes of preeclampsia, pathogenic mechanisms are poorly understood, particularly in early pregnancy. Here, we first confirm the abnormal expression of important vascular and inflammatory proteins, FK506-binding protein-like (FKBPL) and galectin-3 (Gal-3), in human plasma and placental tissues from women with preeclampsia and normotensive controls. We then employ a three-dimensional microfluidic placental model incorporating human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and a first trimester trophoblast cell line (ACH-3P) to investigate FKBPL and Gal-3 signaling in inflammatory conditions. In human samples, both circulating (n = 17 controls; n = 30 preeclampsia) and placental (n ≥ 6) FKBPL and Gal-3 levels were increased in preeclampsia compared to controls (plasma: FKBPL, p < 0.0001; Gal-3, p < 0.01; placenta: FKBPL, p < 0.05; Gal-3, p < 0.01), indicative of vascular dysfunction in preeclampsia. In our placenta-on-a-chip model, we show that endothelial cells are critical for trophoblast-mediated migration and that trophoblasts effectively remodel endothelial vascular networks. Inflammatory cytokine tumour necrosis factor-α (10 ng/mL) modulates both FKBPL and Gal-3 signaling in conjunction with trophoblast migration and impairs vascular network formation (p < 0.005). Our placenta-on-a-chip recapitulates aspects of inappropriate placental development and vascular dysfunction in preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahar Masoumeh Ghorbanpour
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Institute for Biomedical Materials and Devices, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Heart Research Institute, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Claire Richards
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- Institute for Biomedical Materials and Devices, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Dillan Pienaar
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Kimberly Sesperez
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Hamidreza Aboulkheyr Es
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Valentina N Nikolic
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Nis, Niš, Serbia
| | - Natasa Karadzov Orlic
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Narodni Front, Belgrade, Serbia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Zeljko Mikovic
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Narodni Front, Belgrade, Serbia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Milan Stefanovic
- Department of Internal Medicine-Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Nis, Niš, Serbia
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Clinical Centre Nis, Niš, Serbia
| | - Zoran Cakic
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, General Hospital of Leskovac, Leskovac, Serbia
| | - Abdelrahim Alqudah
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, The Hashemite University, Zarqa, Jordan
| | - Louise Cole
- Australian Institute of Microbiology and Infection, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Catherine Gorrie
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Kristine McGrath
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Mary M Kavurma
- Heart Research Institute,The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Majid Ebrahimi Warkiani
- Institute for Biomedical Materials and Devices, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Lana McClements
- School of Life Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
- Institute for Biomedical Materials and Devices, Faculty of Science, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia.
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18
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Preeclampsia and syncytiotrophoblast membrane extracellular vesicles (STB-EVs). Clin Sci (Lond) 2022; 136:1793-1807. [PMID: 36511102 DOI: 10.1042/cs20220149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2022] [Revised: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 10/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is a hypertensive complication of pregnancy that affects 2-8% of women worldwide and is one of the leading causes of maternal deaths and premature birth. PE can occur early in pregnancy (<34 weeks gestation) or late in pregnancy (>34 weeks gestation). Whilst the placenta is clearly implicated in early onset PE (EOPE), late onset PE (LOPE) is less clear with some believing the disease is entirely maternal whilst others believe that there is an interplay between maternal systems and the placenta. In both types of PE, the syncytiotrophoblast (STB), the layer of the placenta in direct contact with maternal blood, is stressed. In EOPE, the STB is oxidatively stressed in early pregnancy (leading to PE later in gestation- the two-stage model) whilst in LOPE the STB is stressed because of villous overcrowding and senescence later in pregnancy. It is this stress that perturbs maternal systems leading to the clinical manifestations of PE. Whilst some of the molecular species driving this stress have been identified, none completely explain the multisystem nature of PE. Syncytiotrophoblast membrane vesicles (STB-EVs) are a potential contributor to this multisystem disorder. STB-EVs are released into the maternal circulation in increasing amounts with advancing gestational age, and this release is further exacerbated with stress. There are good in vitro evidence that STB-EVs are taken up by macrophages and liver cells with additional evidence supporting endothelial cell uptake. STB-EV targeting remains in the early stages of discovery. In this review, we highlight the role of STB-EVs in PE. In relation to current research, we discuss different protocols for ex vivo isolation of STB-EVs, as well as specific issues involving tissue preparation, isolation (some of which may be unique to STB-EVs), and methods for their analysis. We suggest potential solutions for these challenges.
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19
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Placenta-derived extracellular vesicles from preeclamptic and healthy pregnancies impair ex vivo vascular endothelial function. Biosci Rep 2022; 42:232126. [PMID: 36408626 PMCID: PMC9760606 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20222185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy syndrome characterized by new-onset hypertension and end-organ dysfunction. The pathophysiology of PE remains undetermined, but it is thought that maternal vascular dysfunction plays a central role, potentially due, in part, to the release of syncytiotrophoblast-derived extracellular vesicles (STBEVs) into the maternal circulation by a dysfunctional placenta. STBEVs from normal pregnancies (NP) impair vascular function, but the effect of PE STBEVs (known to differ in composition with elevated circulating levels) on vascular function are not known. We hypothesized that PE STBEVs have more detrimental effects on vascular function compared with NP STBEVs. STBEVs were collected by perfusion of placentas from women with NP or PE. Mesenteric arteries from pregnant rats were incubated overnight with NP or PE STBEVs, and vascular function was assessed by wire myography. NP and PE STBEVs impaired endothelial function, partially by reducing nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability. Incubation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells with NP and PE STBEVs increased nuclear factor κ-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cell (NF-κB) activation, reactive oxygen species, nitrotyrosine levels, and reduced NO levels. However, PE STBEVs increased NF-κB activation and nitrotyrosine levels to a lesser extent than NP STBEVs. Taken together, no greater impact of PE STBEVs compared with NP STBEVs on endothelial function was found. However, the impaired vascular function by PE STBEVs and increased levels of STBEVs in PE suggest PE STBEVs may contribute to maternal vascular dysfunction in PE. Our study further expands on the potential mechanisms that lead to adverse outcomes in PE and provides potential targets for future interventions.
