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Stanley KE, Jatsenko T, Tuveri S, Sudhakaran D, Lannoo L, Van Calsteren K, de Borre M, Van Parijs I, Van Coillie L, Van Den Bogaert K, De Almeida Toledo R, Lenaerts L, Tejpar S, Punie K, Rengifo LY, Vandenberghe P, Thienpont B, Vermeesch JR. Cell type signatures in cell-free DNA fragmentation profiles reveal disease biology. Nat Commun 2024; 15:2220. [PMID: 38472221 PMCID: PMC10933257 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-46435-0] [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: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Circulating cell-free DNA (cfDNA) fragments have characteristics that are specific to the cell types that release them. Current methods for cfDNA deconvolution typically use disease tailored marker selection in a limited number of bulk tissues or cell lines. Here, we utilize single cell transcriptome data as a comprehensive cellular reference set for disease-agnostic cfDNA cell-of-origin analysis. We correlate cfDNA-inferred nucleosome spacing with gene expression to rank the relative contribution of over 490 cell types to plasma cfDNA. In 744 healthy individuals and patients, we uncover cell type signatures in support of emerging disease paradigms in oncology and prenatal care. We train predictive models that can differentiate patients with colorectal cancer (84.7%), early-stage breast cancer (90.1%), multiple myeloma (AUC 95.0%), and preeclampsia (88.3%) from matched controls. Importantly, our approach performs well in ultra-low coverage cfDNA datasets and can be readily transferred to diverse clinical settings for the expansion of liquid biopsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate E Stanley
- Department of Human Genetics, Laboratory for Cytogenetics and Genome Research, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition, Karolinska Institute, Huddinge, Sweden
| | - Tatjana Jatsenko
- Department of Human Genetics, Laboratory for Cytogenetics and Genome Research, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Stefania Tuveri
- Department of Human Genetics, Laboratory for Cytogenetics and Genome Research, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Dhanya Sudhakaran
- Department of Human Genetics, Laboratory for Cytogenetics and Genome Research, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Lore Lannoo
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kristel Van Calsteren
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marie de Borre
- Department of Human Genetics, Laboratory for Functional Epigenetics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Ilse Van Parijs
- Center for Human Genetics, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Leen Van Coillie
- Center for Human Genetics, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | | | - Liesbeth Lenaerts
- Department of Oncology, Gynecological Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sabine Tejpar
- Department of Oncology, Molecular Digestive Oncology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kevin Punie
- Multidisciplinary Breast Centre, Leuven Cancer Institute, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Laura Y Rengifo
- Department of Human Genetics, Laboratory of Genetics of Malignant Diseases, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Peter Vandenberghe
- Department of Human Genetics, Laboratory of Genetics of Malignant Diseases, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Hematology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Bernard Thienpont
- Department of Human Genetics, Laboratory for Functional Epigenetics, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Joris Robert Vermeesch
- Department of Human Genetics, Laboratory for Cytogenetics and Genome Research, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium.
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Głowska-Ciemny J, Szmyt K, Kuszerska A, Rzepka R, von Kaisenberg C, Kocyłowski R. Fetal and Placental Causes of Elevated Serum Alpha-Fetoprotein Levels in Pregnant Women. J Clin Med 2024; 13:466. [PMID: 38256600 PMCID: PMC10816536 DOI: 10.3390/jcm13020466] [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: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The most common association related to alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is fetal neural tube defect (NTD), and indeed, this is where the international career of this protein began. In times when ultrasonography was not yet technically advanced, the detection of high levels of AFP in maternal serum (MS-AFP) and amniotic fluid was the basis for suspecting neural tube defects. In cases where there was no confirmation of NTD, other causes were sought. It has been established that high titers of MS-AFP could originate in other defects or diseases, such as (1) increased proteinuria in severe fetal kidney diseases; (2) pathological overproduction in liver diseases; (3) penetration through the membranes of gastrointestinal organs exposed to amniotic fluid; (4) passage through the walls of skin vessels; and as a side effect of (5) hepatic hematopoiesis and increased transfer through the edematous placenta in fetal anemia. This article provides a review of the current literature on congenital defects and genetic diseases in the fetus where an elevated level of MS-AFP may serve as the initial diagnostic clue for their detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Głowska-Ciemny
- PreMediCare Prenatal Research Center, 21 Czarna Rola St., 61-625 Poznan, Poland; (K.S.); (A.K.); (R.K.)
- New Med Medical Center, 100 Szamotulska St., 60-566 Poznan, Poland
| | - Konrad Szmyt
- PreMediCare Prenatal Research Center, 21 Czarna Rola St., 61-625 Poznan, Poland; (K.S.); (A.K.); (R.K.)
| | - Agata Kuszerska
- PreMediCare Prenatal Research Center, 21 Czarna Rola St., 61-625 Poznan, Poland; (K.S.); (A.K.); (R.K.)
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Zielona Gora, 28 Zyty St., 65-046 Zielona Gora, Poland;
| | - Rafał Rzepka
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Zielona Gora, 28 Zyty St., 65-046 Zielona Gora, Poland;
| | - Constantin von Kaisenberg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Str. 1, D-30625 Hannover, Germany;
| | - Rafał Kocyłowski
- PreMediCare Prenatal Research Center, 21 Czarna Rola St., 61-625 Poznan, Poland; (K.S.); (A.K.); (R.K.)
