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Li W, Zhu J, Li J, Jiang Y, Sun J, Xu Y, Pan H, Zhou Y, Zhu J. Research advances of tissue-derived extracellular vesicles in cancers. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2024; 150:184. [PMID: 38598014 PMCID: PMC11006789 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-05596-z] [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: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 12/23/2023] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Extracellular vesicles (EVs) can mediate cell-to-cell communication and affect various physiological and pathological processes in both parent and recipient cells. Currently, extensive research has focused on the EVs derived from cell cultures and various body fluids. However, insufficient attention has been paid to the EVs derived from tissues. Tissue EVs can reflect the microenvironment of the specific tissue and the cross-talk of communication among different cells, which can provide more accurate and comprehensive information for understanding the development and progression of diseases. METHODS We review the state-of-the-art technologies involved in the isolation and purification of tissue EVs. Then, the latest research progress of tissue EVs in the mechanism of tumor occurrence and development is presented. And finally, the application of tissue EVs in the clinical diagnosis and treatment of cancer is anticipated. RESULTS We evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of various tissue processing and EVs isolation methods, and subsequently analyze the significance of protein characterization in determining the purity of tissue EVs. Furthermore, we focus on outlining the importance of EVs derived from tumor and adipose tissues in tumorigenesis and development, as well as their potential applications in early tumor diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment. CONCLUSION When isolating and characterizing tissue EVs, the most appropriate protocol needs to be specified based on the characteristics of different tissues. Tissue EVs are valuable in the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of tumors, and the potential risks associated with tissue EVs need to be considered as therapeutic agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Li
- Jiading District Central Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, 201800, People's Republic of China
- Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, 201318, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingyao Zhu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiayuan Li
- Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, 201318, People's Republic of China
| | - Yiyun Jiang
- Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, 201318, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiuai Sun
- Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, 201318, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan Xu
- Research Laboratory for Functional Nanomaterial, National Engineering Research Center for Nanotechnology, Shanghai, 200241, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongzhi Pan
- Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Shanghai, 201318, People's Republic of China.
- Shanghai University of Medicine and Health Sciences Affiliated Zhoupu Hospital, Shanghai, 200120, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yan Zhou
- Department of Radiology, Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200127, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jun Zhu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, People's Republic of China.
- Research Laboratory for Functional Nanomaterial, National Engineering Research Center for Nanotechnology, Shanghai, 200241, People's Republic of China.
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Graf I, Urbschat C, Arck PC. The 'communicatome' of pregnancy: spotlight on cellular and extravesicular chimerism. EMBO Mol Med 2024; 16:700-714. [PMID: 38467841 PMCID: PMC11018796 DOI: 10.1038/s44321-024-00045-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Communication via biological mediators between mother and fetus are key to reproductive success and offspring's future health. The repertoire of mediators coding signals between mother and fetus is broad and includes soluble factors, membrane-bound particles and immune as well as non-immune cells. Based on the emergence of technological advancements over the last years, considerable progress has been made toward deciphering the "communicatome" between fetus and mother during pregnancy and even after birth. In this context, pregnancy-associated chimerism has sparked the attention among immunologists, since chimeric cells-although low in number-are maintained in the allogeneic host (mother or fetus) for years after birth. Other non-cellular structures of chimerism, e.g. extracellular vesicles (EVs), are increasingly recognized as modulators of pregnancy outcome and offspring's health. We here discuss the origin, distribution and function of pregnancy-acquired microchimerism and chimeric EVs in mother and offspring. We also highlight the pioneering concept of maternal microchimeric cell-derived EVs in offspring. Such insights expand the understanding of pregnancy-associated health or disease risks in mother and offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Graf
- Division of Experimental Feto-Maternal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Hamburg Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Christopher Urbschat
- Division of Experimental Feto-Maternal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
- Hamburg Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
| | - Petra C Arck
- Division of Experimental Feto-Maternal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
- Hamburg Center for Translational Immunology, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany.
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3
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Zhang Y, Tang Y, Chen X, Sun X, Zhao M, Chen Q. Therapeutic potential of miRNAs in placental extracellular vesicles in ovarian and endometrial cancer. Hum Cell 2024; 37:285-296. [PMID: 37801261 DOI: 10.1007/s13577-023-00986-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
There is a cross-link between the placenta and cancer development, as the placenta is grown as a highly invasive tumour-like organ. However, placental development is strictly controlled. Although the underlying mechanism of this control is largely unknown, it is now well-recognised that extracellular vesicles (EVs) released from the placenta play an important role in controlling placenta proliferation and invasion, as placental EVs have shown their effect on regulating maternal adaptation. Better understanding the tumour-like mechanism of the placenta could help to develop a therapeutic potential in cancers. In this study, by RNA sequencing of placental EVs, 20 highly expressed microRNAs (miRNAs) in placental EVs were selected and analysed for their functions on ovarian and endometrial cancer. There were up to seven enriched miRNAs, including miRNA-199a-3p, miRNA-143-3p, and miRNA-519a-5p in placental EVs showing effects on the inhibition of ovarian and endometrial cancer cell proliferation and migration, and promotion of cancer cell death, reported in the literature. Most of these miRNAs have been reported to be downregulated in ovarian and endometrial cancer. Transfection of ovarian and endometrial cancer cells with mimics of miRNA-199a-3p, miRNA-143-3p, and miRNA-519a-5p significantly reduced the cell viability. Our findings could provide strategies for using these naturally occurring miRNAs to develop a novel method to treat ovarian and endometrial cancer in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Yunhui Tang
- Department of Family Planning, The Hospital of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinyue Chen
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Xinyi Sun
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Min Zhao
- Department of Gynaecological Cancer, Wuxi School of Medicine, Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Jiangnan University, Wuxi, Jiangsu, China.
