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Cao J, Li H, Tang H, Gu X, Wang Y, Guan D, Du J, Fan Y. Stiff Extracellular Matrix Promotes Invasive Behaviors of Trophoblast Cells. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:bioengineering10030384. [PMID: 36978775 PMCID: PMC10045595 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10030384] [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: 02/12/2023] [Revised: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 03/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The effect of extracellular matrix (ECM) stiffness on embryonic trophoblast cells invasion during mammalian embryo implantation remains largely unknown. In this study, we investigated the effects of ECM stiffness on various aspects of human trophoblast cell behaviors during cell-ECM interactions. The mechanical microenvironment of the uterus was simulated by fabricating polyacrylamide (PA) hydrogels with different levels of stiffness. The human choriocarcinoma (JAR) cell lineage was used as the trophoblast model. We found that the spreading area of JAR cells, the formation of focal adhesions, and the polymerization of the F-actin cytoskeleton were all facilitated with increased ECM stiffness. Significantly, JAR cells also exhibited durotactic behavior on ECM with a gradient stiffness. Meanwhile, stiffness of the ECM affects the invasion of multicellular JAR spheroids. These results demonstrated that human trophoblast cells are mechanically sensitive, while the mechanical properties of the uterine microenvironment could play an important role in the implantation process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jialing Cao
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Nanotechnology for Single Cell Analysis, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing 100083, China
- Sino-French Engineer School, Beihang University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Hangyu Li
- State Key Laboratory of Nonlinear Mechanics, Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
- School of Engineering Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Hongyan Tang
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Nanotechnology for Single Cell Analysis, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Xuenan Gu
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Nanotechnology for Single Cell Analysis, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Yan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Dongshi Guan
- State Key Laboratory of Nonlinear Mechanics, Institute of Mechanics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
- School of Engineering Science, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jing Du
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Nanotechnology for Single Cell Analysis, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing 100083, China
| | - Yubo Fan
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of the Ministry of Education, Institute of Nanotechnology for Single Cell Analysis, Beijing Advanced Innovation Center for Biomedical Engineering, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing 100083, China
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2
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Tsolova AO, Aguilar RM, Maybin JA, Critchley HOD. Pre-clinical models to study abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB). EBioMedicine 2022; 84:104238. [PMID: 36081283 PMCID: PMC9465267 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2022.104238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (AUB) is a common debilitating condition that significantly reduces quality of life of women across the reproductive age span. AUB creates significant morbidity, medical, social, and economic problems for women, their families, workplace, and health services. Despite the profoundly negative effects of AUB on public health, advancement in understanding the pathophysiology of AUB and the discovery of novel effective therapies is slow due to lack of reliable pre-clinical models. This review discusses currently available laboratory-based pre-clinical scientific models and how they are used to study AUB. Human and animal in vitro, ex vivo, and in vivo models will be described along with advantages and limitations of each method.
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3
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Gan L, Li Y, Chen Y, Huang M, Cao J, Cao M, Wang Z, Wan G, Gui T. Transcriptome analysis of eutopic endometrial stromal cells in women with adenomyosis by RNA-sequencing. Bioengineered 2022; 13:12637-12649. [PMID: 35603555 PMCID: PMC9275863 DOI: 10.1080/21655979.2022.2077614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Lin Gan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yongrong Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Suzhou Xiangcheng People’s Hospital, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Meihua Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Laboratory of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Jian Cao
- Department of Gynecology, Women’s Hospital of Nanjing Medical University (Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital), Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Meiling Cao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhihui Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Suzhou Xiangcheng People’s Hospital, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Guiping Wan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Laboratory of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
| | - Tao Gui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Affiliated Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, Jiangsu, China
- Laboratory of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jiangsu Province Academy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Nanjing, China
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Ma L, Zhang M, Cao F, Han J, Han P, Wu Y, Deng R, Zhang G, An X, Zhang L, Song Y, Cao B. Effect of MiR-100-5p on proliferation and apoptosis of goat endometrial stromal cell in vitro and embryo implantation in vivo. J Cell Mol Med 2022; 26:2543-2556. [PMID: 35411593 PMCID: PMC9077292 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.17226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Revised: 01/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The growth of endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) at implantation sites may be a potential factor affecting the success rate of embryo implantation. Incremental proofs demonstrated that ncRNAs (e.g. miRNAs, lncRNAs and circRNAs) were involved in various biological procedures, including proliferation and apoptosis. In this study, the role of miR‐100‐5p on proliferation and apoptosis of goat ESCs in vitro and embryo implantation in vivo was determined. The mRNA expression of miR‐100‐5p was significantly inhibited in the receptive phase (RE) rather than in the pre‐receptive phase (PE). Overexpression of miR‐100‐5p suppressed ESCs proliferation and induced apoptosis. The molecular target of MiR‐100‐5p, HOXA1, was confirmed by 3′‐UTR assays. Meanwhile, the product of HOXA1 mRNA RT‐PCR increased in the RE more than that in the PE. The HOXA1‐siRNA exerted significant negative effects on growth arrest. Instead, incubation of ESCs with miR‐100‐5p inhibitor or overexpressed HOXA1 promoted the cell proliferation. In addition, Circ‐9110 which acted as a sponge for miR‐100‐5p reversed the relevant biological effects of miR‐100‐5p. The intrinsic apoptosis pathway was suppressed in ESCs, revealing a crosstalk between Circ‐9110/miR‐100‐5p/HOXA1 axis, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, and ERK1/2 pathways. To further evaluate the progress in study on embryo implantation regulating mechanism of miR‐100‐5p in vivo, the pinopodes of two phases were observed and analysed, suggesting that, as similar as in situ, miR‐100‐5p was involved in significantly regulating embryo implantation in vivo. Mechanistically, miR‐100‐5p performed its embryo implantation function through regulation of PI3K/AKT/mTOR and ERK1/2 pathways by targeting Circ‐9110/miR‐100‐5p/HOXA1 axis in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Ma