- New Med Medical Center, 100 Szamotulska St., 60-566 Poznan, Poland
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3
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Guibourdenche J, Leguy MC, Pidoux G, Hebert-Schuster M, Laguillier C, Anselem O, Grangé G, Bonnet F, Tsatsaris V. Biochemical Screening for Fetal Trisomy 21: Pathophysiology of Maternal Serum Markers and Involvement of the Placenta. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24087669. [PMID: 37108840 PMCID: PMC10146970 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24087669] [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] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/20/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
It is now well established that maternal serum markers are often abnormal in fetal trisomy 21. Their determination is recommended for prenatal screening and pregnancy follow-up. However, mechanisms leading to abnormal maternal serum levels of such markers are still debated. Our objective was to help clinicians and scientists unravel the pathophysiology of these markers via a review of the main studies published in this field, both in vivo and in vitro, focusing on the six most widely used markers (hCG, its free subunit hCGβ, PAPP-A, AFP, uE3, and inhibin A) as well as cell-free feto-placental DNA. Analysis of the literature shows that mechanisms underlying each marker's regulation are multiple and not necessarily directly linked with the supernumerary chromosome 21. The crucial involvement of the placenta is also highlighted, which could be defective in one or several of its functions (turnover and apoptosis, endocrine production, and feto-maternal exchanges and transfer). These defects were neither constant nor specific for trisomy 21, and might be more or less pronounced, reflecting a high variability in placental immaturity and alteration. This explains why maternal serum markers can lack both specificity and sensitivity, and are thus restricted to screening.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean Guibourdenche
- Hormonologie CHU Cochin AP-HP, 75014 Paris, France
- Faculté de Santé, Université Paris Cité, 75014 Paris, France
- FHU Préma, 75014 Paris, France
| | | | | | | | - Christelle Laguillier
- Hormonologie CHU Cochin AP-HP, 75014 Paris, France
- Faculté de Santé, Université Paris Cité, 75014 Paris, France
- UMR-S1139, 75014 Paris, France
| | - Olivia Anselem
- FHU Préma, 75014 Paris, France
- Maternité Port Royal CHU Cochin AP-HP, 75014 Paris, France
| | - Gilles Grangé
- FHU Préma, 75014 Paris, France
- Maternité Port Royal CHU Cochin AP-HP, 75014 Paris, France
| | - Fidéline Bonnet
- Hormonologie CHU Cochin AP-HP, 75014 Paris, France
- Faculté de Santé, Université Paris Cité, 75014 Paris, France
| | - Vassilis Tsatsaris
- Faculté de Santé, Université Paris Cité, 75014 Paris, France
- FHU Préma, 75014 Paris, France
- Maternité Port Royal CHU Cochin AP-HP, 75014 Paris, France
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4
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Xun X, Qin X, Layden AJ, Yin Q, Swan SH, Barrett ES, Bush NR, Sathyanarayana S, Adibi JJ. Application of 4-way decomposition to the analysis of placental-fetal biomarkers as intermediary variables between maternal body mass index and birthweight. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2022; 4:994436. [PMID: 36545491 PMCID: PMC9760955 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2022.994436] [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: 07/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is a placental hormone measured in pregnancy to predict individual level risk of fetal aneuploidy and other complications; yet may be useful in understanding placental origins of child development more generally. hCG was associated with maternal body mass index (BMI) and with birthweight. The primary aim here was to evaluate hCG as a mediator of maternal BMI effects on birthweight by causal mediation analysis. Subjects were 356 women from 3 U.S. sites (2010-2013). The 4-way decomposition method using med4way (STATA) was applied to screen for 5 types of effects of first trimester maternal BMI on birthweight: the total effect, the direct effect, mediation by hCG, additive interaction of BMI and hCG, and mediation in the presence of an additive interaction. Effect modification by fetal sex was evaluated, and a sensitivity analysis was performed to evaluate the assumption of unmeasured confounding. Additional placental-fetal biomarkers [pregnancy associated plasma protein A (PAPPA), second trimester hCG, inhibin-A, estriol, alpha fetoprotein] were analyzed for comparison. For first trimester hCG, there was a 0.20 standard deviation increase in birthweight at the 75th vs. 25th percentile of maternal BMI (95% CI 0.04, 0.36). Once stratified, the direct effect association was null in women carrying females. In women carrying males, hCG did not mediate the relationship. In women carrying females, there was a mediated effect of maternal BMI on birthweight by hCG in the reverse direction (-0.06, 95% CI: -0.12, 0.01), and a mediated interaction in the positive direction (0.06, 95% CI 0.00, 0.13). In women carrying males, the maternal BMI effect on birthweight was reverse mediated by PAPPA (-0.09, 95% CI: -0.17, 0.00). Sex-specific mediation was mostly present in the first trimester. Second trimester AFP was a positive mediator of maternal BMI effects in male infants only (0.06, 95% CI: -0.01, 0.13). Effect estimates were robust to potential bias due to unmeasured confounders. These findings motivate research to consider first trimester placental biomarkers and sex-specific mechanisms when quantifying the effects of maternal adiposity on fetal growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoshuang Xun
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Xu Qin
- Department of Health and Human Development, School of Education, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Alexander J Layden
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Qing Yin
- Department of Biostatistics, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Shanna H Swan
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, United States
| | - Emily S Barrett
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Rutgers School of Public Health, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, United States
| | - Nicole R Bush
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | | | - Jennifer J Adibi
- Department of Epidemiology, School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
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5
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Peris M, Reid SM, Dobie S, Bonacquisto L, Shepherd DA, Amor DJ. Second trimester maternal serum biomarkers and the risk of cerebral palsy. Prenat Diagn 2021; 41:1101-1110. [PMID: 34270813 DOI: 10.1002/pd.6011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
AIMS To investigate whether second trimester maternal serum screening (2TMSS) biomarkers are associated with cerebral palsy (CP) and identify CP characteristics associated with abnormal biomarker levels. METHOD In this retrospective case-control data linkage study, we linked mothers of 129 singleton CP cases from a population register to their 2TMSS records and selected 10 singleton pregnancy controls per case (n = 1290). We compared mean and abnormal levels of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), beta subunit of human chorionic gonadotrophin (β-hCG), unconjugated estriol (uE3), and inhibin between cases and controls and within CP subgroups. RESULTS Compared to control pregnancies, CP pregnancies had higher mean levels of AFP (1.10 vs. 1.01 multiple of the population median [MoM], p = 0.01) and inhibin (1.10 vs. 0.98 MoM, p ≤ 0.01). CP pregnancies were 2.5 times more likely to be associated with high levels of AFP (OR 2.52 [95% confidence interval [CI] 1.30, 4.65]; p < 0.01) and 2.6 times for inhibin (OR 2.63 [95% CI 1.37, 4.77]; p < 0.01), and 6.8 times when AFP and inhibin were both elevated (OR 6.75 [95% CI 2.41, 18.94]; p < 0.01). In CP cases, high AFP and high inhibin levels were associated with preterm birth and low birthweight. INTERPRETATION Abnormal second-trimester biomarker levels suggest abnormal placentation plays a role in the causal pathway of some CP cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monique Peris