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Kondracka A, Jaszczuk I, Koczkodaj D, Kondracki B, Frąszczak K, Oniszczuk A, Rybak-Krzyszkowska M, Staniczek J, Filip A, Kwaśniewska A. Analysis of Circulating C19MC MicroRNA as an Early Marker of Hypertension and Preeclampsia in Pregnant Patients: A Systematic Review. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11237051. [PMID: 36498625 PMCID: PMC9739231 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11237051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2022] [Revised: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia and hypertension complicate several pregnancies. Identifying women at risk of developing these conditions is essential to establish potential treatment modalities. Biomarkers such as C19MC microRNA in pregnant patients wopuld assist in defining pregnancy surveillance and implementing interventions. This study sought to analyze circulating C19MC microRNA as an early marker of hypertension and preeclampsia in pregnant patients. A systematic review was undertaken using the following registers: disease registries, pregnancy registries, and pregnancy exposure registries, and the following databases: PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, Scopus, and EMBASE. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane technique. From the 45 publications retrieved from the registers and databases, only 21 were included in the review after the removal of duplicates, screening, and eligibility evaluation. All 210 publications had a low risk of bias and illuminated the potential use of circulating C19MC microRNA as an early marker of hypertension and preeclampsia in pregnant patients. Therefore, it was concluded that C19MC microRNA can be used as an early marker of gestational preeclampsia and hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrianna Kondracka
- Department of Obstetrics and Pathology of Pregnancy, Medical University of Lublin, 20-059 Lublin, Poland
| | - Ilona Jaszczuk
- Department of Cancer Genetics with Cytogenetic Laboratory, Medical University of Lublin, 20-059 Lublin, Poland
| | - Dorota Koczkodaj
- Department of Cancer Genetics with Cytogenetic Laboratory, Medical University of Lublin, 20-059 Lublin, Poland
| | - Bartosz Kondracki
- Department of Cardiology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-059 Lublin, Poland
- Correspondence:
| | - Karolina Frąszczak
- Department of Oncological Gynecology and Gynecology, Medical University of Lublin, 20-059 Lublin, Poland
| | - Anna Oniszczuk
- Department of Inorganic Chemistry, Medical University of Lublin, 20-059 Lublin, Poland
| | | | - Jakub Staniczek
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Gynecologic Oncology, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland
| | - Agata Filip
- Department of Cancer Genetics with Cytogenetic Laboratory, Medical University of Lublin, 20-059 Lublin, Poland
| | - Anna Kwaśniewska
- Department of Obstetrics and Pathology of Pregnancy, Medical University of Lublin, 20-059 Lublin, Poland
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21
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First trimester placental extracellular vesicles likely contribute to the vasodilation of maternal resistance arteries in normal pregnancy. Placenta 2022; 129:84-86. [PMID: 36270043 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2022.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
During the first trimester of pregnancy, there is a large decrease in systemic vascular resistance (SVR) which coincides temporally with increasing extrusion of extracellular vesicles (EVs) from the placenta. We hypothesized that placental EVs may be one of the mechanisms contributing to maternal vasodilation. Macro-, micro-, nano-EVs from human first trimester placenta, or control injections containing EVs derived from fresh culture media, were injected into pregnant mice at day 12.5. After 30 min or 24 h, second order resistance arteries assessed for their reactivity to various vasomodulators. Placental EVs induced an anti-constrictive, pro-vasodilatory effect in maternal resistance arteries compared to control injections after 24 h suggesting that placental EVs may contribute to the maternal vasodilation during pregnancy.
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22
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Feng Y, Chen Q, Lau SY, Tsai BW, Groom K, Barrett CJ, Chamley LW. The Blocking of Integrin-Mediated Interactions with Maternal Endothelial Cells Reversed the Endothelial Cell Dysfunction Induced by EVs, Derived from Preeclamptic Placentae. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:13115. [PMID: 36361901 PMCID: PMC9657319 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Placental extracellular vesicles (EVs) have increasingly been recognized as a major mediator of feto-maternal communication. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms of the uptake of placental EVs by recipient cells are still not well-understood. We previously reported that placental EVs target a limited number of organs in vivo. In the current study, we investigated the mechanisms underlying the uptake of placental EVs into target cells. Placental EVs were derived from explant cultures of normal or preeclamptic placentae. The mechanisms underlying the uptake of placental EVs were elucidated, using the phagocytosis or endocytosis inhibitor, trypsin-treatment or integrin-blocking peptides. The endothelial cell activation was studied using the monocyte adhesion assay after the preeclamptic EVs exposure, with and/or without treatment with the integrin blocking peptide, YIGSR. The cellular mechanism of the uptake of the placental EVs was time, concentration and energy-dependent and both the phagocytosis and endocytosis were involved in this process. Additionally, proteins on the surface of the placental EVs, including integrins, were involved in the EV uptake process. Furthermore, inhibiting the uptake of preeclamptic EVs with YIGSR, reduced the endothelial cell activation. The interaction between the placental EVs and the recipient cells is mediated by integrins, and the cellular uptake is mediated by a combination of both phagocytosis and endocytosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yourong Feng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
| | - Qi Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
| | - Sien Yee Lau
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
| | - Bridget W. Tsai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
| | - Katie Groom
- Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
| | - Carolyn J. Barrett
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
| | - Lawrence W. Chamley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
- Hub for Extracellular Vesicles Investigations (HEVI), University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
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23
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Edvinsson C, Hansson E, Nielsen N, Erlandsson L, Hansson SR. Biomarkers of oxidative stress and angiogenic imbalance in a cohort of Intensive Care patients with preeclampsia – discriminators for severe disease. Pregnancy Hypertens 2022; 30:88-94. [DOI: 10.1016/j.preghy.2022.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 07/29/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Murrieta-Coxca JM, Fuentes-Zacarias P, Ospina-Prieto S, Markert UR, Morales-Prieto DM. Synergies of Extracellular Vesicles and Microchimerism in Promoting Immunotolerance During Pregnancy. Front Immunol 2022; 13:837281. [PMID: 35844513 PMCID: PMC9285877 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2022.837281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The concept of biological identity has been traditionally a central issue in immunology. The assumption that entities foreign to a specific organism should be rejected by its immune system, while self-entities do not trigger an immune response is challenged by the expanded immunotolerance observed in pregnancy. To explain this "immunological paradox", as it was first called by Sir Peter Medawar, several mechanisms have been described in the last decades. Among them, the intentional transfer and retention of small amounts of cells between a mother and her child have gained back attention. These microchimeric cells contribute to expanding allotolerance in both organisms and enhancing genetic fitness, but they could also provoke aberrant alloimmune activation. Understanding the mechanisms used by microchimeric cells to exert their function in pregnancy has proven to be challenging as per definition they are extremely rare. Profiting from studies in the field of transplantation and cancer research, a synergistic effect of microchimerism and cellular communication based on the secretion of extracellular vesicles (EVs) has begun to be unveiled. EVs are already known to play a pivotal role in feto-maternal tolerance by transferring cargo from fetal to maternal immune cells to reshape their function. A further aspect of EVs is their function in antigen presentation either directly or on the surface of recipient cells. Here, we review the current understanding of microchimerism in the feto-maternal tolerance during human pregnancy and the potential role of EVs in mediating the allorecognition and tropism of microchimeric cells.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Udo R. Markert
- Placenta Lab, Department of Obstetrics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
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25
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Gauster M, Moser G, Wernitznig S, Kupper N, Huppertz B. Early human trophoblast development: from morphology to function. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:345. [PMID: 35661923 PMCID: PMC9167809 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04377-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Human pregnancy depends on the proper development of the embryo prior to implantation and the implantation of the embryo into the uterine wall. During the pre-implantation phase, formation of the morula is followed by internalization of blastomeres that differentiate into the pluripotent inner cell mass lineage, while the cells on the surface undergo polarization and differentiate into the trophectoderm of the blastocyst. The trophectoderm mediates apposition and adhesion of the blastocyst to the uterine epithelium. These processes lead to a stable contact between embryonic and maternal tissues, resulting in the formation of a new organ, the placenta. During implantation, the trophectoderm cells start to differentiate and form the basis for multiple specialized trophoblast subpopulations, all of which fulfilling specific key functions in placentation. They either differentiate into polar cells serving typical epithelial functions, or into apolar invasive cells that adapt the uterine wall to progressing pregnancy. The composition of these trophoblast subpopulations is crucial for human placenta development and alterations are suggested to result in placenta-associated pregnancy pathologies. This review article focuses on what is known about very early processes in human reproduction and emphasizes on morphological and functional aspects of early trophoblast differentiation and subpopulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Gauster
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Gerit Moser
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Stefan Wernitznig
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Nadja Kupper
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Berthold Huppertz
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6, 8010, Graz, Austria.