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China.,Shaanxi University of Chinese Medicine, Xianyang, China
| | - Meng Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Fangjun Cao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China.,Shaanxi Institute of Zoology, Xi'an, China
| | - Jincheng Han
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Peng Han
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Yeting Wu
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Renyi Deng
- Department of Foreign Languages, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Guanghui Zhang
- College of Innovation and Experiment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Xiaopeng An
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Yuxuan Song
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Binyun Cao
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
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Rawlings TM, Makwana K, Tryfonos M, Lucas ES. Organoids to model the endometrium: implantation and beyond. REPRODUCTION AND FERTILITY 2022; 2:R85-R101. [PMID: 35118399 PMCID: PMC8801025 DOI: 10.1530/raf-21-0023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite advances in assisted reproductive techniques in the 4 decades since the first human birth after in vitro fertilisation, 1–2% of couples experience recurrent implantation failure, and some will never achieve a successful pregnancy even in the absence of a confirmed dysfunction. Furthermore, 1–2% of couples who do conceive, either naturally or with assistance, will experience recurrent early loss of karyotypically normal pregnancies. In both cases, embryo-endometrial interaction is a clear candidate for exploration. The impossibility of studying implantation processes within the human body has necessitated the use of animal models and cell culture approaches. Recent advances in 3-dimensional modelling techniques, namely the advent of organoids, present an exciting opportunity to elucidate the unanswerable within human reproduction. In this review, we will explore the ontogeny of implantation modelling and propose a roadmap to application and discovery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas M Rawlings
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Komal Makwana
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Maria Tryfonos
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
| | - Emma S Lucas
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK.,Centre for Early Life, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK
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6
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Main actors behind the endometrial receptivity and successful implantation. Tissue Cell 2021; 73:101656. [PMID: 34634636 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2021.101656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 09/21/2021] [Accepted: 09/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Embryo implantation occurs during a short period of time, the implantation window, in the mid-secretory phase of the menstrual cycle. The cross-talk between the endometrium and the embryo, at the stage of blastocyst, is a necessary condition for successful implantation. Till now, no single molecule or receptor has been identified to play an essential role on embryo implantation but a huge number of mediators, including cytokines, lipids, adhesion molecules, growth factors, and others, are reported to support the establishment of pregnancy. Therefore, the aim of this review is not only to describe the different actors involved in the implantation process, but also to try to characterize the relationships between these factors as well as their time-regulated activation. Moreover, the availability of in vitro culture systems to study the interactions between embryo and endometrium as well as the paracrine communication regulated by exosomal vesicles will be investigated, as an innovative approach for a more precise characterization of the interactions between the different molecules involved in this process. The in-depth knowledge of all these complex mechanisms will allow to address the reasons of implantation failure and infertility, thus providing new avenues for promoting the successful establishment of a pregnancy.
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Stejskalová A, Vankelecom H, Sourouni M, Ho MY, Götte M, Almquist BD. In vitro modelling of the physiological and diseased female reproductive system. Acta Biomater 2021; 132:288-312. [PMID: 33915315 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.04.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The maladies affecting the female reproductive tract (FRT) range from infections to endometriosis to carcinomas. In vitro models of the FRT play an increasingly important role in both basic and translational research, since the anatomy and physiology of the FRT of humans and other primates differ significantly from most of the commonly used animal models, including rodents. Using organoid culture to study the FRT has overcome the longstanding hurdle of maintaining epithelial phenotype in culture. Both ECM-derived and engineered materials have proved critical for maintaining a physiological phenotype of FRT cells in vitro by providing the requisite 3D environment, ligands, and architecture. Advanced materials have also enabled the systematic study of factors contributing to the invasive metastatic processes. Meanwhile, microphysiological devices make it possible to incorporate physical signals such as flow and cyclic exposure to hormones. Going forward, advanced materials compatible with hormones and optimised to support FRT-derived cells' long-term growth, will play a key role in addressing the diverse array of FRT pathologies and lead to impactful new treatments that support the improvement of women's health. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: The female reproductive system is a crucial component of the female anatomy. In addition to enabling reproduction, it has wide ranging influence on tissues throughout the body via endocrine signalling. This intrinsic role in regulating normal female biology makes it susceptible to a variety of female-specific diseases. However, the complexity and human-specific features of the reproductive system make it challenging to study. This has spurred the development of human-relevant in vitro models for helping to decipher the complex issues that can affect the reproductive system, including endometriosis, infection, and cancer. In this Review, we cover the current state of in vitro models for studying the female reproductive system, and the key role biomaterials play in enabling their development.