- Neurodisability and Rehabilitation, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,Neurodevelopment and Disability, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Susan M Reid
- Neurodisability and Rehabilitation, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,Neurodevelopment and Disability, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Stephen Dobie
- Victorian Clinical Genetics Services, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Daisy A Shepherd
- Neurodisability and Rehabilitation, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - David J Amor
- Neurodisability and Rehabilitation, Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia.,Neurodevelopment and Disability, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia.,Victorian Clinical Genetics Services, Melbourne, Australia
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6
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Mayoral Andrade G, Vásquez Martínez G, Pérez-Campos Mayoral L, Hernández-Huerta MT, Zenteno E, Pérez-Campos Mayoral E, Martínez Cruz M, Martínez Cruz R, Matias-Cervantes CA, Meraz Cruz N, Romero Díaz C, Cruz-Parada E, Pérez-Campos E. Molecules and Prostaglandins Related to Embryo Tolerance. Front Immunol 2020; 11:555414. [PMID: 33329514 PMCID: PMC7710691 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.555414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
It is generally understood that the entry of semen into the female reproductive tract provokes molecular and cellular changes facilitating conception and pregnancy. We show a broader picture of the participation of prostaglandins in the fertilization, implantation and maintenance of the embryo. A large number of cells and molecules are related to signaling networks, which regulate tolerance to implantation and maintenance of the embryo and fetus. In this work, many of those cells and molecules are analyzed. We focus on platelets, polymorphonuclear leukocytes, and group 2 innate lymphoid cells involved in embryo tolerance in order to have a wider view of how prostaglandins participate. The combination of platelets and neutrophil extracellular traps (Nets), uterine innate lymphoid cells (uILC), Treg cells, NK cells, and sex hormones have an important function in immunological tolerance. In both animals and humans, the functions of these cells can be regulated by prostaglandins and soluble factors in seminal plasma to achieve an immunological balance, which maintains fetal-maternal tolerance. Prostaglandins, such as PGI2 and PGE2, play an important role in the suppression of the previously mentioned cells. PGI2 inhibits platelet aggregation, in addition to IL-5 and IL-13 expression in ILC2, and PGE2 inhibits some neutrophil functions, such as chemotaxis and migration processes, leukotriene B4 (LTB4) biosynthesis, ROS production, and the formation of extracellular traps, which could help prevent trophoblast injury and fetal loss. The implications are related to fertility in female when seminal fluid is deposited in the vagina or uterus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Mayoral Andrade
- Research Centre Medicine National Autonomous University of Mexico-Benito Juárez Autonomous University of Oaxaca (UNAM-UABJO), Faculty of Medicine, Benito Juárez Autonomous University of Oaxaca, Oaxaca, Mexico
| | | | - Laura Pérez-Campos Mayoral
- Research Centre Medicine National Autonomous University of Mexico-Benito Juárez Autonomous University of Oaxaca (UNAM-UABJO), Faculty of Medicine, Benito Juárez Autonomous University of Oaxaca, Oaxaca, Mexico
| | | | - Edgar Zenteno
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, UNAM, Mexico City, México
| | - Eduardo Pérez-Campos Mayoral
- Research Centre Medicine National Autonomous University of Mexico-Benito Juárez Autonomous University of Oaxaca (UNAM-UABJO), Faculty of Medicine, Benito Juárez Autonomous University of Oaxaca, Oaxaca, Mexico
| | | | - Ruth Martínez Cruz
- Research Centre Medicine National Autonomous University of Mexico-Benito Juárez Autonomous University of Oaxaca (UNAM-UABJO), Faculty of Medicine, Benito Juárez Autonomous University of Oaxaca, Oaxaca, Mexico
| | | | - Noemi Meraz Cruz
- School of Medicine, Branch at National Institute of Genomic Medicine, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Carlos Romero Díaz
- Research Centre Medicine National Autonomous University of Mexico-Benito Juárez Autonomous University of Oaxaca (UNAM-UABJO), Faculty of Medicine, Benito Juárez Autonomous University of Oaxaca, Oaxaca, Mexico
| | - Eli Cruz-Parada
- Biochemistry and Immunology Unit, National Technological of Mexico/ITOaxaca, Oaxaca, Mexico
| | - Eduardo Pérez-Campos
- Biochemistry and Immunology Unit, National Technological of Mexico/ITOaxaca, Oaxaca, Mexico
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Zhao L, Sun L, Zheng X, Liu J, Zheng R, Yang R, Wang Y. In vitro fertilization and embryo transfer alter human placental function through trophoblasts in early pregnancy. Mol Med Rep 2020; 21:1897-1909. [PMID: 32319609 PMCID: PMC7057775 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2020.10971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2019] [Accepted: 12/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The mechanism underlying the potential risk associated with in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF‑ET) has been previously investigated but remains to be fully elucidated. As the placenta is a critical organ that sustains and protects the fetus, this is an important area of research. The aim of the present study was to determine the difference in trophoblast cell function in the first trimester between naturally conceived pregnancies and pregnancies achieved via IVF‑ET therapy. A total of 20 placental villi in first trimester samples were obtained through fetal bud aspiration from patients undergoing IVF‑ET due to oviductal factors between January 2016 and August 2018. In addition, a further 20 placental villi were obtained from those who naturally conceived and had normal pregnancies but were undergoing artificial abortion; these patients were recruited as the controls. Reverse transcription‑quantitative (RT‑q)PCR and semi‑quantitative immunohistochemical methods were used to detect the mRNA and protein expression of α‑fetoprotein (AFP), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), transferrin (TF), tubulin β1 class VI (TUBB1), metallothionein 1G (MT1G), BCL2, glial cells missing transcription factor 1 (GCM1), epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor (EGFR), PTEN and leukocyte associated immunoglobulin like receptor 2 (LAIR2) in villi from both groups. Differentially expressed genes were analyzed using Search Tool for the Retrieval of Interacting Genes, and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis was conducted. The RT‑qPCR data revealed that the mRNA expression levels of AFP, VEGF and TF were significantly higher in the IVF‑ET group than in the control group (P<0.05), and those of TUBB1, MT1G, BCL2, GCM1, EGFR, PTEN and LAIR2 were significantly lower (P<0.05). These gene products were expressed in the placental villus tissues, either in the cytoplasm, or in the membrane of syncytiotrophoblast and cytotrophoblast cells. The immunohistochemistry results were in line with those observed using RT‑qPCR. KEGG pathway analysis indicated that the trophoblast cell function of the IVF‑ET group in the first trimester was different from naturally conceived pregnancies with regard to proliferation, invasion, apoptosis and vascular development. The IVF‑ET process may trigger adaptive placental responses, and these compensatory mechanisms could be a risk for certain diseases later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liang Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Beijing 100035, P.R. China