| | - Qi Chen
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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4
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Feng Y, Lau S, Chen Q, Oyston C, Groom K, Barrett CJ, Chamley LW. Normotensive placental extracellular vesicles provide long-term protection against hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2023:S0002-9378(23)02189-0. [PMID: 38158074 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2023.12.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women with normotensive pregnancy are at a reduced risk of developing cardiovascular disease postpartum compared with those who experience hypertensive conditions during pregnancy. However, the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. During normotensive pregnancy, vast numbers of placental extracellular vesicles are released into the maternal circulation, which protect endothelial cells from activation and alter maternal vascular tone. We hypothesized that placental extracellular vesicles play a mechanistic role in lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease following normotensive pregnancy. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate the long-term effects of placental extracellular vesicles derived from normotensive term placentae on the cardiovascular system and explore the mechanisms underlying their biological effects. STUDY DESIGN Spontaneously hypertensive rats were injected with placental extracellular vesicles from normotensive term pregnancies (2 mg/kg each time, n=8) or vehicle control (n=9) at 3 months of age. Blood pressure and cardiac function were regularly monitored from 3 months to 15 months of age. The response of mesenteric resistance arteries to vasoactive substances was investigated to evaluate vascular function. Cardiac remodeling, small artery remodeling, and renal function were investigated to comprehensively assess the impact of placental extracellular vesicles on cardiovascular and renal health. RESULTS Compared with vehicle-treated control animals, rats treated with normotensive placental extracellular vesicles exhibited a significantly lower increase in blood pressure and improved cardiac function. Furthermore, the vasodilator response to the endothelium-dependent agonist acetylcholine was significantly enhanced in the normotensive placental extracellular vesicle-treated spontaneously hypertensive rats compared with the control. Moreover, treatment with placental extracellular vesicles reduced wall thickening of small renal vessels and attenuated renal fibrosis. CONCLUSION Placental extracellular vesicles from normotensive term pregnancies have long-lasting protective effects reducing hypertension and mitigating cardiovascular damage in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yourong Feng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Sandy Lau
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Qi Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Charlotte Oyston
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Katie Groom
- Liggins Institute, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Carolyn J Barrett
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Lawrence W Chamley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Yao J, Chang X, He Q, Li H, Duan T, Wang K. Exosome enriched leucine-rich alpha-2-glycoprotein-1 and extracellular matrix protein 1 proteins induce abnormal placental angiogenesis in pregnant mice. Placenta 2023; 143:45-53. [PMID: 37804693 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2023.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is characterized by a high risk of fetal macrosomia and placenta hypervascularization. Exosomes has been known participating in various physiological and pathological processes, including pro-angiogenic function. However, the effects of umbilical cord blood derived exosomes from cases of GDM (GDM-exo) on placental vascular network formation remain unclear. METHODS In the current study, we isolated and identified exosomes in umbilical cord blood from both normal (N-exo) and GDM pregnancies. Meanwhile, we investigated the effects of umbilical cord blood derived exosomes on placental angiogenesis both in vitro and in vivo. RESULTS Our data indicated that in a mouse model, the placenta and fetus weight were significantly higher in the ones administrated with GDM-exo when compared with N-exo. Meanwhile, GDM-exo significantly enhanced placental endothelial cells functions in both HUVEC and HPMEC endothelial cell models. Importantly, we explored two up-regulated proteins in GDM-exo, namely leucine-rich alpha-2-glycoprotein-1 (LRG1) and extracellular matrix protein 1 (ECM1) by proteome analysis, which performed largely pro-angiogenic function and probably resulted in hypervascularization in GDM placenta. DISCUSSION Thus, we proposed that abundant LRG1 and ECM1 enriched GDM-exo may take important roles in regulating pathological placental angiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julei Yao
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 201204, PR China
| | - Xinwen Chang
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 201204, PR China
| | - Qizhi He
- Department of Pathology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 201204, PR China
| | - Hua Li
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 201204, PR China
| | - Tao Duan
- Department of Obstetrics, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 201204, PR China.
| | - Kai Wang
- Clinical and Translational Research Center, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 201204, PR China.
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Rao A, Shinde U, Das DK, Balasinor N, Madan T. Early prediction of pre-eclampsia using circulating placental exosomes: Newer insights. Indian J Med Res 2023; 158:385-396. [PMID: 37987999 DOI: 10.4103/ijmr.ijmr_2143_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Pre-eclampsia (PE), a multifactorial de novo hypertensive pregnancy disorder, is one of the leading causes of foeto-maternal morbidity and mortality. Currently, antihypertensive drugs are the first-line therapy for PE and evidence suggests that low-dose aspirin initiated early in high risk pregnancies may reduce the risk of development or severity of PE. However, an early prediction of this disorder remains an unmet clinical challenge. Several potential serum biomarkers associated with maternal immunoregulation and placental angiogenesis have been evaluated but are ineffective and inconsistent for early prediction. Although placental biomarkers would be more specific and sensitive in predicting the risk of PE, accessing the placenta during pregnancy is not feasible. Circulating placental exosomes (pEXO), originating from foeto-maternal interface, are being evaluated as the placenta's surrogate and the best source of non-invasive placental biomarkers. pEXO appear in the maternal circulation starting from six weeks of gestation and its dynamic biological cargo across pregnancy is associated with successful pregnancy outcomes. Therefore, monitoring changes in pEXO expression profiles could provide new insights into the prediction, diagnosis and treatment of PE. This narrative review comprehensively summarizes the available literature on the candidate predictive circulating biomarkers evaluated for PE to date. In particular, the review elucidates the current knowledge of distinct molecular signatures emanating from pEXO in pre-eclamptic women to support the discovery of novel early predictive biomarkers for effective intervention and management of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aishwarya Rao
- Department of Innate Immunity, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive & Child Health, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Uma Shinde
- Department of Neuroendocrinology, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive & Child Health, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Dhanjit Kumar Das
- Department of Stem Cell Biology, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive & Child Health, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Nafisa Balasinor
- Department of Neuroendocrinology, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive & Child Health, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
| | - Taruna Madan
- Department of Innate Immunity, ICMR-National Institute for Research in Reproductive & Child Health, Mumbai, Maharashtra, India