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Hung SW, Zhang R, Tan Z, Chung JPW, Zhang T, Wang CC. Pharmaceuticals targeting signaling pathways of endometriosis as potential new medical treatment: A review. Med Res Rev 2021; 41:2489-2564. [PMID: 33948974 PMCID: PMC8252000 DOI: 10.1002/med.21802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 03/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis (EM) is defined as endometrial tissues found outside the uterus. Growth and development of endometriotic cells in ectopic sites can be promoted via multiple pathways, including MAPK/MEK/ERK, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, NF-κB, Rho/ROCK, reactive oxidative stress, tumor necrosis factor, transforming growth factor-β, Wnt/β-catenin, vascular endothelial growth factor, estrogen, and cytokines. The underlying pathophysiological mechanisms include proliferation, apoptosis, autophagy, migration, invasion, fibrosis, angiogenesis, oxidative stress, inflammation, and immune escape. Current medical treatments for EM are mainly hormonal and symptomatic, and thus the development of new, effective, and safe pharmaceuticals targeting specific molecular and signaling pathways is needed. Here, we systematically reviewed the literature focused on pharmaceuticals that specifically target the molecular and signaling pathways involved in the pathophysiology of EM. Potential drug targets, their upstream and downstream molecules with key aberrant signaling, and the regulatory mechanisms promoting the growth and development of endometriotic cells and tissues were discussed. Hormonal pharmaceuticals, including melatonin, exerts proapoptotic via regulating matrix metallopeptidase activity while nonhormonal pharmaceutical sorafenib exerts antiproliferative effect via MAPK/ERK pathway and antiangiogenesis activity via VEGF/VEGFR pathway. N-acetyl cysteine, curcumin, and ginsenoside exert antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects via radical scavenging activity. Natural products have high efficacy with minimal side effects; for example, resveratrol and epigallocatechin gallate have multiple targets and provide synergistic efficacy to resolve the complexity of the pathophysiology of EM, showing promising efficacy in treating EM. Although new medical treatments are currently being developed, more detailed pharmacological studies and large sample size clinical trials are needed to confirm the efficacy and safety of these treatments in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sze Wan Hung
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
| | - Ruizhe Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and GeneticsThe First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou UniversityZhengzhou
| | - Zhouyurong Tan
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
| | | | - Tao Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
| | - Chi Chiu Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
- Reproduction and Development, Li Ka Shing Institute of Health SciencesThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
- School of Biomedical SciencesThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
- Chinese University of Hong Kong‐Sichuan University Joint Laboratory in Reproductive MedicineThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong
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Vergaro P, Tiscornia G, Zambelli F, Rodríguez A, Santaló J, Vassena R. Trophoblast attachment to the endometrial epithelium elicits compartment-specific transcriptional waves in an in-vitro model. Reprod Biomed Online 2020; 42:26-38. [PMID: 33051136 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2020.08.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Which are the early compartment-specific transcriptional responses of the trophoblast and the endometrial epithelium throughout early attachment during implantation? DESIGN An endometrial epithelium proxy (cell line Ishikawa) was co-cultured with spheroids of a green fluorescent protein (GFP) expressing trophoblast cell line (JEG-3). After 0, 8 and 24 h of co-culture, the compartments were sorted by fluorescence-activated cell sorting; GFP+ (trophoblast), GFP- (epithelium) and non-co-cultured control populations were analysed (in triplicate) by RNA-seq and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). RESULTS Trophoblast challenge induced a wave of transcriptional changes in the epithelium that resulted in 295 differentially regulated genes involving epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), cell movement, apoptosis, hypoxia, inflammation, allograft rejection, myogenesis and cell signalling at 8 h. Interestingly, many of the enriched pathways were subsequently de-enriched by 24 h (i.e. EMT, cell movement, allograft rejection, myogenesis and cell signalling). In the trophoblast, the co-culture induced more transcriptional changes and regulation of a variety of pathways. A total of 1247 and 481 genes were differentially expressed after 8 h and from 8 to 24 h, respectively. Angiogenesis and hypoxia were over-represented at both stages, while EMT and cell signalling only were at 8 h; from 8 to 24 h, inflammation and oestrogen response were enriched, while proliferation was under-represented. CONCLUSIONS Successful attachment produced a series of dynamic changes in gene expression, characterized by an overall early and transient transcriptional up-regulation in the receptive epithelium, in contrast to a more dynamic transcriptional response in the trophoblast.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Vergaro
- Clínica EUGIN Barcelona, Spain; Facultat de Biociències, Unitat de Biologia Cel•lular, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gustavo Tiscornia
- Clínica EUGIN Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigação em Biomedicina (CBMR), Universidade do Algarve, Portugal
| | | | | | - Josep Santaló
- Facultat de Biociències, Unitat de Biologia Cel•lular, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Spain
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Alzamil L, Nikolakopoulou K, Turco MY. Organoid systems to study the human female reproductive tract and pregnancy. Cell Death Differ 2020; 28:35-51. [PMID: 32494027 PMCID: PMC7852529 DOI: 10.1038/s41418-020-0565-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Revised: 04/24/2020] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Both the proper functioning of the female reproductive tract (FRT) and normal placental development are essential for women’s health, wellbeing, and pregnancy outcome. The study of the FRT in humans has been challenging due to limitations in the in vitro and in vivo tools available. Recent developments in 3D organoid technology that model the different regions of the FRT include organoids of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, endometrium and cervix, as well as placental trophoblast. These models are opening up new avenues to investigate the normal biology and pathology of the FRT. In this review, we discuss the advances, potential, and limitations of organoid cultures of the human FRT. ■. ![]()
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Affiliation(s)
- Lama Alzamil
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1QP, UK
| | | | - Margherita Y Turco
- Department of Pathology, University of Cambridge, Tennis Court Road, Cambridge, CB2 1QP, UK. .,Centre for Trophoblast Research, Downing Street, Cambridge, CB2 3EG, UK.