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26
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Barranco I, Salas-Huetos A, Berlanga A, Spinaci M, Yeste M, Ribas-Maynou J. Involvement of extracellular vesicle-encapsulated miRNAs in human reproductive disorders: a systematic review. Reprod Fertil Dev 2022; 34:751-775. [PMID: 35527383 DOI: 10.1071/rd21301] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent years, extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as essential players in cell-to-cell communication, particularly having an active regulating role in biological systems. Because reproductive-associated processes are not exempt of this communication, multiple studies have been devoted to this realm, focusing on gamete maturation, embryo implantation or fetal development. The aim of the present review was to comprehensively and systematically collect evidence about the function of the microRNA (miRNA) encapsulated in EVs isolated from different reproductive tissues or fluids in reproductive-related diseases. Following PRISMA guidelines, we conducted a systematic search of the literature published in MEDLINE-PubMed until the end of February 2021. After selection, 32 studies were included in the qualitative review comparing the miRNA expression profile in EVs between different pathological disorders. Most reports showed the potential of the miRNAs carried by EVs to be used as putative biomarkers of reproductive disorders, including pregnancy affections, disease progression and quality of preimplantation embryos. The most relevant miRNAs were found to be highly heterogeneous among studies, with some conflicting results. Further research is thus warranted to address whether cofounding factors, such as the methods to isolate EVs and miRNAs, the subset of EVs, the criteria of patient selection, the timing of sample retrieval, or any other factor, may explain the inconsistencies between studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Barranco
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Albert Salas-Huetos
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain; and Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona, Spain; and Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Angel Berlanga
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain; and Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Marcella Spinaci
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain; and Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Jordi Ribas-Maynou
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain; and Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
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27
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Žarković M, Hufsky F, Markert UR, Marz M. The Role of Non-Coding RNAs in the Human Placenta. Cells 2022; 11:cells11091588. [PMID: 35563893 PMCID: PMC9104507 DOI: 10.3390/cells11091588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 05/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) play a central and regulatory role in almost all cells, organs, and species, which has been broadly recognized since the human ENCODE project and several other genome projects. Nevertheless, a small fraction of ncRNAs have been identified, and in the placenta they have been investigated very marginally. To date, most examples of ncRNAs which have been identified to be specific for fetal tissues, including placenta, are members of the group of microRNAs (miRNAs). Due to their quantity, it can be expected that the fairly larger group of other ncRNAs exerts far stronger effects than miRNAs. The syncytiotrophoblast of fetal origin forms the interface between fetus and mother, and releases permanently extracellular vesicles (EVs) into the maternal circulation which contain fetal proteins and RNA, including ncRNA, for communication with neighboring and distant maternal cells. Disorders of ncRNA in placental tissue, especially in trophoblast cells, and in EVs seem to be involved in pregnancy disorders, potentially as a cause or consequence. This review summarizes the current knowledge on placental ncRNA, their transport in EVs, and their involvement and pregnancy pathologies, as well as their potential for novel diagnostic tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milena Žarković
- RNA Bioinformatics and High-Throughput Analysis, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Leutragraben 1, 07743 Jena, Germany; (M.Ž.); (F.H.)
- European Virus Bioinformatics Center, Leutragraben 1, 07743 Jena, Germany
- Placenta Lab, Department of Obstetrics, University Hospital Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747 Jena, Germany;
| | - Franziska Hufsky
- RNA Bioinformatics and High-Throughput Analysis, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Leutragraben 1, 07743 Jena, Germany; (M.Ž.); (F.H.)
- European Virus Bioinformatics Center, Leutragraben 1, 07743 Jena, Germany
| | - Udo R. Markert
- Placenta Lab, Department of Obstetrics, University Hospital Jena, Am Klinikum 1, 07747 Jena, Germany;
| | - Manja Marz
- RNA Bioinformatics and High-Throughput Analysis, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Leutragraben 1, 07743 Jena, Germany; (M.Ž.); (F.H.)
- European Virus Bioinformatics Center, Leutragraben 1, 07743 Jena, Germany
- FLI Leibniz Institute for Age Research, Beutenbergstraße 11, 07745 Jena, Germany
- Aging Research Center (ARC), 07745 Jena, Germany
- Correspondence:
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28
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Inagaki M, Tachikawa M. Transport Characteristics of Placenta-Derived Extracellular Vesicles and Their Relevance to Placenta-to-Maternal Tissue Communication. Chem Pharm Bull (Tokyo) 2022; 70:324-329. [DOI: 10.1248/cpb.c22-00072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mai Inagaki
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University
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29
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Guidoni PB, Pasternak JA, Hamonic G, MacPhee DJ, Harding JC. Effect of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus 2 on tight junction gene expression at the maternal-fetal interface. Theriogenology 2022; 184:162-170. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Quantitative proteomic analysis of serum-purified exosomes identifies putative pre-eclampsia-associated biomarkers. Clin Proteomics 2022; 19:5. [PMID: 35144530 PMCID: PMC8903615 DOI: 10.1186/s12014-022-09342-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The high incidence of pre-eclampsia, which affects 2-7% of all pregnancies, remains a major health concern. Detection of pre-eclampsia before the appearance of clinical symptoms is essential to allow early intervention, and would benefit from identification of plasma/serum biomarkers to help guide diagnosis and treatment. Liquid biopsy has emerged as a promising source of protein biomarkers that circumvents some of the inherent challenges of proteome-wide analysis of plasma/serum. In this respect, purified exosomes have the added benefit of being carriers of intercellular communication both in physiological and pathological conditions. METHODS We compared the protein complement of purified exosomes from three different collections of control and pre-eclamptic serum samples, obtained at the end of the second trimester of pregnancy and at delivery. We employed shotgun label-free proteomics to investigate differential protein expression, which was then validated by targeted proteomics. RESULTS We developed a purification method that yielded highly enriched exosome preparations. The presence of specific pregnancy protein markers suggested that a significant proportion of purified exosomes derived from tissues related to pregnancy. Quantitative proteomic analyses allowed us to identify 10, 114 and 98 differentially-regulated proteins in the three sample collections, with a high degree of concordance. Functional analysis suggested that these proteins participate in biological processes related to pre-eclampsia, including angiogenesis, inflammation and cell migration. The differential abundance of 66 proteins was validated by targeted proteomics. Finally, we studied the impact of the pre-eclampsia-associated exosomes in the proteome using an in vitro cellular model. CONCLUSIONS We have identified and validated differential exosomal proteins in liquid biopsy of pregnant women that open new possibilities for early detection of pre-eclampsia. Additionally, the functional impact of the proteome composition of purified pre-eclamptic exosomes in target cells provides new information to better understand changes in embryo-maternal interactions and, consequently, the pathogenesis of this disease.