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Song P, Anna B, E Scott G, Chamley LW. The interaction of placental micro-EVs with immune cells in vivo and in vitro. Am J Reprod Immunol 2023; 90:e13766. [PMID: 37641368 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13766] [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: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Considerable evidence suggests that placental extracellular vesicles (EVs) interact with most types of leukocytes in vitro but in vivo biodistribution studies question whether these interactions are reflective of the situation in vivo. METHOD OF STUDY CellTracker Red CMTPX stained human placental micro-EVs were isolated from first trimester placental explant cultures. Equivalent amounts of micro-EVs were cultured with murine leukocytes in vitro or injected into pregnant or non-pregnant mice. After intravenous injection, on day 12.5 of gestation, major organs and blood samples were harvested 30 min or 24 h post injection. RESULTS We screened cryosections of the organs and confirmed that human placental EVs were specifically localised to the spleen, liver and the lungs 30 min or 24 h after injection. Immunohistochemistry showed that most of the EVs interacted with macrophages in those three organs and some of them also associated with T and B lymphocytes in the spleen or endothelial cells in the lungs and liver. Flow cytometry demonstrated that there was very little interaction between circulating leukocytes and EVs in vivo. While minimal, significantly more EVs interacted with leukocytes in pregnant than nonpregnant mice. CONCLUSION The major interaction between human placental micro-EVs and maternal leukocytes appear to be with macrophages predominantly in the splenic marginal zone, liver and lungs with little interaction between EVs and circulating leukocytes. Since marginal zone macrophages induce tolerance after phagocytosing apoptotic bodies it is likely that phagocytosis of placental EVs by marginal zone macrophages may also contribute to maternal immune tolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paek Song
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Hub for Extracellular Vesicle Investigations (HEVI), The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Brooks Anna
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Graham E Scott
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, and Centre for Brain Research, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Lawrence Willam Chamley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Hub for Extracellular Vesicle Investigations (HEVI), The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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8
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Chen Y, Chen H, Zheng Q. Siglecs family used by pathogens for immune escape may engaged in immune tolerance in pregnancy. J Reprod Immunol 2023; 159:104127. [PMID: 37572430 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2023.104127] [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: 05/08/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
The Siglecs family is a group of type I sialic acid-binding immunoglobulin-like receptors that regulate cellular signaling by recognizing sialic acid epitopes. Siglecs are predominantly expressed on the surface of leukocytes, where they play a crucial role in regulating immune activity. Pathogens can exploit inhibitory Siglecs by utilizing their sialic acid components to promote invasion or suppress immune functions, facilitating immune evasion. The establishing of an immune-balanced maternal-fetal interface microenvironment is essential for a successful pregnancy. Dysfunctional immune cells may lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes. Siglecs are important for inducing a phenotypic switch in leukocytes at the maternal-fetal interface toward a less toxic and more tolerant phenotype. Recent discoveries regarding Siglecs in the reproductive system have drawn further attention to their potential roles in reproduction. In this review, we primarily discuss the latest advances in understanding the impact of Siglecs as immune regulators on infections and pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Chen
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 3025# Shennan Road, Shenzhen 518033, PR China
| | - Huan Chen
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 3025# Shennan Road, Shenzhen 518033, PR China
| | - Qingliang Zheng
- Prenatal Diagnosis Center, The Eighth Affiliated Hospital, Sun Yat-sen University, 3025# Shennan Road, Shenzhen 518033, PR China.
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9
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Chen X, Tijono S, Tsai B, Chamley L, Ching LM, Chen Q. A pilot in vivo study: potential ovarian cancer therapeutic by placental extracellular vesicles. Biosci Rep 2023; 43:BSR20230307. [PMID: 37503762 PMCID: PMC10442519 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20230307] [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: 02/16/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The biological links between cancer and pregnancy are of interest due to parallel proliferative, immunosuppressive, and invasive mechanisms between tumour and placental cells. However, the proliferation and invasion of placental cells are strictly regulated. The understanding of this regulation is largely unknown. Placental extracellular vesicles (EVs) may play an important role in this regulation, as placental EVs are known to contribute to maternal adaptation, including adaptation of the vascular and immune systems. We have previously reported that placental EVs significantly inhibited ovarian cancer cell proliferation by delaying the progression of the cell cycle. We, therefore, performed this pilot in vivo study to investigate whether placental EVs can also inhibit ovarian tumour growth in a SKOV-3 human tumour xenograft model. A single intraperitoneal injection of placental EVs at 15 days post tumour implantation, significantly inhibited the growth of the tumours in our in vivo model. Signs of cellular necrosis were observed in the ovarian tumour tissues, but not in other organs collected from mice that had been treated with placental EVs. Expression of receptor-interacting kinase 1 (RIPK1) and mixed linkage kinase domain-like (MLKL), which are mediators of necroptosis were not observed in our xenografted tumours. However, extensive infiltration of CD169+ macrophages and NK cells in ovarian tumour tissues collected from placental micro-EVs treated mice were observed. We demonstrate here that inhibition of ovarian tumour growth in our xenograft model by placental EVs involves cellular necrosis and infiltration of CD169+ macrophages and NK cells into the tumour tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyue Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Sofian Tijono
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Bridget Tsai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Lawrence William Chamley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Lai-Ming Ching
- Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Qi Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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10
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Hiremath SC, Weaver JD. Engineering of Trophoblast Extracellular Vesicle-Delivering Hydrogels for Localized Tolerance Induction in Cell Transplantation. Cell Mol Bioeng 2023; 16:341-354. [PMID: 37811006 PMCID: PMC10550893 DOI: 10.1007/s12195-023-00778-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 08/03/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose The need for chronic systemic immunosuppression, which presents a host of acute risks to transplantation patients, remains the primary limitation for the translation of many cell therapies, such as insulin secreting cells for the treatment of type 1 diabetes. Trophoblasts are the professional tolerogenic cells of the placenta, and they secrete a range of soluble factors to induce antigen specific tolerance toward allogeneic fetal tissue during pregnancy, including extracellular vesicles. Here we develop a trophoblast extracellular vesicle-delivering hydrogel designed for sustained, localized tolerogenic factor delivery within a transplant site to induce localized tolerance toward cell grafts. Methods We engineer a synthetic poly(ethylene glycol)-based hydrogel system to tether extracellular vesicles for sustained delivery, and compare this system to passive vesicle entrapment within an alginate hydrogel system. We characterize trophoblast extracellular vesicles for size and morphology, and evaluate vesicle tolerogenic protein content via proteomic analysis. We validate the retention and tethering of extracellular vesicles within the hydrogel systems via scanning electron and stimulated emission depletion microscopy, and measure vesicle release rate over time. Finally, we evaluate trophoblast extracellular vesicle influence on natural killer cell activation in vitro. Results We isolated trophoblast extracellular vesicles and proteomics confirmed the presence of tolerogenic factors. We confirmed the presence of extracellular vesicles within hydrogel delivery vehicles, and synthetic hydrogels extended extracellular vesicle release relative to a passive hydrogel system. Finally, extracellular vesicles reduced natural killer cell activation in vitro, confirming the tolerogenic potential of hydrogel-delivered extracellular vesicles. Conclusions This tolerogenic extracellular vesicle-delivering hydrogel platform designed for delivery within a transplant site could serve as an alternative to systemic immunosuppression in cell transplantation, potentially reducing the risks associated with cell therapies and widening the eligible patient population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivani C. Hiremath