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11
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Guo C, Kong F, Lv Y, Gao N, Xiu X, Sun X. CDC20 inhibitor Apcin inhibits embryo implantation in vivo and in vitro. Cell Biochem Funct 2020; 38:810-816. [PMID: 32458533 PMCID: PMC7496523 DOI: 10.1002/cbf.3550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2020] [Revised: 04/09/2020] [Accepted: 04/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
For successful implantation, endometrial receptivity must be established. The high expression of CDC20 in many kinds of malignant tumours has been reported, and it is related to the occurrence and development of tumours. According to these functions, we think that CDC20 may also play important roles in the process of embryo implantation. To prove our hypothesis, we observed the distribution and expression of CDC20 in mouse and human early pregnancy. The effect of E2 and/or P4 on the expression of CDC20 in human endometrial cells was detected by Western blot. To further explore whether CDC20 is an important factor in adhesion and proliferation. The results showed that the expression of CDC20 in the uterus and menstrual cycle of early pregnant mice was spatiotemporal. E2 can promote the expression of CDC20. On the contrary, P4 and E2 + P4 inhibited the expression of CDC20. We also detected the proliferation and adhesion of human endometrial cells. We found that the inhibition of CDC20 with its inhibitor Apcin could reduce the adhesion rate and proliferation ability to RL95‐2 and HEC‐1A cells, respectively. Inhibiting CDC20 by Apcin could interfere the embryo implantation of mouse. It is suggested that CDC20 may play an important role in the process of embryo implantation. Significance of the study Embryo implantation is an extremely complex and delicate process, including identification, localisation, adhesion and invasion between embryo and endometrium. Studies have shown the process of embryo implantation is very similar to that of tumour invasion. CDC20 is a cancer‐promoting factor. We found CDC20 is spatially and spatially expressed in mouse and human menstrual cycles and is regulated by oestrogen and progesterone. Apcin can inhibit the adhesion of JAR cells and embryo implantation of mouse. CDC20 may provide a new way to improve the success rate of assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuanjia Guo
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Fandou Kong
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Yunyi Lv
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Na Gao
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Xiaoxin Xiu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
| | - Xiaojing Sun
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, First Affiliated Hospital of Dalian Medical University, Dalian, China
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12
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Tissue-engineered multi-cellular models of the uterine wall. Biomech Model Mechanobiol 2020; 19:1629-1639. [PMID: 31997029 DOI: 10.1007/s10237-020-01296-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The human uterus is composed of three layers: endometrium, myometrium and perimetrium. It remodels during the monthly menstrual cycle and more significantly during the complex stages of reproduction. In vivo studies of the human uterine wall are yet incomplete due to ethical and technical limitations. The objective of this study was to develop in vitro uterine wall models that mimic the in vivo structure in humans. We co-cultured multiple cellular models of endometrial epithelial cells, endometrial stromal cells and smooth muscle cells on a synthetic membrane mounted in multi-purpose custom-designed wells. Immunofluorescence staining and confocal imaging confirmed that the new model represents the in vivo anatomical architecture of the inner uterine wall. Hormonal treatment with progesterone and β-estradiol demonstrated increased expression of progestogen-associated endometrial protein, which is associated with the in vivo receptive uterus. The new tissue-engineered in vitro models of the uterine wall will enable deeper investigation of molecular and biomechanical aspects of the blastocyst-uterus interaction during the window of implantation.
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13
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New Insights into the Process of Placentation and the Role of Oxidative Uterine Microenvironment. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2019; 2019:9174521. [PMID: 31341539 PMCID: PMC6615000 DOI: 10.1155/2019/9174521] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2019] [Accepted: 05/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
For a successful pregnancy to occur, a predecidualized receptive endometrium must be invaded by placental differentiated cells (extravillous trophoblast cells (EVTs)) and, at the same time, continue decidualization. EVT invasion is aimed at anchoring the placenta to the maternal uterus and ensuring local blood supply increase necessary to provide normal placental and foetal development. The first is achieved by migrating through the maternal endometrium and deeper into the myometrium, while the second by transforming uterine spiral arteries into large vessels. This process is a tightly regulated battle comprising interests of both the mother and the foetus. Invading EVTs are required to perform a scope of functions: move, adhere, proliferate, differentiate, interact, and digest the extracellular matrix (ECM); tolerate hypoxia; transform the maternal spiral arteries; and die by apoptosis. All these functions are modulated by their surrounding microenvironment: oxygen, soluble factors (e.g., cytokines, growth factors, and hormones), ECM proteins, and reactive oxygen species. A deeper comprehension of oxidative uterine microenvironment contribution to trophoblast function will be addressed in this review.