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31
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Redman CW, Staff AC, Roberts JM. Syncytiotrophoblast stress in preeclampsia: the convergence point for multiple pathways. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2022; 226:S907-S927. [PMID: 33546842 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2020.09.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 57.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Preeclampsia evolves in 2 stages: a placental problem that generates signals to the mother to cause a range of responses that comprise the second stage (preeclampsia syndrome). The first stage of early-onset preeclampsia is poor placentation, which we here call malplacentation. The spiral arteries are incompletely remodeled, leading to later placental malperfusion, relatively early in the second half of pregnancy. The long duration of the first stage (several months) is unsurprisingly associated with fetal growth restriction. The first stage of late-onset preeclampsia, approximately 80% of total cases, is shorter (several weeks) and part of a process that is common to all pregnancies. Placental function declines as it outgrows uterine capacity, with increasing chorionic villous packing, compression of the intervillous space, and fetal hypoxia, and causes late-onset clinical presentations such as "unexplained" stillbirths, late-onset fetal growth restriction, or preeclampsia. The second stages of early- and late-onset preeclampsia share syncytiotrophoblast stress as the most relevant feature that causes the maternal syndrome. Syncytiotrophoblast stress signals in the maternal circulation are probably the most specific biomarkers for preeclampsia. In addition, soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (mainly produced by syncytiotrophoblast) is the best-known biomarker and is routinely used in clinical practice in many locations. How the stress signals change over time in normal pregnancies indicates that syncytiotrophoblast stress begins on average at 30 to 32 weeks' gestation and progresses to term. At term, syncytiotrophoblast shows increasing markers of stress, including apoptosis, pyroptosis, autophagy, syncytial knots, and necrosis. We label this phenotype the "twilight placenta" and argue that it accounts for the clinical problems of postmature pregnancies. Senescence as a stress response differs in multinuclear syncytiotrophoblast from that of mononuclear cells. Syncytiotrophoblast irreversibly acquires part of the senescence phenotype (cell cycle arrest) when it is formed by cell fusion. The 2 pathways converge on the common pathologic endpoint, syncytiotrophoblast stress, and contribute to preeclampsia subtypes. We highlight that the well-known heterogeneity of the preeclampsia syndrome arises from different pathways to this common endpoint, influenced by maternal genetics, epigenetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors with different fetal and maternal responses to the ensuing insults. This complexity mandates a reassessment of our approach to predicting and preventing preeclampsia, and we summarize research priorities to maximize what we can learn about these important issues.
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32
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Powell JS, Gandley RE, Lackner E, Dolinish A, Ouyang Y, Powers RW, Morelli AE, Hubel CA, Sadovsky Y. Small extracellular vesicles from plasma of women with preeclampsia increase myogenic tone and decrease endothelium-dependent relaxation of mouse mesenteric arteries. Pregnancy Hypertens 2022; 28:66-73. [DOI: 10.1016/j.preghy.2022.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Imbalances in circulating angiogenic factors in the pathophysiology of preeclampsia and related disorders. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2022; 226:S1019-S1034. [PMID: 33096092 PMCID: PMC8884164 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2020.10.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 09/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a devastating medical complication of pregnancy that can lead to significant maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. It is currently believed that there is abnormal placentation in as early as the first trimester in women destined to develop preeclampsia. Although the etiology of the abnormal placentation is being debated, numerous epidemiologic and experimental studies suggest that imbalances in circulating angiogenic factors released from the placenta are responsible for the maternal signs and symptoms of preeclampsia. In particular, circulating levels of soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1, an antiangiogenic factor, are markedly increased in women with preeclampsia, whereas free levels of its ligand, placental, growth factor are markedly diminished. Alterations in these angiogenic factors precede the onset of clinical signs of preeclampsia and correlate with disease severity. Recently, the availability of automated assays for the measurement of angiogenic biomarkers in the plasma, serum, and urine has helped investigators worldwide to demonstrate a key role for these factors in the clinical diagnosis and prediction of preeclampsia. Numerous studies have reported that circulating angiogenic biomarkers have a very high negative predictive value to rule out clinical disease among women with suspected preeclampsia. These blood-based biomarkers have provided a valuable tool to clinicians to accelerate the time to clinical diagnosis and minimize maternal adverse outcomes in women with preeclampsia. Angiogenic biomarkers have also been useful to elucidate the pathogenesis of related disorders of abnormal placentation such as intrauterine growth restriction, intrauterine fetal death, twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome, and fetal hydrops. In summary, the discovery and characterization of angiogenic proteins of placental origin have provided clinicians a noninvasive blood-based tool to monitor placental function and health and for early detection of disorders of placentation. Uncovering the mechanisms of altered angiogenic factors in preeclampsia and related disorders of placentation may provide insights into novel preventive and therapeutic options.
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34
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Brown PA. Differential and targeted vesiculation: pathologic cellular responses to elevated arterial pressure. Mol Cell Biochem 2022; 477:1023-1040. [PMID: 34989921 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-021-04351-7] [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: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles are small membrane-enclosed particles released during cell activation or injury. They have been investigated for several decades and found to be secreted in various diseases. Their pathogenic role is further supported by the presence of several important molecules among their cargo, including proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. Many studies have reported enhanced and targeted extracellular vesicle biogenesis in diseases that involve chronic or transient elevation of arterial pressure resulting in endothelial dysfunction, within either the general circulatory system or specific local vascular beds. In addition, several associated pathologic processes have been studied and reported. However, the role of elevated pressure as a common pathogenic trigger across vascular domains and disease chronicity has not been previously described. This review will therefore summarize our current knowledge of the differential and targeted biogenesis of extracellular vesicles in major diseases that are characterized by elevated arterial pressure leading to endothelial dysfunction and propose a unified theory of pressure-induced extracellular vesicle-mediated pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul A Brown
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medical Sciences Teaching and Research Complex, The University of the West Indies, Mona, Kingston 7, Jamaica.