- School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering, Arizona State University, 550 E. Orange St, Tempe, AZ 85281 USA
| | - Jessica D. Weaver
- School of Biological and Health Systems Engineering, Arizona State University, 550 E. Orange St, Tempe, AZ 85281 USA
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11
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Guzewska MM, Szuszkiewicz J, Kaczmarek MM. Extracellular vesicles: Focus on peri-implantation period of pregnancy in pigs. Mol Reprod Dev 2023; 90:634-645. [PMID: 36645872 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The establishment of cell-to-cell communication between the endometrium and the developing embryo is the most important step in successful mammalian pregnancy. Close interaction between the uterine luminal epithelium and trophoblast cells requires triggering timely molecular dialog for successful maternal recognition of pregnancy, embryo implantation, and placenta development. Quite recently, extracellular vesicles (EVs) carrying unique molecular cargo emerged as evolutionarily conserved mediators of cell-to-cell communication during early pregnancy. To date, the presence of EVs at the embryo-maternal interface has been demonstrated in numerous mammals, including domestic livestock, such as pigs. However, few studies have focused on revealing the mechanism of EV-mediated crosstalk between developing early embryos and receptive endometrium. Over the past years, it has appeared that understanding the role of EVs in mammalian reproduction can substantially improve our understanding of the biological challenges of successful reproductive performance. This review describes current knowledge of EVs, specifically in relation to the peri-implantation period in pigs, characterized by common features of embryo implantation and high embryonic mortality in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria M Guzewska
- Department of Hormonal Action Mechanisms, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Joanna Szuszkiewicz
- Department of Hormonal Action Mechanisms, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Monika M Kaczmarek
- Department of Hormonal Action Mechanisms, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
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12
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Kang M, Hisey C, Tsai B, Nursalim Y, Blenkiron C, Chamley LW. Placental Extracellular Vesicles Can Be Loaded with Plasmid DNA. Mol Pharm 2023; 20:1898-1913. [PMID: 36919912 DOI: 10.1021/acs.molpharmaceut.2c00533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/16/2023]
Abstract
Recently, extracellular vesicles (EVs) have garnered considerable interest as potential vehicles for drug delivery, including gene therapy. Although EVs from diverse sources have been investigated, current techniques used in the field for EV generation limit large-scale EV production. The placenta is essentially a tissue transplant and has unique properties that allow it to avoid the maternal immune system making it likely that placental EVs will not generate inflammatory responses and will avoid clearance by the immune system. We propose that placental EVs produced from explant cultures are an efficient method to produce considerable quantities of EVs that would be safe to administer, and we hypothesize that placental EVs can be loaded with large exogenous plasmids. To this end, we trialed three strategies to load plasmid DNA into placental EVs, including loading via electroporation of placental tissue prior to EV isolation and loading directly into placental EVs via electroporation or direct incubation of the EVs in plasmid solution. We report that the placenta releases vast quantities of EVs compared to placental cells in monolayer cultures. We show successful loading of plasmid DNA into both large- and small-EVs following both exogenous loading strategies with more plasmid encapsulated in large-EVs. Importantly, direct incubation did not alter EV size nor quantity. Further, we showed that the loading efficiency into EVs was dependent on the exogenous plasmid DNA dose and the DNA size. These results provide realistic estimates of plasmid loading capacity into placental EVs using current technologies and showcase the potential of placental EVs as DNA delivery vehicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Kang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, Auckland, 1023 New Zealand
| | - Colin Hisey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, Auckland, 1023 New Zealand.,Department of biomedical Engineering, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, 43210 United States
| | - Bridget Tsai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, Auckland, 1023 New Zealand
| | - Yohanes Nursalim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, Auckland, 1023 New Zealand
| | - Cherie Blenkiron
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, Auckland, 1023 New Zealand.,Auckland Cancer Society Research Center (ACSRC), University of Auckland, Auckland, 1023 New Zealand.,Molecular Medicine and Pathology, University of Auckland, Auckland, 1023 New Zealand
| | - Lawrence W Chamley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, Auckland, 1023 New Zealand
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13
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Gonzalez Fernandez J, Moncayo Arlandi J, Ochando A, Simon C, Vilella F. The role of extracellular vesicles in intercellular communication in human reproduction. Clin Sci (Lond) 2023; 137:281-301. [PMID: 36762584 DOI: 10.1042/cs20220793] [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: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023]
Abstract
Embryo-maternal cross-talk has emerged as a vitally important process for embryo development and implantation, which is driven by secreted factors and extracellular vesicles (EVs). The EV cargo of bioactive molecules significantly influences target cells and primes them for critical stages of reproductive biology, including embryo development, adhesion, and implantation. Recent research has suggested that EVs and their cargo represent a powerful non-invasive tool that can be leveraged to assess embryo and maternal tissue quality during assisted reproduction treatments. Here, we review the current scientific literature regarding the intercellular cross-talk between embryos and maternal tissues from fertilization to implantation, focusing on human biology and signaling mechanisms identified in animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Javier Gonzalez Fernandez
- Carlos Simon Foundation, INCLIVA Health Research Institute, C/ Eduardo Primo Yúfera 3, 46012, Valencia, Spain
| | - Javier Moncayo Arlandi
- Carlos Simon Foundation, INCLIVA Health Research Institute, C/ Eduardo Primo Yúfera 3, 46012, Valencia, Spain
| | - Ana Ochando
- Carlos Simon Foundation, INCLIVA Health Research Institute, C/ Eduardo Primo Yúfera 3, 46012, Valencia, Spain
| | - Carlos Simon
- Carlos Simon Foundation, INCLIVA Health Research Institute, C/ Eduardo Primo Yúfera 3, 46012, Valencia, Spain
| | - Felipe Vilella
- Carlos Simon Foundation, INCLIVA Health Research Institute, C/ Eduardo Primo Yúfera 3, 46012, Valencia, Spain
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14