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Cui D, Sui L, Han X, Zhang M, Guo Z, Chen W, Yu X, Sun Q, Dong M, Ma T, Kong Y. Aquaporin-3 mediates ovarian steroid hormone-induced motility of endometrial epithelial cells. Hum Reprod 2019; 33:2060-2073. [PMID: 30285121 PMCID: PMC6195804 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dey290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2017] [Accepted: 09/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION How does aquaporin-3 (AQP3) affect endometrial receptivity? SUMMARY ANSWER AQP3, which is regulated by the combination and estrogen (E2) and progesterone (P4), induces epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of endometrial epithelial cells. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Embryo implantation is an extremely complex process, and endometrial receptivity is essential for successful embryo implantation. Estrogen and progesterone regulate endometrial receptivity. AQP3, which is regulated by estrogen (E2), increases cell migration and invasion ability by regulating the expression of EMT-related factors and influencing the reorganization of the actin cytoskeleton. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This study investigated the pathophysiological significance of AQP3 in human endometrial function during different phases of the menstrual cycle. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS AQP3 expression levels during different phases of the menstrual cycle were measured using immunohistochemical assays. In cells of different receptivity (high-receptive RL95-2 cells and low-receptive HEC-1A cells), the expression of AQP3 was measured using western blotting, qRT-PCR and immunofluorescence assays. Activities of AQP3, and its regulation by E2 and P4, were studied through in-vitro experiments using RL95-2 cells. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE AQP3 expression in the mid- and late-secretory phases of the human endometrium is significantly higher than in other phases. Since AQP3 expression levels were higher in RL95-2 cells than in HEC-1A cells, mechanisms of AQP3 regulation by E2 and P4 were studied using RL95-2 cells. We provided the first report that P4 up-regulates AQP3 by directly targeting the promoter of the AQP3 gene. The up-regulation of AQP3 expression by a combination of E2 and P4 is significantly higher than that caused by either E2 or P4 alone. Together E2 and P4 promote RL95-2 cell migration and invasion by inducing EMT through AQP3. We also found that AQP3 co-localizes with ezrin and affects the formation of filopodia and lamellipodia during the E2 and P4-induced EMT process but has no effect on the expression of ezrin and F-actin. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION It is still unclear whether AQP3 is a main regulator of endometrial receptivity or one of several factors influencing the process. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Further investigation on AQP3 may contribute to a greater understanding of endometrial receptivity. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by the National Natural Scientific Grants of China (No. 31570798), the Program for Liaoning Excellent Talents in University (LR2017042), the Doctoral Scientific Research Foundation of Liaoning province (201601236), and the Liaoning Provincial Program for Top Discipline of Basic Medical Sciences. There are no conflicts of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Cui
- Core Lab Glycobiol & Glycoengn,college of Basic Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian , Liaoning, China
| | - Linlin Sui
- Core Lab Glycobiol & Glycoengn,college of Basic Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian , Liaoning, China
| | - Xiao Han
- Core Lab Glycobiol & Glycoengn,college of Basic Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian , Liaoning, China
| | - Man Zhang
- Core Lab Glycobiol & Glycoengn,college of Basic Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian , Liaoning, China
| | - Zhenzhen Guo
- Core Lab Glycobiol & Glycoengn,college of Basic Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian , Liaoning, China
| | - Wanfang Chen
- Core Lab Glycobiol & Glycoengn,college of Basic Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian , Liaoning, China
| | - Xinxin Yu
- Core Lab Glycobiol & Glycoengn,college of Basic Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian , Liaoning, China
| | - Qiannan Sun
- Core Lab Glycobiol & Glycoengn,college of Basic Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian , Liaoning, China
| | - Ming Dong
- Core Lab Glycobiol & Glycoengn,college of Basic Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian , Liaoning, China
| | - Tonghui Ma
- Core Lab Glycobiol & Glycoengn,college of Basic Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian , Liaoning, China
| | - Ying Kong
- Core Lab Glycobiol & Glycoengn,college of Basic Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian , Liaoning, China
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Jalali BM, Likszo P, Andronowska A, Skarzynski DJ. Alterations in the distribution of actin and its binding proteins in the porcine endometrium during early pregnancy: Possible role in epithelial remodeling and embryo adhesion. Theriogenology 2018; 116:17-27. [PMID: 29763784 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2017] [Revised: 05/02/2018] [Accepted: 05/06/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
During early pregnancy, uterine epithelial cells undergo major transformations in their cytoskeleton that make the endometrium receptive for conceptus attachment. Actin binding proteins (ABPs) such as cofilin, gelsolin, and vinculin are involved in regulating actin polymerization, severing or crosslinking actin to integrins. However, whether ABPs are involved in epithelial remodeling or embryo adhesion in pigs is unknown. Therefore, the expression and distribution of these proteins were investigated in porcine endometrium on Days 10 and 13 (pre-implantation period), and 16 (attachment phase) of the estrous cycle or pregnancy. While day and pregnancy status had no effect on ABP gene expression, the protein abundance of vinculin was significantly higher on Day 13 than on Day 10 (p < 0.05) of the estrous cycle, and its abundance was highest on Day 16 in the pregnant endometrium. Immunofluorescent staining showed alterations in the distribution of these proteins depending on the day of the estrous cycle or early pregnancy examined. Double immunofluorescent staining for the ABPs and actin revealed that while cofilin co-localized with actin in the apical epithelium on Days 13 and 16 of the estrous cycle, in pregnant animals, it was strongly associated with actin in the sub-epithelial stroma of the endometrium. Gelsolin was also co-localized with actin in the apical epithelium on Days 13 and 16 of the estrous cycle, but this association was absent in the pregnant endometrium. Vinculin co-localized with actin in the sub-epithelial stroma on Days 13 and 16 irrespective of the reproductive status, but was additionally associated with actin in the apical epithelium on Day 16 of pregnancy. Vinculin interacted with phosphorylated focal adhesion kinase in the endometrial epithelium, and the interaction was dependent on estradiol-17β, a conceptus-secreted pregnancy-recognition factor in pigs. Furthermore, silencing vinculin in the endometrial epithelial cells negatively affected trophoblast adhesion to them. In conclusion, the influence of stage and reproductive status on the specific localization of actin and its binding proteins in the porcine endometrium suggests that they play a role in regulating the endometrial cytoskeleton. Moreover, vinculin may facilitate conceptus attachment to the epithelium by interacting with focal adhesion kinase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beenu Moza Jalali
- Division of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of Polish Academy of Sciences, Tuwima 10, 10-748 Olsztyn, Poland.