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35
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Yates AG, Pink RC, Erdbrügger U, Siljander PR, Dellar ER, Pantazi P, Akbar N, Cooke WR, Vatish M, Dias‐Neto E, Anthony DC, Couch Y. In sickness and in health: The functional role of extracellular vesicles in physiology and pathology in vivo: Part II: Pathology: Part II: Pathology. J Extracell Vesicles 2022; 11:e12190. [PMID: 35041301 PMCID: PMC8765328 DOI: 10.1002/jev2.12190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 09/03/2021] [Accepted: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
It is clear from Part I of this series that extracellular vesicles (EVs) play a critical role in maintaining the homeostasis of most, if not all, normal physiological systems. However, the majority of our knowledge about EV signalling has come from studying them in disease. Indeed, EVs have consistently been associated with propagating disease pathophysiology. The analysis of EVs in biofluids, obtained in the clinic, has been an essential of the work to improve our understanding of their role in disease. However, to interfere with EV signalling for therapeutic gain, a more fundamental understanding of the mechanisms by which they contribute to pathogenic processes is required. Only by discovering how the EV populations in different biofluids change-size, number, and physicochemical composition-in clinical samples, may we then begin to unravel their functional roles in translational models in vitro and in vivo, which can then feedback to the clinic. In Part II of this review series, the functional role of EVs in pathology and disease will be discussed, with a focus on in vivo evidence and their potential to be used as both biomarkers and points of therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abi G. Yates
- Department of PharmacologyUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
- School of Biomedical SciencesFaculty of MedicineUniversity of QueenslandSt LuciaAustralia
| | - Ryan C. Pink
- Department of Biological and Medical SciencesFaculty of Health and Life SciencesOxford Brookes UniversityOxfordUK
| | - Uta Erdbrügger
- Department of Medicine, Division of NephrologyUniversity of VirginiaCharlottesvilleVirginiaUSA
| | - Pia R‐M. Siljander
- Molecular and Integrative Biosciences Research ProgrammeFaculty of Biological and Environmental SciencesUniversity of HelsinkiHelsinkiFinland
| | - Elizabeth R. Dellar
- Department of Biological and Medical SciencesFaculty of Health and Life SciencesOxford Brookes UniversityOxfordUK
| | - Paschalia Pantazi
- Department of Biological and Medical SciencesFaculty of Health and Life SciencesOxford Brookes UniversityOxfordUK
| | - Naveed Akbar
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of MedicineUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
| | - William R. Cooke
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive HealthJohn Radcliffe Hospital, HeadingtonOxfordUK
| | - Manu Vatish
- Nuffield Department of Women's and Reproductive HealthJohn Radcliffe Hospital, HeadingtonOxfordUK
| | - Emmanuel Dias‐Neto
- Laboratory of Medical Genomics. A.C. Camargo Cancer CentreSão PauloBrazil
- Laboratory of Neurosciences (LIM‐27) Institute of PsychiatrySão Paulo Medical SchoolSão PauloBrazil
| | | | - Yvonne Couch
- Acute Stroke Programme ‐ Radcliffe Department of MedicineUniversity of OxfordOxfordUK
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Parveen A, Mishra S, Srivastava M, Chaudhary DK, Kapoor D, Gupta A, Tiwari S. Circulating Placental Alkaline Phosphatase Expressing Exosomes in Maternal Blood Showed Temporal Regulation of Placental Genes. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:758971. [PMID: 35004728 PMCID: PMC8739800 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.758971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Analysis of placental genes could unravel maternal-fetal complications. However, inaccessibility to placental tissue during early pregnancy has limited this effort. We tested if exosomes (Exo) released by human placenta in the maternal circulation harbor crucial placental genes. Methods: Placental alkaline phosphate positive exosomes (ExoPLAP) were enriched from maternal blood collected at the following gestational weeks; 6-8th (T1), 12-14th (T2), 20-24th (T3), and 28th-32nd (T4). Nanotracking analysis, electron microscopy, dynamic light scattering, and immunoblotting were used for characterization. We used microarray for transcriptome and quantitative PCR (qPCR) for gene analysis in ExoPLAP. Results: Physical characterization and presence of CD63 and CD9 proteins confirmed the successful ExoPLAP enrichment. Four of the selected 36 placental genes did not amplify in ExoPLAP, while 32 showed regulations (n = 3-8/time point). Most genes in ExoPLAP showed significantly lower expression at T2-T4, relative to T1 (p < 0.05), such as NOS3, TNFSF10, OR5H6, APOL3, and NEDD4L. In contrast, genes, such as ATF6, NEDD1, and IGF2, had significantly higher expression at T2-T4 relative to T1. Unbiased gene profiling by microarray also confirmed expression of above genes in ExoPLAP-transcriptome. In addition, repeated measure ANOVA showed a significant change in the ExoPLAP transcriptome from T2 to T4 (n = 5/time point). Conclusion: Placental alkaline phosphate positive exosomes transcriptome changed with gestational age advancement in healthy women. The transcriptome expressed crucial placental genes involved in early embryonic development, such as actin cytoskeleton organization, appropriate cell positioning, DNA replication, and B-cell regulation for protecting mammalian fetuses from rejection. Thus, ExoPLAP in maternal blood could be a promising source to study the placental genes regulation for non-invasive monitoring of placental health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arshiya Parveen
- Department of Molecular Medicine & Biotechnology, Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, India
| | - Suman Mishra
- Department of Molecular Medicine & Biotechnology, Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, India
| | - Medha Srivastava
- Department of Molecular Medicine & Biotechnology, Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, India
| | - Dharmendra K. Chaudhary
- Department of Molecular Medicine & Biotechnology, Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, India
| | - Deepa Kapoor
- General Hospital, Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, India
| | - Amrit Gupta
- Department of Maternal & Reproductive Health, Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, India
| | - Swasti Tiwari
- Department of Molecular Medicine & Biotechnology, Sanjay Gandhi Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, India
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37
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Sung CY, Huang CC, Chen YS, Hsu KF, Lee GB. Isolation and quantification of extracellular vesicle-encapsulated microRNA on an integrated microfluidic platform. LAB ON A CHIP 2021; 21:4660-4671. [PMID: 34739016 DOI: 10.1039/d1lc00663k] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Ovarian cancer (OvCa) is the most fatal among gynecological cancers and affects many women worldwide. Since OvCa is prone to metastasis, which significantly increases chances of death, biomarkers for early-stage OvCa are greatly needed. This study develops an integrated microfluidic platform for isolating and quantifying one of the OvCa blood biomarkers. As a demonstration, microRNA-21 (miRNA-21), which is one of the important biomarkers for cancers, was isolated and measured in this study. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) in blood were first captured and isolated by anti-CD63-coated magnetic beads. Then, EV-encapsulated miRNA-21 was isolated by complementary DNA-coated magnetic beads, and finally the isolated miRNA-21 was quantified by digital polymerase chain reaction (digital PCR, dPCR). The integrated chip featured a sample treatment module and a miRNA quantification module that automated the entire process, and the limit of detection (LOD) was 11 copies per mL. The inaccuracy of the miRNA quantification module (i.e. dPCR) was found to be <12%. Additionally, spiked samples and clinical samples were used to test the performance of the developed platform. It is envisioned that the developed system can serve as a valuable and promising tool for OvCa biomarker measurements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia-Yu Sung
- Department of Life Science, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 30013, Taiwan
| | - Chi-Chien Huang
- Department of Power Mechanical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 30013, Taiwan.
| | - Yi-Sin Chen
- Department of Power Mechanical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 30013, Taiwan.
| | - Keng-Fu Hsu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 70403 Taiwan.
| | - Gwo-Bin Lee
- Department of Power Mechanical Engineering, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 30013, Taiwan.