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Ortega MA, Fraile-Martínez O, García-Montero C, Paradela A, Asunción Sánchez-Gil M, Rodriguez-Martin S, De León-Luis JA, Pereda-Cerquella C, Bujan J, Guijarro LG, Alvarez-Mon M, García-Honduvilla N. Unfolding the role of placental-derived Extracellular Vesicles in Pregnancy: From homeostasis to pathophysiology. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:1060850. [PMID: 36478738 PMCID: PMC9720121 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.1060850] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
The human placenta is a critical structure with multiple roles in pregnancy, including fetal nutrition and support, immunological, mechanical and chemical barrier as well as an endocrine activity. Besides, a growing body of evidence highlight the relevance of this organ on the maternofetal wellbeing not only during gestation, but also from birth onwards. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are complex macromolecular structures of different size and content, acting as carriers of a diverse set of molecules and information from donor to recipient cells. Since its early development, the production and function of placental-derived EVs are essential to ensure an adequate progress of pregnancy. In turn, the fetus receives and produce their own EVs, highlighting the importance of these components in the maternofetal communication. Moreover, several studies have shown the clinical relevance of EVs in different obstetric pathologies such as preeclampsia, infectious diseases or gestational diabetes, among others, suggesting that they could be used as pathophysiological biomarkers of these diseases. Overall, the aim of this article is to present an updated review of the published basic and translational knowledge focusing on the role of placental-derived EVs in normal and pathological pregnancies. We suggest as well future lines of research to take in this novel and promising field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel A. Ortega
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialities, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcala de Henares, Spain
- Ramón y Cajal Institute of Sanitary Research (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
- Cancer Registry and Pathology Department, Principe de Asturias University Hospital, Alcala de Henares, Spain
| | - Oscar Fraile-Martínez
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialities, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcala de Henares, Spain
- Ramón y Cajal Institute of Sanitary Research (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
| | - Cielo García-Montero
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialities, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcala de Henares, Spain
- Ramón y Cajal Institute of Sanitary Research (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
| | | | - María Asunción Sánchez-Gil
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialities, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcala de Henares, Spain
- University Defense Center of Madrid (CUD), Madrid, Spain
| | - Sonia Rodriguez-Martin
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialities, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcala de Henares, Spain
- Ramón y Cajal Institute of Sanitary Research (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
- Service of Pediatric, Hospital Universitario Principe de Asturias, Alcalá de Henares, Spain
| | - Juan A. De León-Luis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
- Health Research Institute Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
- Department of Public and Maternal and Child Health, School of Medicine, Complutense University of Ma-drid, Madrid, Spain
| | - Claude Pereda-Cerquella
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialities, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcala de Henares, Spain
| | - Julia Bujan
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialities, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcala de Henares, Spain
- Ramón y Cajal Institute of Sanitary Research (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
| | - Luis G. Guijarro
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialities, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcala de Henares, Spain
- Ramón y Cajal Institute of Sanitary Research (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
- Unit of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en El Área Temática de Enfermedades Hepáticas (CIBEREHD), Department of System Biology, University of Alcalá, Alcala de Henares, Spain
| | - Melchor Alvarez-Mon
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialities, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcala de Henares, Spain
- Ramón y Cajal Institute of Sanitary Research (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
- Immune System Diseases-Rheumatology, Oncology Service an Internal Medicine, Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red en El Área Temática de Enfermedades Hepáticas (CIBEREHD), University Hospital Príncipe de Asturias, Alcala de Henares, Spain
| | - Natalio García-Honduvilla
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialities, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcala de Henares, Spain
- Ramón y Cajal Institute of Sanitary Research (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
- University Defense Center of Madrid (CUD), Madrid, Spain
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15
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Wu HM, Chen LH, Hsu LT, Lai CH. Immune Tolerance of Embryo Implantation and Pregnancy: The Role of Human Decidual Stromal Cell- and Embryonic-Derived Extracellular Vesicles. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232113382. [PMID: 36362169 PMCID: PMC9658721 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 10/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Embryo–endometrial communication plays a critical role in embryo implantation and the establishment of a successful pregnancy. Successful pregnancy outcomes involve maternal immune modulation during embryo implantation. The endometrium is usually primed and immunomodulated by steroid hormones and embryo signals for subsequent embryo implantation and the maintenance of pregnancy. The roles of extracellular vesicles (EVs) and microRNAs for the embryo–maternal interactions have been elucidated recently. New evidence shows that endometrial EVs and trophectoderm-originated EV cargo, including microRNAs, proteins, and lipids in the physiological microenvironment, regulate maternal immunomodulation for embryo implantation and subsequent pregnancy. On the other hand, trophoblast-derived EVs also control the cross-communication between the trophoblasts and immune cells. The exploration of EV functions and mechanisms in the processes of embryo implantation and pregnancy will shed light on a practical tool for the diagnostic or therapeutic approaches to reproductive medicine and infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsien-Ming Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Liang-Hsuan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Le-Tien Hsu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
| | - Chyong-Huey Lai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Gynecologic Cancer Research Center, Linkou Medical Center, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Taoyuan 333, Taiwan
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +886-3-328-1200 (ext. 8254)
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16
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First trimester placental extracellular vesicles likely contribute to the vasodilation of maternal resistance arteries in normal pregnancy. Placenta 2022; 129:84-86. [PMID: 36270043 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2022.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
During the first trimester of pregnancy, there is a large decrease in systemic vascular resistance (SVR) which coincides temporally with increasing extrusion of extracellular vesicles (EVs) from the placenta. We hypothesized that placental EVs may be one of the mechanisms contributing to maternal vasodilation. Macro-, micro-, nano-EVs from human first trimester placenta, or control injections containing EVs derived from fresh culture media, were injected into pregnant mice at day 12.5. After 30 min or 24 h, second order resistance arteries assessed for their reactivity to various vasomodulators. Placental EVs induced an anti-constrictive, pro-vasodilatory effect in maternal resistance arteries compared to control injections after 24 h suggesting that placental EVs may contribute to the maternal vasodilation during pregnancy.