| | - Pawel Likszo
- Division of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of Polish Academy of Sciences, Tuwima 10, 10-748 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Aneta Andronowska
- Division of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of Polish Academy of Sciences, Tuwima 10, 10-748 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Dariusz J Skarzynski
- Division of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of Polish Academy of Sciences, Tuwima 10, 10-748 Olsztyn, Poland
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Sirohi VK, Gupta K, Kumar R, Shukla V, Dwivedi A. Selective estrogen receptor modulator ormeloxifene suppresses embryo implantation via inducing miR-140 and targeting insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor in rat uterus. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2018; 178:272-282. [PMID: 29330027 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2018.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2017] [Revised: 12/01/2017] [Accepted: 01/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Ormeloxifene, the non-steroidal SERM contraceptive, inhibits endometrial receptivity and embryo implantation via countering nidatory estrogen. However, the molecular mechanism of ormeloxifene action responsible for its contraceptive efficacy still remains unclear. Herein, we aimed to identify the miRNAs modulated under the influence of ormeloxifene and to explore their role in endometrial receptivity and embryo implantation. By doing microRNA sequencing analysis, a total of 168 miRNAs were found to be differentially expressed in uterine tissue of ormeloxifene-treated rats, on day 5 (10:00 h) of pregnancy i.e. peri-implantation period. Out of differentially expressed miRNAs, miR-140 expression was found to be elevated in ormeloxifene administered groups and was selected for detailed investigation. In-vivo gain-of-function of miR-140 resulted in a significant reduction of implantation sites indicating its role in embryo implantation. The experiment on delayed implantation showed that estradiol caused down-regulation of miR-140. It also suppressed the attachment and outgrowth of BeWo spheroids to RL95-2 endometrial cells. In transwell migration assay, miR-140 was found to be involved in suppression of migration and invasion of endometrial epithelial cells. The ormeloxifene treatment caused up-regulation of miR-140 along with down-regulated expression of its target IGF1R in endometrial epithelial and stromal cells which also led to the suppression of downstream effectors integrin β3 and FAK. In mimic miR-140 receiving horn, the reduced expression of IGF1R was observed along with suppressed downstream integrin β3 and FAK similar to that observed in uteri of ormeloxifene- treated rats. Taken together, these findings suggest that ormeloxifene-induced inhibition of embryo implantation occurs via inducing miR-140 and altering its target IGF1R in rat uterus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vijay Kumar Sirohi
- Division of Endocrinology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
| | - Kanchan Gupta
- Division of Endocrinology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
| | - Rohit Kumar
- Division of Endocrinology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
| | - Vinay Shukla
- Division of Endocrinology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
| | - Anila Dwivedi
- Division of Endocrinology, CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India.