- Institute of NanoEngineering and Microsystems, National Tsing Hua University, Hsinchu 30013, Taiwan
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Erlandsson L, Masoumi Z, Hansson LR, Hansson SR. The roles of free iron, heme, haemoglobin, and the scavenger proteins haemopexin and alpha-1-microglobulin in preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction. J Intern Med 2021; 290:952-968. [PMID: 34146434 DOI: 10.1111/joim.13349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preeclampsia (PE) is a complex pregnancy syndrome characterised by maternal hypertension and organ damage after 20 weeks of gestation and is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease later in life. Extracellular haemoglobin (Hb) and its metabolites heme and iron are highly toxic molecules and several defence mechanisms have evolved to protect the tissue. OBJECTIVES We will discuss the roles of free iron, heme, Hb, and the scavenger proteins haemopexin and alpha-1-microglobulin in pregnancies complicated by PE and fetal growth restriction (FGR). CONCLUSION In PE, oxidative stress causes syncytiotrophoblast (STB) stress and increased shedding of placental STB-derived extracellular vesicles (STBEV). The level in maternal circulation correlates with the severity of hypertension and supports the involvement of STBEVs in causing maternal symptoms in PE. In PE and FGR, iron homeostasis is changed, and iron levels significantly correlate with the severity of the disease. The normal increase in plasma volume taking place during pregnancy is less for PE and FGR and therefore have a different impact on, for example, iron concentration, compared to normal pregnancy. Excess iron promotes ferroptosis is suggested to play a role in trophoblast stress and lipotoxicity. Non-erythroid α-globin regulates vasodilation through the endothelial nitric oxide synthase pathway, and hypoxia-induced α-globin expression in STBs in PE placentas is suggested to contribute to hypertension in PE. Underlying placental pathology in PE with and without FGR might be amplified by iron and heme overload causing oxidative stress and ferroptosis. As the placenta becomes stressed, the release of STBEVs increases and affects the maternal vasculature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Erlandsson
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Zahra Masoumi
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Lucas R Hansson
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Stefan R Hansson
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Sciences Lund, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.,Obstetrics and Gynecology, Skåne University Hospital, Lund/Malmö, Sweden
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Munjas J, Sopić M, Stefanović A, Košir R, Ninić A, Joksić I, Antonić T, Spasojević-Kalimanovska V, Prosenc Zmrzljak U. Non-Coding RNAs in Preeclampsia-Molecular Mechanisms and Diagnostic Potential. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:10652. [PMID: 34638993 PMCID: PMC8508896 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 09/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is a leading cause of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Defects in trophoblast invasion, differentiation of extravillous trophoblasts and spiral artery remodeling are key factors in PE development. Currently there are no predictive biomarkers clinically available for PE. Recent technological advancements empowered transcriptome exploration and led to the discovery of numerous non-coding RNA species of which microRNAs (miRNAs) and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are the most investigated. They are implicated in the regulation of numerous cellular functions, and as such are being extensively explored as potential biomarkers for various diseases. Altered expression of numerous lncRNAs and miRNAs in placenta has been related to pathophysiological processes that occur in preeclampsia. In the following text we offer summary of the latest knowledge of the molecular mechanism by which lnRNAs and miRNAs (focusing on the chromosome 19 miRNA cluster (C19MC)) contribute to pathophysiology of PE development and their potential utility as biomarkers of PE, with special focus on sample selection and techniques for the quantification of lncRNAs and miRNAs in maternal circulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jelena Munjas
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, Street Vojvode Stepe 450, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (J.M.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (A.N.); (T.A.); (V.S.-K.)
| | - Miron Sopić
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, Street Vojvode Stepe 450, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (J.M.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (A.N.); (T.A.); (V.S.-K.)
| | - Aleksandra Stefanović
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, Street Vojvode Stepe 450, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (J.M.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (A.N.); (T.A.); (V.S.-K.)
| | - Rok Košir
- BIA Separations CRO, Labena Ltd., Street Verovškova 64, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia;
| | - Ana Ninić
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, Street Vojvode Stepe 450, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (J.M.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (A.N.); (T.A.); (V.S.-K.)
| | - Ivana Joksić
- Genetic Laboratory Department, Obstetrics and Gynaecology Clinic “Narodni Front”, Street Kraljice Natalije 62, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Tamara Antonić
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, Street Vojvode Stepe 450, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (J.M.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (A.N.); (T.A.); (V.S.-K.)
| | - Vesna Spasojević-Kalimanovska
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Belgrade, Street Vojvode Stepe 450, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (J.M.); (M.S.); (A.S.); (A.N.); (T.A.); (V.S.-K.)