| | - Lifang Sun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Beijing 100035, P.R. China
| | - Xiuli Zheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Beijing 100035, P.R. China
| | - Jingfang Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Beijing 100035, P.R. China
| | - Rong Zheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing Jishuitan Hospital, Beijing 100035, P.R. China
| | - Rui Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, P.R. China
| | - Ying Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, P.R. China
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8
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Hu J, Zhang J, Chan Y, Zhu B. A rat model of placental inflammation explains the unexplained elevated maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2019; 45:1980-1988. [PMID: 31381236 DOI: 10.1111/jog.14085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Accepted: 07/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
AIM It has been reported in numerous studies that elevated maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (MS-AFP) is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes (APO), such as pre-eclampsia, stillbirth, preterm birth and fetal growth restriction. However, the mechanism linking elevated MS-AFP and APO is obscure. In this study, we tried to explore the mechanism by using pregnant rats. METHODS Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was used to induce placental inflammation in pregnant rats. Maternal serum and placental inflammatory cytokines and placental morphology were used to assess the level of placental inflammation. The incidences of APO and the levels of MS-AFP were evaluated. The expressions of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in the related organs and fetal serum AFP levels were detected. RESULTS Compared to saline-treated pregnant rats, LPS led to elevated maternal serum and placental inflammatory cytokines and a higher rate of placental inflammation. Lipopolysaccharide resulted in the features of APO and at the same time elevated MS-AFP. Maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein levels were significantly correlated to the evaluation parameters of APO. Lipopolysaccharide did not increase the expressions of AFP in fetal liver, maternal liver and placenta, but reduced the fetal serum AFP levels. CONCLUSION The phenomenon that elevated MS-AFP is associated with APO, which has been reported in human pregnancies, is observed in our rat model. Placental inflammation can be the potential cause linking the two manifestations together. Although the source of elevated MS-AFP is not identified, fetal blood circulation is suspected. Our study may provide an animal model for the future studies on this subject.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jilin Hu
- Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China.,Medical School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China
| | - Jinman Zhang
- Medical School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China.,National Health Commission's Key Laboratory for Healthy Births in Western China, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, China
| | - Ying Chan
- National Health Commission's Key Laboratory for Healthy Births in Western China, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, China
| | - Baosheng Zhu
- Medical School, Kunming University of Science and Technology, Kunming, China.,National Health Commission's Key Laboratory for Healthy Births in Western China, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First People's Hospital of Yunnan Province, Kunming, China
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9
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Fettke F, Schumacher A, Canellada A, Toledo N, Bekeredjian-Ding I, Bondt A, Wuhrer M, Costa SD, Zenclussen AC. Maternal and Fetal Mechanisms of B Cell Regulation during Pregnancy: Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Stimulates B Cells to Produce IL-10 While Alpha-Fetoprotein Drives Them into Apoptosis. Front Immunol 2016; 7:495. [PMID: 28008329 PMCID: PMC5144100 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2016.00495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2016] [Accepted: 10/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Maternal immune tolerance toward the fetus is an essential requisite for pregnancy. While T cell functions are well documented, little is known about the participation of B cells. We have previously suggested that IL-10-producing B cells are involved in pregnancy tolerance in mice and humans. By employing murine and human systems, we report now that fetal trophoblasts positively regulate the generation of IL-10-producing B cells. We next studied the participation of hormones produced by the placenta as well as the fetal protein alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in B cell modulation. Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), but not progesterone, estrogen, or a combination of both, was able to promote changes in B cell phenotype and boost their IL-10 production, which was abolished after blocking hCG. The hCG-induced B cell phenotype was not associated with augmented galactosylation, sialylation, or fucosylation of IgG subclasses in their Fc. In vitro, hCG induced the synthesis of asymmetrically glycosylated antibodies in their Fab region. Interestingly, AFP had dual effects depending on the concentration. At concentrations corresponding to maternal serum levels, it did not modify the phenotype or IL-10 secretion of B cells. At fetal concentrations, however, AFP was able to drive B cells into apoptosis, which may indicate a protective mechanism to avoid maternal B cells to reach the fetus. Our data suggest that the fetus secrete factors that promote a pregnancy-friendly B cell phenotype, unraveling interesting aspects of B cell function, and modulation by pregnancy hormones and fetal proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franziska Fettke
- Department of Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany; University Women's Clinic, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Anne Schumacher
- Department of Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University , Magdeburg , Germany
| | - Andrea Canellada
- Instituto de Estudios de Inmunidad Humoral, Universidad de Buenos Aires, CONICET-UBA , Buenos Aires , Argentina
| | - Natalia Toledo
- Instituto de Estudios de Inmunidad Humoral, Universidad de Buenos Aires, CONICET-UBA , Buenos Aires , Argentina
| | | | - Albert Bondt
- Center for Proteomics and Metabolomics, Leiden University , Leiden , Netherlands
| | - Manfred Wuhrer
- Center for Proteomics and Metabolomics, Leiden University , Leiden , Netherlands
| | | | - Ana Claudia Zenclussen
- Department of Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University , Magdeburg , Germany