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Dorostghoal M, Ghaffari HOA, Shahbazian N, Mirani M. Endometrial expression of β3 integrin, calcitonin and plexin-B1 in the window of implantation in women with unexplained infertility. Int J Reprod Biomed 2017. [DOI: 10.29252/ijrm.15.1.33] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
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Mannelli C, Ietta F, Avanzati AM, Skarzynski D, Paulesu L. Biological Tools to Study the Effects of Environmental Contaminants at the Feto-Maternal Interface. Dose Response 2015; 13:1559325815611902. [PMID: 26740808 PMCID: PMC4679191 DOI: 10.1177/1559325815611902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The identification of reproductive toxicants is a major scientific challenge for human health. Prenatal life is the most vulnerable and important time span of human development. For obvious ethical reasons, in vivo models cannot be used in human pregnancy, and animal models do not perfectly reflect human physiology. This review describes the in vitro test models representative of the human feto-maternal interface and the effects of environmental chemicals with estrogen-like activity, mainly bisphenol A and para-nonylphenol, with a particular emphasis on the effects at low, nontoxic doses similar to concentrations commonly detected in the population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Mannelli
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
- Department of Reproductive Immunology and Pathology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Francesca Ietta
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | | | - Dariusz Skarzynski
- Department of Reproductive Immunology and Pathology, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Luana Paulesu
- Department of Life Sciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
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Pence JC, Clancy KBH, Harley BAC. The induction of pro-angiogenic processes within a collagen scaffold via exogenous estradiol and endometrial epithelial cells. Biotechnol Bioeng 2015; 112:2185-94. [PMID: 25944769 DOI: 10.1002/bit.25622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2015] [Accepted: 04/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Nutrient transport remains a major limitation in the design of biomaterials. One approach to overcome this constraint is to incorporate features to induce angiogenesis-mediated microvasculature formation. Angiogenesis requires a temporal presentation of both pro- and anti-angiogenic factors to achieve stable vasculature, leading to increasingly complex biomaterial design scheme. The endometrium, the lining of the uterus and site of embryo implantation, exemplifies a non-pathological model of rapid growth, shedding, and re-growth of dense vascular networks regulated by the dynamic actions of estradiol and progesterone. In this study, we examined the individual and combined response of endometrial epithelial cells and human umbilical vein endothelial cells to exogenous estradiol within a three-dimensional collagen scaffold. While endothelial cells did not respond to exogenous estradiol, estradiol directly stimulated endometrial epithelial cell transduction pathways and resulted in dose-dependent increases in endogenous VEGF production. Co-culture experiments using conditioned media demonstrated estradiol stimulation of endometrial epithelial cells can induce functional changes in endothelial cells within the collagen biomaterial. We also report the effect of direct endometrial epithelial and endothelial co-culture as well as covalent immobilization of estradiol within the collagen biomaterial. These efforts establish the suitability of an endometrial-inspired model for promoting pro-angiogenic events within regenerative medicine applications. These results also suggest the potential for developing biomaterial-based models of the endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacquelyn C Pence
- Department of Chemical Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois
| | - Kathryn B H Clancy
- Department of Anthropology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois
| | - Brendan A C Harley
- Department of Chemical Biomolecular Engineering, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois. .,Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois, 61801.
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20
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Schutte SC, James CO, Sidell N, Taylor RN. Tissue-engineered endometrial model for the study of cell-cell interactions. Reprod Sci 2014; 22:308-15. [PMID: 25031317 DOI: 10.1177/1933719114542008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Endometrial stromal and epithelial cell cross talk is known to influence many of the dynamic changes that occur during the menstrual cycle. We modified our previous model and embedded telomerase-immortalized human endometrial stromal cells and Ishikawa adenocarcinoma epithelial cells in a collagen-Matrigel hydrogel to create a tissue-engineered model of the endometrium. Comparisons of single and cocultured cells examined communication between endometrial stromal and epithelial cells, which were cultured with 0 or 10 nmol/L 17β estradiol; conditioned medium was used to look at the production of paracrine factors. Using this model, we were able to identify the changes in interleukin 6 (IL-6) and active matrix metalloproteinase 2, which appear to be due to paracrine signaling and differences in transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) that do not appear to be due to paracrine signaling. Moreover, IL-6, TGF-β1, and DNA content were also affected by the presence of estradiol in many of the tissues. These results indicate that paracrine and endocrine signaling are involved in human endometrial responses and support the use of coculture models to further investigate cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stacey C Schutte
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Christopher O James
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Neil Sidell
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Robert N Taylor
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
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21
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Schmitz C, Yu L, Bocca S, Anderson S, Cunha-Filho JS, Rhavi BS, Oehninger S. Role for the endometrial epithelial protein MFG-E8 and its receptor integrin αvβ3 in human implantation: results of an in vitro trophoblast attachment study using established human cell lines. Fertil Steril 2014; 101:874-82. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2013.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2013] [Revised: 11/29/2013] [Accepted: 12/05/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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22