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Tang Y, Groom K, Chamley L, Chen Q. Melatonin, a Potential Therapeutic Agent for Preeclampsia, Reduces the Extrusion of Toxic Extracellular Vesicles from Preeclamptic Placentae. Cells 2021; 10:cells10081904. [PMID: 34440672 PMCID: PMC8393242 DOI: 10.3390/cells10081904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia, characterised by maternal endothelial cell activation, is triggered by toxic factors, such as placental extracellular vesicles (EVs) from a dysfunctional placenta. The increased oxidative stress seen in the preeclamptic placenta links to endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. The ER regulates protein folding and trafficking. When the ER is stressed, proteins are misfolded, and misfolded proteins are toxic. Misfolded proteins can be exported from cells, via EVs which target to other cells where the misfolded proteins may also be toxic. Melatonin is a hormone and antioxidant produced by the pineal gland and placenta. Levels of melatonin are reduced in preeclampsia. In this study we investigated whether melatonin treatment can change the nature of placental EVs that are released from a preeclamptic placenta. EVs were collected from preeclamptic (n = 6) and normotensive (n = 6) placental explants cultured in the presence or absence of melatonin for 18 h. Misfolded proteins were measured using a fluorescent compound, Thioflavin-T (ThT). Endothelial cells were exposed to placental EVs overnight. Endothelial cell activation was measured by the quantification of cell-surface ICAM-1 using a cell-based ELISA. EVs from preeclamptic placentae carried significantly (p < 0.001) more misfolded proteins than normotensive controls. Incubating preeclamptic placental explants in the presence of melatonin (1 µM and 10 µM) significantly (p < 0.001) reduced the misfolded proteins carried by EVs. Culturing endothelial cells in the presence of preeclamptic EVs significantly increased the expression of ICAM-1. This increased ICAM-1 expression was significantly reduced when the endothelial cells were exposed to preeclamptic EVs cultured in the presence of melatonin. This study demonstrates that melatonin reduces the amount of misfolded proteins carried by EVs from preeclamptic placentae and reduces the ability of these EVs to activate endothelial cells. Our study provides further preclinical support for the use of melatonin as a treatment for preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunhui Tang
- Department of Family Planning, The Hospital of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200081, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Auckland, 1142 Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Katie Groom
- National Women's Health, Auckland City Hospital, 1142 Auckland, New Zealand
- Liggins Institute, The University of Auckland, 1142 Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Larry Chamley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Auckland, 1142 Auckland, New Zealand
- Hub for Extracellular Vesicle Investigations, The University of Auckland, 1142 Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Qi Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Auckland, 1142 Auckland, New Zealand
- Hub for Extracellular Vesicle Investigations, The University of Auckland, 1142 Auckland, New Zealand
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Syncytiotrophoblast stress in early onset preeclampsia: The issues perpetuating the syndrome. Placenta 2021; 113:57-66. [PMID: 34053733 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2021.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Revised: 04/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-specific syndrome characterized by a sudden increase in blood pressure accompanied by proteinuria and/or maternal multi-system damage associated to poor fetal outcome. In early-onset preeclampsia, utero-placental perfusion is altered, causing constant and progressive damage to the syncytiotrophoblast, generating syncytiotrophoblast stress. The latter leads to the detachment and release of syncytiotrophoblast fragments, anti-angiogenic factors and pro-inflammatory molecules into maternal circulation, resulting in the emergence and persistence of the characteristic symptoms of this syndrome during pregnancy. Therefore, understanding the origin and consequences of syncytiotrophoblast stress in preeclampsia is vital to develop new therapeutic alternatives, focused on reducing the burden of this syndrome. In this review, we describe five central characteristics of syncytial stress that should be targeted or prevented in order to reduce preeclampsia symptoms: histological alterations, syncytiotrophoblast damage, antiangiogenic protein export, placental deportation, and altered syncytiotrophoblast turnover. Therapeutic management of these characteristics may improve maternal and fetal outcomes.
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Gebara N, Correia Y, Wang K, Bussolati B. Angiogenic Properties of Placenta-Derived Extracellular Vesicles in Normal Pregnancy and in Preeclampsia. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:5402. [PMID: 34065595 PMCID: PMC8160914 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22105402] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Angiogenesis is one of the main processes that coordinate the biological events leading to a successful pregnancy, and its imbalance characterizes several pregnancy-related diseases, including preeclampsia. Intracellular interactions via extracellular vesicles (EVs) contribute to pregnancy's physiology and pathophysiology, and to the fetal-maternal interaction. The present review outlines the implications of EV-mediated crosstalk in the angiogenic process in healthy pregnancy and its dysregulation in preeclampsia. In particular, the effect of EVs derived from gestational tissues in pro and anti-angiogenic processes in the physiological and pathological setting is described. Moreover, the application of EVs from placental stem cells in the clinical setting is reported.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Gebara
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, 10124 Torino, Italy;
| | - Yolanda Correia
- Aston Medical Research Institute, Aston Medical School, Aston University, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK; (Y.C.); (K.W.)
| | - Keqing Wang
- Aston Medical Research Institute, Aston Medical School, Aston University, Birmingham B4 7ET, UK; (Y.C.); (K.W.)
| | - Benedetta Bussolati
- Department of Molecular Biotechnology and Health Sciences, University of Torino, 10124 Torino, Italy;
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43
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Extracellular Vesicles and Antiphospholipid Syndrome: State-of-the-Art and Future Challenges. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22094689. [PMID: 33925261 PMCID: PMC8125219 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22094689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2021] [Revised: 04/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is a systemic autoimmune disorder characterized by thromboembolism, obstetric complications, and the presence of antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL). Extracellular vesicles (EVs) play a key role in intercellular communication and connectivity and are known to be involved in endothelial and vascular pathologies. Despite well-characterized in vitro and in vivo models of APS pathology, the field of EVs remains largely unexplored. This review recapitulates recent findings on the role of EVs in APS, focusing on their contribution to endothelial dysfunction. Several studies have found that APS patients with a history of thrombotic events have increased levels of EVs, particularly of endothelial origin. In obstetric APS, research on plasma levels of EVs is limited, but it appears that levels of EVs are increased. In general, there is evidence that EVs activate endothelial cells, exhibit proinflammatory and procoagulant effects, interact directly with cell receptors, and transfer biological material. Future studies on EVs in APS may provide new insights into APS pathology and reveal their potential as biomarkers to identify patients at increased risk.
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Su MT, Tsai PY, Wang CY, Tsai HL, Kuo PL. Aspirin facilitates trophoblast invasion and epithelial-mesenchymal transition by regulating the miR-200-ZEB1 axis in preeclampsia. Biomed Pharmacother 2021; 139:111591. [PMID: 33865015 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2021.111591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a severe gestational hypertensive disorder that occurs after 20 weeks' of gestation. It involves several maternal systems, such as cardiovascular, renal, coagulatory systems, and poses a major threat to the maternal and fetal health. Recent clinical evidence showed that aspirin is an effective preventative treatment for reducing the incidence of premature preeclampsia among high-risk pregnant women, however, the mechanism of drug action is not clear. miR-200 family has been shown to be associated with preeclampsia and upregulated in the plasma and placenta of preeclamptic patients. Here we revealed that miR-200 family inhibited trophoblast invasion and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) process by stimulating epithelial marker expression (E-cadherin and ZO-1) and repressing mesenchymal marker expression (ZEB1 and TGFβ1). Similarly, EMT markers in the placenta of preeclamptic patients showed higher E-cadherin and lower ZEB1 and TGF-β1 protein expression. Moreover, aspirin was shown to suppress miR-200 family and these miR-200 family-mediated cell functions, including cell invasion and EMT changes, were completely reversed. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the effect of miR-200 family on trophoblast invasion and EMT. For the first time, aspirin was shown to fully reverse miR-200-mediated trophoblast biology and act through the network signaling of TGF-β1/ZEB1/miR-200. These results provide a plausible mechanism explaining aspirin's effect on preeclampsia prevention and a therapeutic target for disease intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mei-Tsz Su
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 138 Sheng-Li Road, Tainan 704, Taiwan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tainan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Tainan, Taiwan.
| | - Pei-Yin Tsai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 138 Sheng-Li Road, Tainan 704, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Yih Wang
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan; Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Ling Tsai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 138 Sheng-Li Road, Tainan 704, Taiwan
| | - Pao-Lin Kuo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Cheng Kung University Hospital, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, 138 Sheng-Li Road, Tainan 704, Taiwan
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The effect of extracellular vesicles on the regulation of mitochondria under hypoxia. Cell Death Dis 2021; 12:358. [PMID: 33824273 PMCID: PMC8024302 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-021-03640-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 03/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondria are indispensable organelles for maintaining cell energy metabolism, and also are necessary to retain cell biological function by transmitting information as signal organelles. Hypoxia, one of the important cellular stresses, can directly regulates mitochondrial metabolites and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (mROS), which affects the nuclear gene expression through mitochondrial retrograde signal pathways, and also promotes the delivery of signal components into cytoplasm, causing cellular injury. In addition, mitochondria can also trigger adaptive mechanisms to maintain mitochondrial function in response to hypoxia. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), as a medium of information transmission between cells, can change the biological effects of receptor cells by the release of cargo, including nucleic acids, proteins, lipids, mitochondria, and their compositions. The secretion of EVs increases in cells under hypoxia, which indirectly changes the mitochondrial function through the uptake of contents by the receptor cells. In this review, we focus on the mitochondrial regulation indirectly through EVs under hypoxia, and the possible mechanisms that EVs cause the changes in mitochondrial function. Finally, we discuss the significance of this EV-mitochondria axis in hypoxic diseases.