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10
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Mizejewski GJ. Physiology of Alpha-Fetoprotein as a Biomarker for Perinatal Distress: Relevance to Adverse Pregnancy Outcome. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2016; 232:993-1004. [PMID: 17720945 DOI: 10.3181/0612-mr-291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The many physiologic roles of human alpha-fetoprotein (HAFP) and its correlation with perinatal distress/pregnancy outcome are rarely addressed together in the biomedical literature, even though HAFP has long been used as a biomarker for fetal birth defects. Although the well being of the fetus can be monitored by the measurement of gestational age–dependent HAFP in biologic fluid levels (serum, amniotic fluid, urine, and vaginal fluids) throughout pregnancy, the majority of clinical reports reflect largely second trimester and (less likely) first trimester testing due to regulatory clinical restrictions. However, reports of third-trimester and pregnancy term measurement of HAFP levels performed in clinical research and/or investigational settings have gradually increased over the years and have expanded our base knowledge of AFP-associated pregnancy disorders during these stages. The different structural forms of HAFP (isoforms, epitopes, molecular variants, etc.) detected in the various biologic fluid compartments have been limited by antibody recognition of specific epitopic sites developed by the kit manufacturers based on antibody specificity, sensitivity, and precision. Concomitantly, the advances in elucidating the various biologic actions of AFP are opening new vistas toward understanding the physiologic roles of AFP during pregnancy. The present review surveys HAFP as a biomarker for fetal distress during the perinatal period in view of its structural and functional properties. An attempt is then made to relate the AFP fluid levels to adverse pregnancy complications and outcomes. Hence, the present review was divided into two major sections: (I) AFP structure and function considerations and (II) the relationship of AFP levels to the distressed fetus during the third trimester and at term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerald J Mizejewski
- The Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany, NY 12201, USA.
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11
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Piechowski J. Trophoblastic-like transdifferentiation: A key to oncogenesis. Crit Rev Oncol Hematol 2016; 101:1-11. [DOI: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2016.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2015] [Revised: 11/29/2015] [Accepted: 01/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
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12
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Schumacher A, Costa SD, Zenclussen AC. Endocrine factors modulating immune responses in pregnancy. Front Immunol 2014; 5:196. [PMID: 24847324 PMCID: PMC4021116 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2014.00196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 146] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2014] [Accepted: 04/22/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
How the semi-allogeneic fetus is tolerated by the maternal immune system remains a fascinating phenomenon. Despite extensive research activity in this field, the mechanisms underlying fetal tolerance are still not well understood. However, there are growing evidences that immune–immune interactions as well as immune–endocrine interactions build up a complex network of immune regulation that ensures fetal survival within the maternal uterus. In the present review, we aim to summarize emerging research data from our and other laboratories on immune modulating properties of pregnancy hormones with a special focus on progesterone, estradiol, and human chorionic gonadotropin. These pregnancy hormones are critically involved in the successful establishment, maintenance, and termination of pregnancy. They suppress detrimental maternal alloresponses while promoting tolerance pathways. This includes the reduction of the antigen-presenting capacity of dendritic cells (DCs), monocytes, and macrophages as well as the blockage of natural killer cells, T and B cells. Pregnancy hormones also support the proliferation of pregnancy supporting uterine killer cells, retain tolerogenic DCs, and efficiently induce regulatory T (Treg) cells. Furthermore, they are involved in the recruitment of mast cells and Treg cells into the fetal–maternal interface contributing to a local accumulation of pregnancy-protective cells. These findings highlight the importance of endocrine factors for the tolerance induction during pregnancy and encourage further research in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Schumacher
- Department of Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University , Magdeburg , Germany
| | - Serban-Dan Costa
- University Women's Clinic, Otto-von-Guericke University , Magdeburg , Germany
| | - Ana Claudia Zenclussen
- Department of Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University , Magdeburg , Germany
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13
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Mizejewski GJ. Review of the putative cell-surface receptors for alpha-fetoprotein: identification of a candidate receptor protein family. Tumour Biol 2010; 32:241-58. [PMID: 21120646 DOI: 10.1007/s13277-010-0134-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2010] [Accepted: 11/07/2010] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
The identification of a receptor for alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) has long been sought in the field of medicine. The uptake and endocytosis of AFP by rat tumor cells in 1984 sparked a series of confirmatory reports and the original studies were then extended to include multiple tumor types in rats, mice, and humans. The following year, French investigators partially characterized the binding properties of the AFP receptor, but they were not able to purify the receptor. It was not until 1991-1992 that an AFP receptor was partially purified and characterized from both human monocytes and breast cancer cells. By 1993, a monoclonal antibody had been raised against the AFP receptor produced from a breast cancer extract with claims that the receptor was a widespread (universal) oncofetal biomarker for cancer. However, that receptor has yet to be cloned and/or purified due to its complex multimeric binding interactions and associations. The present report will review the literature of the multiple putative AFP receptors described to date, the cellular uptake and endocytosis of AFP, and the biochemical characterization of these putative cell-surface proteins. In addition, evidence derived from computer modeling, proteolytic degradation patterns, and amino acid sequence analysis will be presented in a proposed identification of a family of multi-ligand binding receptors; this family fits many, if not most, of the criteria required for an AFP receptor. The purposed receptor protein family is tentatively identified as the Scavenger receptors which comprise several classes of single- and double-pass integral transmembrane proteins. Present data do not support the concept that the AFP receptor is a "universal" tumor receptor and/or biomarker.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerald J Mizejewski
- Wadsworth Center, Division of Translational Medicine, New York State Department of Health, Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12201, USA.