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Srivastava A, Sengupta J, Kriplani A, Roy KK, Ghosh D. Profiles of cytokines secreted by isolated human endometrial cells under the influence of chorionic gonadotropin during the window of embryo implantation. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2013; 11:116. [PMID: 24345207 PMCID: PMC3878507 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-11-116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2013] [Accepted: 12/10/2013] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several studies have indicated that human pre-implantation embryo-derived chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) may influence the implantation process by its action on human endometrial epithelial and stromal cells. Despite reports indicating that hCG acts on these cells to affect the production of several cytokines and growth factors (e.g., MIF, IGF-I, VEGF, LIF, IL-11, GMCSF, CXL10 and FGF2), our understanding of the integral influence of hCG on paracrine interactions between endometrial stromal and epithelial cells during implantation is very limited. METHODS In the present study, we examined the profile of 48 cytokines in the conditioned media of primary cell cultures of human implantation stage endometrium. Endometrial epithelial cells (group 1; n = 20), stromal cells (group 2; n = 20), and epithelial plus stromal cells (group 3; n = 20) obtained from mid-secretory stage endometrial samples (n = 60) were grown on collagen and exposed to different doses (0, 1, 10 and 100 IU/ml) of rhCG for 24 h in vitro. Immunochemical and qRT-PCR methods were used to determine cytokine profiles. Enrichment and process networks analyses were implemented using a list of cytokines showing differential secretion in response to hCG. RESULTS Under basal conditions, endometrial epithelial and stromal cells exhibited cell type-specific profiles of secreted cytokines. Administration of hCG (100 IU) resulted in significantly (P < 0.05) different cytokine secretion profiles indicative of macropinocytic transport (HGF, MCSF) in epithelial cells, signal transduction (CCL4, FGF2, IL-1b, IL-6, IL-17, VEGF) in stromal cells, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (FGF2, HGF, IL-1b, TNF) in mixed cells. Overall, the administration of hCG affected cytokines involved in the immune response, chemotaxis, inflammatory changes, proliferation, cell adhesion and apoptosis. CONCLUSIONS CG can influence the function of the endometrium during blastocyst implantation via its differential action on endometrial epithelial and stromal cells. CG may also affect complex paracrine processes in the different endometrial cell types.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akhilesh Srivastava
- Department of Physiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Jayasree Sengupta
- Department of Physiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
- Present address: Department of Physiology, North DMC Medical College, Hindu Rao Hospital, New Delhi 110007, India
| | - Alka Kriplani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Kallol K Roy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Debabrata Ghosh
- Department of Physiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
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Reprint of: In-vitro model systems for the study of human embryo–endometrium interactions. Reprod Biomed Online 2013; 27:673-88. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2013.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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24
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Weimar CHE, Post Uiterweer ED, Teklenburg G, Heijnen CJ, Macklon NS. In-vitro model systems for the study of human embryo-endometrium interactions. Reprod Biomed Online 2013; 27:461-76. [PMID: 24055530 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2013.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2012] [Revised: 07/27/2013] [Accepted: 08/01/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Implantation requires highly orchestrated interactions between the developing embryo and maternal endometrium. The association between abnormal implantation and reproductive failure is evident, both in normal pregnancy and in assisted reproduction patients. Failure of implantation is the pregnancy rate-limiting step in assisted reproduction, but, as yet, empirical interventions have largely failed to address this problem. Better understanding of the mechanisms underlying human embryo-endometrium signalling is a prerequisite for the further improvement of assisted reproduction outcomes and the development of effective interventions to prevent early pregnancy loss. Studying human embryo implantation is challenging since in-vivo experiments are impractical and unethical, and studies in animal models do not always translate well to humans. However, in recent years in-vitro models have been shown to provide a promising way forward. This review discusses the principal models used to study early human embryo development and initial stages of implantation in vitro. While each model has limitations, exploiting these models will improve understanding of the molecular mechanisms and embryo-endometrium cross-talk at the early implantation site. They provide valuable tools to study early embryo development and pathophysiology of reproductive disorders and have revealed novel disease mechanisms such as the role of epigenetic modifications in recurrent miscarriage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte H E Weimar
- Laboratory of Neuroimmunology and Developmental Origins of Disease (NIDOD), University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 EA Utrecht, The Netherlands; Department of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecology, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 EA Utrecht, The Netherlands.
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Ho H, Nero TL, Singh H, Parker MW, Nie G. PEGylation of a proprotein convertase peptide inhibitor for vaginal route of drug delivery: in vitro bioactivity, stability and in vivo pharmacokinetics. Peptides 2012; 38:266-74. [PMID: 23000303 DOI: 10.1016/j.peptides.2012.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2012] [Revised: 09/03/2012] [Accepted: 09/04/2012] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Uterine proprotein convertase (PC) 6 is critical for embryo implantation in mice and women. It is also one of the PC family members that play a vital role in HIV infectivity. We hypothesized that inhibiting PC6 in the female reproductive tract (vagina, cervix and uterus), may protect women from both pregnancy and HIV infection. One key requirement to prove this concept in an animal model is a vaginally deliverable PC6 inhibitor. Nona-D-arginine (Poly R) is a potent peptide PC inhibitor and is able to inhibit HIV in cell culture. We modified Poly R by PEGylation with different strategies and determined their biochemical properties in vitro and in vivo. PEGylation at the C-terminus, regardless of the PEG size (30 kDa or 1239 Da) did not compromise the inhibitory potency of Poly R. In contrast, PEGylation at both termini (1239 Da) dramatically reduced its inhibitory activity. Poly R and C-PEGylated Poly Rs also showed equal potency in inhibiting a PC6-dependent cellular process critical for embryo implantation. Poly R and the equipotent C-PEGylated Poly Rs were further tested for their serum stability in vitro and pharmacokinetics in vivo following vaginal administration in mice. All Poly Rs were equally stable in mouse serum in vitro for 24h; C-PEGylated Poly Rs showed enhanced vaginal absorption and penetration across the vaginal mucosa/epithelium. This is the first report that C-terminal PEGylation significantly enhances the therapeutic properties of Poly R for vaginal drug delivery. Our findings also provide important insights into future design of Poly R derivatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiting Ho
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
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26
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Ho H, Singh H, Aljofan M, Nie G. A high-throughput in vitro model of human embryo attachment. Fertil Steril 2012; 97:974-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2012.01.116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2011] [Revised: 01/06/2012] [Accepted: 01/24/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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