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17
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Feng Y, Chen Q, Lau SY, Tsai BW, Groom K, Barrett CJ, Chamley LW. The Blocking of Integrin-Mediated Interactions with Maternal Endothelial Cells Reversed the Endothelial Cell Dysfunction Induced by EVs, Derived from Preeclamptic Placentae. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:13115. [PMID: 36361901 PMCID: PMC9657319 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232113115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 08/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Placental extracellular vesicles (EVs) have increasingly been recognized as a major mediator of feto-maternal communication. However, the cellular and molecular mechanisms of the uptake of placental EVs by recipient cells are still not well-understood. We previously reported that placental EVs target a limited number of organs in vivo. In the current study, we investigated the mechanisms underlying the uptake of placental EVs into target cells. Placental EVs were derived from explant cultures of normal or preeclamptic placentae. The mechanisms underlying the uptake of placental EVs were elucidated, using the phagocytosis or endocytosis inhibitor, trypsin-treatment or integrin-blocking peptides. The endothelial cell activation was studied using the monocyte adhesion assay after the preeclamptic EVs exposure, with and/or without treatment with the integrin blocking peptide, YIGSR. The cellular mechanism of the uptake of the placental EVs was time, concentration and energy-dependent and both the phagocytosis and endocytosis were involved in this process. Additionally, proteins on the surface of the placental EVs, including integrins, were involved in the EV uptake process. Furthermore, inhibiting the uptake of preeclamptic EVs with YIGSR, reduced the endothelial cell activation. The interaction between the placental EVs and the recipient cells is mediated by integrins, and the cellular uptake is mediated by a combination of both phagocytosis and endocytosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yourong Feng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
| | - Qi Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
| | - Sien Yee Lau
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
| | - Bridget W. Tsai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
| | - Katie Groom
- Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
| | - Carolyn J. Barrett
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
| | - Lawrence W. Chamley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
- Hub for Extracellular Vesicles Investigations (HEVI), University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
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18
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Main C, Chen X, Zhao M, Chamley LW, Chen Q. Understanding How Pregnancy Protects Against Ovarian and Endometrial Cancer Development: Fetal Antigens May Be Involved. Endocrinology 2022; 163:6675223. [PMID: 36004540 PMCID: PMC9574549 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqac141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
It is well known that many factors, including infertility, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and family history of cancer, increase the risk of developing endometrial and ovarian cancer. However, multiparous women are known to have a lower risk of developing either ovarian or endometrial cancer than nonparous women. The lack of ovulation and shifting of sex hormonal balance, with decreased estrogen levels and increased progesterone levels during pregnancy, has traditionally been thought to be the major contributor to this decreased risk. However, in reality, the mechanisms underlying this phenomenon are relatively unknown. Increasing evidence suggests that endocrine factors are unlikely to completely explain the protective effect of pregnancies, and that multiple other nonendocrine mechanisms including fetal antigens and the newly proposed dormant cells hypothesis may also be involved. In this review, we summarize recent evidence and describe the potential underlying mechanisms that may explain how pregnancy protects against the development of ovarian and endometrial cancers in women's later life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Main
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1141, New Zealand
| | - Xinyue Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1141, New Zealand
| | - Min Zhao
- Department of Gynecological Cancer, Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing 214002, China
| | - Lawrence W Chamley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1141, New Zealand
| | - Qi Chen
- Correspondence: Qi Chen, MD, PhD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Science, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand. ; or Min Zhao, MD, PhD, Department of Gynecological Cancer, Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, China.