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14
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Rakheja D, Uddin N, Mitui M, Cope-Yokoyama S, Hogan RN, Burns DK. Fetal akinesia deformation sequence and neuroaxonal dystrophy without PLA2G6 mutation. Pediatr Dev Pathol 2010; 13:492-6. [PMID: 20235854 DOI: 10.2350/10-01-0782-cr.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
We present autopsy findings of a stillborn female infant at 20 to 21 weeks' gestation with neuroaxonal dystrophy. External examination showed features of fetal akinesia deformation sequence. Internal examination showed hypoplasia of the cerebellum, corpus callosum, and optic nerves, as well as nuclear cataracts. Light and electron microscopic examinations showed widespread axonal spheroids in the central and peripheral nervous systems. Gene sequencing failed to reveal PLA2G6 mutations, indicating that fetal neuroaxonal dystrophy presenting as fetal akinesia deformation sequence is genetically distinct from infantile neuroaxonal dystrophy and related disorders. In addition, placental examination showed α-fetoprotein-positive, eosinophilic, globular inclusions in the cytoplasm of a few villous macrophages. The significance of this novel histologic finding is unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dinesh Rakheja
- Department of Pathology, Children's Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA.
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15
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Kim J, Kang HM, Kim H, Kim MR, Kwon HC, Gye MC, Kang SG, Yang HS, You J. Ex vivo characteristics of human amniotic membrane-derived stem cells. CLONING AND STEM CELLS 2008; 9:581-94. [PMID: 18154518 DOI: 10.1089/clo.2007.0027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Cells were isolated from four human amniotic membranes, and their biological characteristics analyzed during ex vivo expansion. Morphologically homogenous populations of fibroblast-like cells were obtained from the second or third passage. Under the appropriate culture conditions, these human amniotic membrane-derived mesenchymal cells (HAM) were shown to differentiate into adipocytes, osteocytes, chondrocytes and neuronal cells, as visualized by Oil Red O, von Kossa, alcian blue, anti-Neu N, and anti-Gal C antibody staining, respectively. Immunophenotype analysis of HAM cells revealed the presence of antigens for SSEA-3, SSEA-4, collagen type-I, -II, -III, -IV, -XII, fibronectin, alpha-SMA, vimentin, desmin, cytokeratin18 (CK18), HCAM-1, fibroblast surface protein, and human leukocyte antigen (HLA) ABC. ICAM-1 protein was weakly detectable, and proteins of TRA-1-60, VCAM-1, von Willebrand factor, PECAM-1, and HLA DR were not detected. HAM cells reached senescence after 14.5+/-0.9 passages, over a period of 146.8+/-8.9 days, and underwent an average of 36.9 4.7 population doublings. RT-PCR analysis showed that all four HAM cell lines consistently expressed genes of Oct-4, Rex-1, SCF, NCAM, nestin, BMP-4, GATA-4, HNF-4alpha, vimentin, and CK18, regardless of the passage number. The genes of Brachyury, FGF-5, Pax-6, and BMP2 were never expressed. Strikingly, alpha-fetoprotein (alphaFP), HLA ABC, and HLA DR genes were expressed in an earlier passage but not expressed in later passages. Telomerase activity of two HAM lines was discernable upon the third passage. These observations strongly suggest that HAM might be immune-privileged and, thus, advantageous as therapeutic cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- JiYoung Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Natural Sciences, Seoul Women's University, Nowon-gu, Seoul, Korea.
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16
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Peiffer I, Belhomme D, Barbet R, Haydont V, Zhou YP, Fortunel NO, Li M, Hatzfeld A, Fabiani JN, Hatzfeld JA. Simultaneous differentiation of endothelial and trophoblastic cells derived from human embryonic stem cells. Stem Cells Dev 2007; 16:393-402. [PMID: 17610369 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2006.0013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Here we present a simple two-step in vitro model of vascularized trophoblastic tissue derived from human embryonic stem (hES) cells. The first step is the formation of cystic embryoid bodies (EBs) in suspension in a semisolid methyl cellulose medium, within which an endothelial platelet/endothelial cell adhesion molecule-1 (PECAM-1(+)) cell network develops. In a second step, deposition of these EBs on the bottom of nontreated, polystyrene tissue culture plates, leads by centrifugal outgrowth of the EB to the emergence of an adherent cell layer, with which a PECAM-1(+) network is associated. Cells of this adherent layer expressed VE-cadherin (CD144), PECAM-1 (CD31), and alpha-fetoprotein (alpha-FP). Trophoblastic differentiation was strongly suggested by the secretion of beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (beta-hCG) and by the presence of the cytotrophoblast and syncytiotrophoblast marker GB25. The INSL4 gene, a cyto and syncytio-trophoblast marker, was also highly expressed in the adherent layer, as well as other trophoblast genes such as CGA, CDX1, CDX2, and HAND1, compared to hES cell gene expression taken as reference. In contrast, expression of self-renewal genes, such as TERT, POU5F1, ZFP42, GDF3, and NODAL were decreased. No ectodermal or endodermal genes were expressed, but the mesodermal genes PECAM-1 and GATA2 were. The possibility of removing the EBs during the second step would permit analysis of their relative contribution to angiogenesis or possible hemangioblast formation, compared to that of the trophoblastic adherent layer. This primitive vascularized trophoblastic model could also provide a tool to study early steps of normal and pathological placental development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabelle Peiffer
- Human Stem Cell Laboratory, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, 94801 Villejuif Cedex, France.