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46
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Syncytiotrophoblast Derived Extracellular Vesicles in Relation to Preeclampsia. MATERNAL-FETAL MEDICINE 2021. [DOI: 10.1097/fm9.0000000000000093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
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Wang Z, Zhao G, Zeng M, Feng W, Liu J. Overview of extracellular vesicles in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia†. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:32-39. [PMID: 33778844 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2020] [Revised: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/22/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is a leading cause of maternal and fetal-neonatal deaths, and its pathogenesis has been linked to the involvement of extracellular vesicles (EVs). EVs are a heterogeneous group of cell-originated membranous vesicles including exosomes, microvesicles, and apoptotic bodies. EVs transport various bioactive cargos such as lipids, proteins, or nucleic acids, and thus mediate cellular communication and contribute to the proper functioning of cells, organs and processes, including normal pregnancy. Numerous studies have reported that EVs are associated with abnormal levels of soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1), soluble endoglin (sEng), and placental growth factor (PlGF) in PE. EVs isolated from preeclamptic women have been implicated in trophoblast dysfunction and have been reported to activate endothelium, monocytes, and platelets, and to be involved in defective placentation, imbalanced angiogenesis, and intravascular inflammation. When injected into pregnant rodents, these EVs induced hypertension, proteinuria, and adverse fetal outcomes. Deciphering the contribution of EVs to PE will advance our current understanding of this disorder and may lead to more clinical strategies for the management of PE. Of note, the composition of EV cargos may be characteristic of the status and stages of gestation, providing researchers the possibility of one day using EVs as novel, noninvasive, biomarkers for early screening of PE. Herein, we reviewed the latest research into EVs with emphasis on their role in the pathogenesis of PE and their applications as biomarkers in the early screening of this pregnancy-specific disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Department of Pharmacy, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Gongxiao Zhao
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Ming Zeng
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Weiyi Feng
- Department of Pharmacy, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Jinjun Liu
- Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
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Hypoxia-Induced Alpha-Globin Expression in Syncytiotrophoblasts Mimics the Pattern Observed in Preeclamptic Placentas. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22073357. [PMID: 33806017 PMCID: PMC8036899 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22073357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is a pregnancy disorder associated with placental dysfunction and elevated fetal hemoglobin (HbF). Early in pregnancy the placenta harbors hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) and is an extramedullary source of erythropoiesis. However, globin expression is not unique to erythroid cells and can be triggered by hypoxia. To investigate the role of the placenta in increasing globin levels previously reported in PE, flow cytometry, histological and immunostaining and in situ analyses were used on placenta samples and ex vivo explant cultures. Our results indicated that in PE pregnancies, placental HSPC homing and erythropoiesis were not affected. Non-erythroid alpha-globin mRNA and protein, but not gamma-globin, were detected in syncytiotrophoblasts and stroma of PE placenta samples. Similarly, alpha-globin protein and mRNA were upregulated in normal placenta explants cultured in hypoxia. The upregulation was independent of HIF1 and NRF2, the two main candidates of globin transcription in non-erythroid cells. Our study is the first to demonstrate alpha-globin mRNA expression in syncytiotrophoblasts in PE, induced by hypoxia. However, gamma-globin was only expressed in erythrocytes. We conclude that alpha-globin, but not HbF, is expressed in placental syncytiotrophoblasts in PE and may contribute to the pathology of the disease.
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Hornakova A, Kolkova Z, Holubekova V, Loderer D, Lasabova Z, Biringer K, Halasova E. Diagnostic Potential of MicroRNAs as Biomarkers in the Detection of Preeclampsia. Genet Test Mol Biomarkers 2021; 24:321-327. [PMID: 32511062 DOI: 10.1089/gtmb.2019.0264] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a multisystemic disorder that occurs in 5-8% of pregnant women and remains a leading cause of both maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. The disease is characterized by the abnormal vascular response to placentation, but the exact pathophysiology and pathogenesis of preeclampsia remain unknown. Risk factors for preeclampsia include increased maternal age, obesity, multiple gestations, and a history of preeclampsia. Several studies have suggested that altered expression of some microRNAs (miRNAs) in placental tissue, and maternal circulation, may be associated with several types of pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia, preterm birth, and spontaneous abortion. It is assumed that these miRNAs play an important role in various cellular processes important for maintaining a healthy pregnancy, including promoting angiogenesis and the differentiation of trophoblast cells. In this review, we discuss the role of miRNAs as potential biomarkers of preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Hornakova
- Biomedical Center Martin JFM CU, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Zuzana Kolkova
- Biomedical Center Martin JFM CU, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Veronika Holubekova
- Biomedical Center Martin JFM CU, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Dusan Loderer
- Biomedical Center Martin JFM CU, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Zora Lasabova
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genomics and Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Kamil Biringer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
| | - Erika Halasova
- Biomedical Center Martin JFM CU, Jessenius Faculty of Medicine in Martin, Comenius University in Bratislava, Martin, Slovakia
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Kupper N, Huppertz B. The endogenous exposome of the pregnant mother: Placental extracellular vesicles and their effect on the maternal system. Mol Aspects Med 2021; 87:100955. [PMID: 33612320 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2021.100955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
During pregnancy, there is an intense crosstalk between mother and placenta. During the entire time of pregnancy, the maternal system deals with a huge amount of foreign (fetal) material released from the placenta, which can be referred to as placental exposome. Besides the release of hormones and growth factors, the placenta releases a variety of extracellular vesicles into maternal blood. These vesicles contain specific molecules including proteins, lipids, DNA as well as miRNA, all of which may have specific sites and modes of action on maternal cells. During normal pregnancy, the fine-tuning of factors and vesicles helps maintaining a viable and healthy pregnancy. However, in pregnancy pathologies such as preeclampsia, quantity and quality of the placenta-derived vesicles are altered leading to a deleterious effect on the maternal vascular system. This review focuses on the different types of placenta-derived extracellular vesicles in pregnancy with special emphasis on the interplay between these placental vesicles and the maternal system. Additionally, it displays new techniques and ideas for the analysis of the placental exposome with placental extracellular vesicles as a key aspect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadja Kupper
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Berthold Huppertz
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.
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