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19
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Szuszkiewicz J, Myszczynski K, Reliszko ZP, Heifetz Y, Kaczmarek MM. Early steps of embryo implantation are regulated by exchange of extracellular vesicles between the embryo and the endometrium. FASEB J 2022; 36:e22450. [PMID: 35848638 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202200677r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 06/12/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
In early pregnancy, as the embryo arrives in the uterus, intensive communication between the embryo and uterus begins. Hundreds of molecules are known to be involved, but despite numerous findings, full understanding of the complexity of the embryo-maternal dialog remains elusive. Recently, extracellular vesicles, nanoparticles able to transfer functionally active cargo between cells, have emerged as important players in cell-cell communication, and as such, they have gained great attention over the past decade also in reproductive biology. Here, we use a domestic animal model (Sus scrofa) with an epitheliochorial, superficial type of placentation because of its advantage in studding uterine luminal fluid extracellular vesicles. We show that during early pregnancy, the uterine lumen is abundant with extracellular vesicles that carry a plethora of miRNAs able to target genes involved in embryonic and organismal development. These extracellular vesicles, upon the delivery to primary trophoblast cells, affect genes governing development as well as cell-to-cell signaling and interactions, consequently having an impact on trophoblast cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. We conclude that the exchange of a unique population of extracellular vesicles and their molecular cargo at the maternal-embryo interface is the key to the success of embryo implantation and pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Szuszkiewicz
- Department of Hormonal Action Mechanisms, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Kamil Myszczynski
- Molecular Biology Laboratory, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Zaneta P Reliszko
- Department of Hormonal Action Mechanisms, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Yael Heifetz
- Department of Entomology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot, Israel
| | - Monika M Kaczmarek
- Department of Hormonal Action Mechanisms, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland.,Molecular Biology Laboratory, Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn, Poland
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20
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Gauster M, Moser G, Wernitznig S, Kupper N, Huppertz B. Early human trophoblast development: from morphology to function. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:345. [PMID: 35661923 PMCID: PMC9167809 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04377-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Human pregnancy depends on the proper development of the embryo prior to implantation and the implantation of the embryo into the uterine wall. During the pre-implantation phase, formation of the morula is followed by internalization of blastomeres that differentiate into the pluripotent inner cell mass lineage, while the cells on the surface undergo polarization and differentiate into the trophectoderm of the blastocyst. The trophectoderm mediates apposition and adhesion of the blastocyst to the uterine epithelium. These processes lead to a stable contact between embryonic and maternal tissues, resulting in the formation of a new organ, the placenta. During implantation, the trophectoderm cells start to differentiate and form the basis for multiple specialized trophoblast subpopulations, all of which fulfilling specific key functions in placentation. They either differentiate into polar cells serving typical epithelial functions, or into apolar invasive cells that adapt the uterine wall to progressing pregnancy. The composition of these trophoblast subpopulations is crucial for human placenta development and alterations are suggested to result in placenta-associated pregnancy pathologies. This review article focuses on what is known about very early processes in human reproduction and emphasizes on morphological and functional aspects of early trophoblast differentiation and subpopulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Gauster
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Gerit Moser
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Stefan Wernitznig
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Nadja Kupper
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Berthold Huppertz
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6, 8010, Graz, Austria.
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21
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Inagaki M, Tachikawa M. Transport Characteristics of Placenta-Derived Extracellular Vesicles and Their Relevance to Placenta-to-Maternal Tissue Communication. Chem Pharm Bull (Tokyo) 2022; 70:324-329. [DOI: 10.1248/cpb.c22-00072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mai Inagaki
- Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University
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22
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Morelli AE, Sadovsky Y. Extracellular vesicles and immune response during pregnancy: A balancing act. Immunol Rev 2022; 308:105-122. [PMID: 35199366 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The mechanisms underlying maternal tolerance of the semi- or fully-allogeneic fetus are intensely investigated. Across gestation, feto-placental antigens interact with the maternal immune system locally within the trophoblast-decidual interface and distantly through shed cells and soluble molecules that interact with maternal secondary lymphoid tissues. The discovery of extracellular vesicles (EVs) as local or systemic carriers of antigens and immune-regulatory molecules has added a new dimension to our understanding of immune modulation prior to implantation, during trophoblast invasion, and throughout the course of pregnancy. New data on immune-regulatory molecules, located on EVs or within their cargo, suggest a role for EVs in negotiating immune tolerance during gestation. Lessons from the field of transplant immunology also shed light on possible interactions between feto-placentally derived EVs and maternal lymphoid tissues. These insights illuminate a potential role for EVs in major obstetrical disorders. This review provides updated information on intensely studied, pregnancy-related EVs, their cargo molecules, and patterns of fetal-placental-maternal trafficking, highlighting potential immune pathways that might underlie immune suppression or activation in gestational health and disease. Our summary also underscores the likely need to broaden the definition of the maternal-fetal interface to systemic maternal immune tissues that might interact with circulating EVs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian E Morelli
- Department of Surgery, Thomas E. Starzl Transplantation Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Immunology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Yoel Sadovsky
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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23
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Woolston E, Tang Y, Azizi S, Kando I, Chamley L, Stone P, Chen Q. Comparison of the effects on maternal endothelial cell activation: an in vitro study of anti-hypertensive drugs clinically used in pre-eclampsia. J Hum Hypertens 2022; 36:192-200. [PMID: 33686209 DOI: 10.1038/s41371-021-00497-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Endothelial cell dysfunction in pregnancy, which can be induced by placental factors, is the fundamental component of the pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia. The dysfunctional vascular endothelium disrupts the balance of vasodilatory and vasoconstrictive factors, resulting in increasing blood pressure. There is currently no effective treatment for pre-eclampsia and effective control of hypertension may reduce neonatal morbidity and mortality by prolonging gestation, especially in cases of early onset disease. To date methyldopa, labetalol, nifedipine and metoprolol are recommended for controlling blood pressure in pre-eclampsia. All of these drugs have different mechanisms of action. In this in vitro study we investigated whether different types of anti-hypertensive drugs could have different effects on improving maternal endothelial cell dysfunction. Endothelial cells (HMEC-1) were exposed to phorbol-12-myristate-13-acetate (PMA) or pre-eclamptic sera or extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from pre-eclamptic placentae, in the presence of each of the studied anti-hypertensive drugs (methyldopa, labetalol, nifedipine and metoprolol) or placebo for 24 h. Endothelial cell-surface adhesion molecule (ICAM-1) and monocyte adhesion were measured. The expression of cell-face ICAM-1 by HMEC-1 cells and THP-1 monocyte adherent to HMEC-1 that were exposed to three separate well-known activators of endothelial cells in the presence of four anti-hypertensive drugs was significantly reduced regardless of the dose. However, the effect on the reduction of ICAM-1 expression and monocyte adhesion was not significantly different between the four medications. Our data suggest that the beneficial effect on improving endothelial cell function by these commonly prescribed anti-hypertensive drugs is seemingly independent of the anti-hypertensive mechanisms of the medication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther Woolston