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Wang S, Tang X, Niu Y, Chen H, Li B, Li T, Zhang X, Hu Z, Zhou Q, Ji W. Generation and characterization of rabbit embryonic stem cells. Stem Cells 2006; 25:481-9. [PMID: 17038672 DOI: 10.1634/stemcells.2006-0226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
We described the derivation of four stable pluripotent rabbit embryonic stem cell (ESC) lines, one (RF) from blastocysts fertilized in vivo and cultured in vitro and three (RP01, RP02, and RP03) from parthenogenetic blastocysts. These ESC lines have been cultivated for extended periods (RF >1 year, RP01 >8 months, RP02 >8 months, and RP03 >6 months) in vitro while maintaining expression of pluripotent ESC markers and a normal XY or XX karyotype. The ESCs from all lines expressed alkaline phosphatase, transcription factor Oct-4, stage-specific embryonic antigens (SSEA-1, SSEA-3, and SSEA-4), and the tumor-related antigens (TRA-1-60 and TRA-1-81). Similar to human and mouse ESCs, rabbit ESCs expressed pluripotency (Oct-4, Nanog, SOX2, and UTF-1) and signaling pathway genes (fibroblast growth factor, WNT, and transforming growth factor pathway). Morphologically, rabbit ESCs resembled primate ESCs, whereas their proliferation characteristics were more like those seen in mouse ESCs. Rabbit ESCs were induced to differentiate into many cell types in vitro and formed teratomas with derivatives of the three major germ layers in vivo when injected into severe combined immunodeficient mice. Our results showed that pluripotent, stable ESC lines could be derived from fertilized and parthenote-derived rabbit embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shufen Wang
- Kunming Primate Research Center and Kunming Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 32# Jiaochang Donglu, Kunming Yunnan, 650223, China
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18
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Ota S, Hishinuma M, Yamauchi N, Goto A, Morikawa T, Fujimura T, Kitamura T, Kodama T, Aburatani H, Fukayama M. Oncofetal protein glypican-3 in testicular germ-cell tumor. Virchows Arch 2006; 449:308-14. [PMID: 16896894 DOI: 10.1007/s00428-006-0238-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2006] [Accepted: 05/15/2006] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The expression of an oncofetal protein, the glypican-3 (GPC3), was immunohistochemically evaluated in a wide variety of primary testicular germ-cell tumors (GCTs) in comparison with other markers, alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG)-beta, and OCT3/4. Eighty-nine cases of GCT including 22 cases of mixed GCT were evaluated with reference to each tumor component. GPC3 expression was observed in neoplastic cells of yolk-sac tumor (YST) (25/25), teratoma (2/10), components of syncytiotrophoblastic giant cells (STGCs) (10/14), and choriocarcinoma (1/3), but none in intratubular germ-cell neoplasias, unclassified type (0/33), seminomas (0/61), or embryonal carcinoma (0/19). All cases of YST showed diffuse labeling of neoplastic cells in cytoplasmic and membranous patterns, and the positive area of GPC3 was much larger than that of AFP. Glandular structures in teratomas showed GPC3 immunostaining as well as AFP. Although the number of GPC3-positive cells was smaller in STGC components and choriocarcinoma, there was no diffusion artifact in GPC3 immunostaining, as was frequently encountered in hCG-beta staining. Thus, GPC3 is a unique oncofetal protein, which is useful as an immunohistochemical marker for GCT differentiated to extraembryonic tissue, especially YST.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Ota
- Department of Pathology, Graduate School of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Hongo 7-3-1, Bunkyo, Tokyo, 113-0033, Japan.
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19
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Parada C, Gato A, Bueno D. Mammalian embryonic cerebrospinal fluid proteome has greater apolipoprotein and enzyme pattern complexity than the avian proteome. J Proteome Res 2006; 4:2420-8. [PMID: 16335996 DOI: 10.1021/pr050213t] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
During early stages of embryo development, the brain cavity is filled with Embryonic Cerebro-Spinal Fluid, which has an essential role in the survival, proliferation and neurogenesis of the neuroectodermal stem cells. We identified and analyzed the proteome of Embryonic Cerebro-Spinal Fluid from rat embryos (Rattus norvegicus), which includes proteins involved in the regulation of Central Nervous System development. The comparison between mammalian and avian Embryonic Cerebro-Spinal Fluid proteomes reveals great similarity, but also greater complexity in some protein groups. The pattern of apolipoproteins and enzymes in CSF is more complex in the mammals than in birds. This difference may underlie the greater neural complexity and synaptic plasticity found in mammals. Fourteen Embryonic Cerebro-Spinal Fluid gene products were previously identified in adult human Cerebro-Spinal Fluid proteome, and interestingly they are altered in patients with neurodegenerative diseases and/or neurological disorders. Understanding these molecules and the mechanisms they control during embryonic neurogenesis may contribute to our understanding of Central Nervous System development and evolution, and these human diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina Parada
- Departament de Genètica, Facultat de Biologia, Universitat de Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
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20
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Pelikan DM, Kanhai HH, De Groot-Swings GM, Mesker WE, Tanke HJ, Scherjon SA. Fetomaternal hemorrhage in relation to chorionic villus sampling revisited. Prenat Diagn 2006; 26:201-5. [PMID: 16450346 DOI: 10.1002/pd.1364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate whether chorionic villus sampling (CVS) results in a proportional increase of alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and fetal red cells in maternal blood. METHODS Blood samples were collected before and after CVS. The AFP concentration was measured and supervised automated microscopy of Kleihauer-Betke slides was applied to quantify fetal red cells. RESULTS AFP analysis was performed in 53 paired samples and automated microscopic scanning in 59 paired samples. Median AFP concentrations before and after CVS were 12.0 microg/L (range 6.4-36.4) and 18.7 microg/L (range 8.2-668.9), respectively, indicating a significant increase (p < 0.0001). Median numbers of fetal red cells detected before and after CVS were 0 (range 0-36) and 0 (range 0-31), respectively. No significant increase of fetal cells was observed (p = 0.72). The delta (Delta) fetal red cells and the Delta AFP correlated poorly (rho = -0.22, p = 0.11). The amount of villi correlated moderately with the Delta AFP (rho = 0.32, p = 0.02) and did not correlate with the Delta fetal red cells (rho = -0.11, p = 0.43). CONCLUSIONS Although the AFP concentration after CVS increased, no increase of fetal red cells was detected. These findings suggest that CVS results in a leakage of proteins due to placental tissue damage, rather than increased trafficking of fetal cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denise M Pelikan
- Department of Obstetrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.
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21
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Duc-Goiran P, Mignot TM, Robert B, Machavoine F, Mondon F, Hagneré AM, Vacher-Lavenu MC, Danan JL, Vaiman D, Benassayag C, Ferré F. Expression and localization of alpha-fetoprotein mRNA and protein in human early villous trophoblasts. Placenta 2005; 27:812-21. [PMID: 16289667 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2005.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2005] [Revised: 09/10/2005] [Accepted: 09/10/2005] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) is a major plasma protein produced during human fetal life. It is a good marker for several possible disorders affecting gestation. We previously reported that afp gene expression, which takes place mainly in yolk sac and fetal liver, also occurs in normal human placenta, specifically in early pregnancy. The aim of the present study was to determine the precise location of AFP synthesis sites within the placental villi. In situ hybridization and immunohistochemical experiments were performed on sections obtained from placentas of first-trimester and full-term pregnancies. We found that the pattern of afp gene expression was restricted to specific villous trophoblastic areas in early placentas. Both afp transcripts and AFP protein were mainly located in discontinuous regions, at junctions between two villi and at budding sites. In contrast, no AFP expression was detected in the cytotrophoblastic extravillous proliferative zone or in other placental cell types. According to the earlier studies, no AFP synthesis was detected in placental villous tissue from full-term pregnancies, using in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Duc-Goiran
- Université Paris-Descartes/INSERM U.709, Génétique et Epigénétique des Pathologies Placentaires, GEPP, Institut Alfred Jost, Hôpital Cochin, Pavillon Baudelocque, 123 Boulevard de Port-Royal, 75014 Paris, France
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Newby D, Dalgliesh G, Lyall F, Aitken DA. Alphafetoprotein and alphafetoprotein receptor expression in the normal human placenta at term. Placenta 2005; 26:190-200. [PMID: 15708120 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2004.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/21/2004] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Alphafetoprotein (AFP) is detectable in maternal serum from around six weeks of gestation and is synthesised by the yolk sac and the fetal liver. The role of the placenta in the transport and possible synthesis of AFP is uncertain. The aim of this study was to investigate placental expression of AFP and the AFP receptor in uncomplicated pregnancies at term. Immunohistochemistry and Western blotting clearly demonstrated the presence of AFP in villous tissue at term. However, evidence of AFP mRNA expression or synthesis of AFP was not found following reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction of total RNA isolated from villous tissue and trophoblast cell cultures. The presence of a cell surface receptor for AFP in placental villous tissue, identified by immunohistochemistry and Western blotting, suggests a possible receptor-mediated mechanism for placental transport of AFP while the patterns of expression of AFP and its receptor may indicate a possible route by which AFP is transported across the placenta between the fetal and maternal circulations. These findings demonstrate that the placenta does not synthesise AFP at term and that the presence of AFP in the placenta is a reflection of transplacental transport of AFP possibly via a receptor-mediated mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Newby
- Department of Biochemical Genetics, Institute of Medical Genetics, Yorkhill NHS Trust, Glasgow, G3 8SJ, UK
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23
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Ginis I, Luo Y, Miura T, Thies S, Brandenberger R, Gerecht-Nir S, Amit M, Hoke A, Carpenter MK, Itskovitz-Eldor J, Rao MS. Differences between human and mouse embryonic stem cells. Dev Biol 2004; 269:360-80. [PMID: 15110706 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2003.12.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 489] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2003] [Revised: 12/18/2003] [Accepted: 12/18/2003] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
We compared gene expression profiles of mouse and human ES cells by immunocytochemistry, RT-PCR, and membrane-based focused cDNA array analysis. Several markers that in concert could distinguish undifferentiated ES cells from their differentiated progeny were identified. These included known markers such as SSEA antigens, OCT3/4, SOX-2, REX-1 and TERT, as well as additional markers such as UTF-1, TRF1, TRF2, connexin43, and connexin45, FGFR-4, ABCG-2, and Glut-1. A set of negative markers that confirm the absence of differentiation was also developed. These include genes characteristic of trophoectoderm, markers of germ layers, and of more specialized progenitor cells. While the expression of many of the markers was similar in mouse and human cells, significant differences were found in the expression of vimentin, beta-III tubulin, alpha-fetoprotein, eomesodermin, HEB, ARNT, and FoxD3 as well as in the expression of the LIF receptor complex LIFR/IL6ST (gp130). Profound differences in cell cycle regulation, control of apoptosis, and cytokine expression were uncovered using focused microarrays. The profile of gene expression observed in H1 cells was similar to that of two other human ES cell lines tested (line I-6 and clonal line-H9.2) and to feeder-free subclones of H1, H7, and H9, indicating that the observed differences between human and mouse ES cells were species-specific rather than arising from differences in culture conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Ginis
- Stem Cell Section, Laboratory of Neurosciences, National Institute on Aging, NIH, Baltimore, MD 21224, USA
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Mizejewski GJ. Levels of alpha-fetoprotein during pregnancy and early infancy in normal and disease states. Obstet Gynecol Surv 2004; 58:804-26. [PMID: 14668662 DOI: 10.1097/01.ogx.0000099770.97668.18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) was 1 of the first serum protein markers to serve in the dual capacities of tumor marker and fetal defect marker, ie, an oncofetal protein, in the clinical laboratory. Although the serum-marker capacity of AFP has long been used, less is known of the fluid compartments of this oncofetal protein during fetal and perinatal development. In this review, the biologic activities of AFP are discussed in light of its presence in the various biologic fluid compartments: fetal serum, amniotic fluid, cord blood, urine, and maternal serum. AFP concentrations within the biologic fluids are considered in the context of gestational age, sex, body weight, and anatomic location. Discussion follows concerning the relationships and roles of AFP in various developmental disorders such as hypothyroidism, folate deficiencies, autoimmune disorders, acquired immunodeficiency disorder (AIDS), congenital heart defects, cystic fibrosis, preeclampsia/hypertension, and platelet aggregation disorders. Based on its presence in so many types of birth defects, malformations, and congenital anomalies, AFP can be seen to serve as a form of molecular "duct tape" during pregnancy and postnatal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerald J Mizejewski
- Division of Molecular Medicine, Wadsworth Center, New York State Department of Health, Albany 12201, USA.
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