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Yunhui Tang
- The Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China. .,National Women's Health, Auckland City Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Sonia Azizi
- National Women's Health, Auckland City Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Ian Kando
- National Women's Health, Auckland City Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Larry Chamley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Peter Stone
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Qi Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,The Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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24
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Assessing hypoxic damage to placental trophoblasts by measuring membrane viscosity of extracellular vesicles. Placenta 2022; 121:14-22. [PMID: 35245720 PMCID: PMC9010367 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2022.02.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 02/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION As highly sophisticated intercellular communication vehicles in biological systems, extracellular vesicles (EVs) have been investigated as both promising liquid biopsy-based disease biomarkers and drug delivery carriers. Despite tremendous progress in understanding their biological and physiological functions, mechanical characterization of these nanoscale entities remains challenging due to the limited availability of proper techniques. Especially, whether damage to parental cells can be reflected by the mechanical properties of their EVs remains unknown. METHODS In this study, we characterized membrane viscosities of different types of EVs collected from primary human trophoblasts (PHTs), including apoptotic bodies, microvesicles and small extracellular vesicles, using fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM). The biochemical origin of EV membrane viscosity was examined by analyzing their phospholipid composition, using mass spectrometry. RESULTS We found that different EV types derived from the same cell type exhibit different membrane viscosities. The measured membrane viscosity values are well supported by the lipidomic analysis of the phospholipid compositions. We further demonstrate that the membrane viscosity of microvesicles can faithfully reveal hypoxic injury of the human trophoblasts. More specifically, the membrane of PHT microvesicles released under hypoxic condition is less viscous than its counterpart under standard culture condition, which is supported by the reduction in the phosphatidylethanolamine-to-phosphatidylcholine ratio in PHT microvesicles. DISCUSSION Our study suggests that biophysical properties of released trophoblastic microvesicles can reflect cell health. Characterizing EV's membrane viscosity may pave the way for the development of new EV-based clinical applications.
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Tsai BW, Lau S, Paek SY, Wise M, Kando I, Stone P, Chen Q, Chamley LW. Antiphospholipid antibodies do not cause retargeting of placental extracellular vesicles in the maternal body. Placenta 2022; 118:66-69. [PMID: 35042085 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2022.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Revised: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) are autoantibodies that cause pregnancy disorders by a poorly defined mechanism that involves the placenta. The human placenta is covered by a single multinucleated cell, the syncytiotrophoblast, which extrudes vast numbers of extracellular vesicles (EVs) into the maternal blood. Extracellular vesicles are tiny packages of cellular material used by cells for remote signalling. In normal pregnancy, placental EVs assist maternal adaptations to pregnancy. We have previously shown that aPL alter the cargo of placental EVs, increasing the load of danger signals. These changes in EV cargo may explain how aPL contribute to the increased risk of recurrent miscarriage, preeclampsia and stillbirths observed in aPL-affected pregnancies. An additional possibility, that aPL alters the targeting of placental EVs to maternal organs to cause maternal maladaptation to pregnancy was investigated in this study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bridget W Tsai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Sandy Lau
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Song Yee Paek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Michelle Wise
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Ian Kando
- National Women's Health Auckland City Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Peter Stone
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Qi Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Lawrence W Chamley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, The University of Auckland, New Zealand
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Li Y, Tan J, Miao Y, Zhang Q. MicroRNA in extracellular vesicles regulates inflammation through macrophages under hypoxia. Cell Death Dis 2021; 7:285. [PMID: 34635652 PMCID: PMC8505641 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-021-00670-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2021] [Revised: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Extracellular vesicle (EV), critical mediators of cell-cell communication, allow cells to exchange proteins, lipids, and genetic material and therefore profoundly affect the general homeostasis. A hypoxic environment can affect the biogenesis and secrete of EVs, and the cargoes carried can participate in a variety of physiological and pathological processes. In hypoxia-induced inflammation, microRNA(miRNA) in EV participates in transcriptional regulation through various pathways to promote or reduce the inflammatory response. Meanwhile, as an important factor of immune response, the polarization of macrophages is closely linked to miRNAs, which will eventually affect the inflammatory state. In this review, we outline the possible molecular mechanism of EV changes under hypoxia, focusing on the signaling pathways of several microRNAs involved in inflammation regulation and describing the process and mechanism of EV-miRNAs regulating macrophage polarization in hypoxic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Li
- grid.412645.00000 0004 1757 9434Department of Geriatrics, Tianjin Geriatrics Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 300052 Tianjin, China
| | - Jin Tan
- grid.412645.00000 0004 1757 9434Department of Geriatrics, Tianjin Geriatrics Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 300052 Tianjin, China
| | - Yuyang Miao
- grid.265021.20000 0000 9792 1228Tianjin Medical University, 300052 Tianjin, China
| | - Qiang Zhang
- grid.412645.00000 0004 1757 9434Department of Geriatrics, Tianjin Geriatrics Institute, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, 300052 Tianjin, China
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Forstner D, Guettler J, Gauster M. Changes in Maternal Platelet Physiology during Gestation and Their Interaction with Trophoblasts. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910732. [PMID: 34639070 PMCID: PMC8509324 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Revised: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Upon activation, maternal platelets provide a source of proinflammatory mediators in the intervillous space of the placenta. Therefore, platelet-derived factors may interfere with different trophoblast subtypes of the developing human placenta and might cause altered hormone secretion and placental dysfunction later on in pregnancy. Increased platelet activation, and the subsequent occurrence of placental fibrinoid deposition, are linked to placenta pathologies such as preeclampsia. The composition and release of platelet-derived factors change over gestation and provide a potential source of predicting biomarkers for the developing fetus and the mother. This review indicates possible mechanisms of platelet-trophoblast interactions and discusses the effect of increased platelet activation on placenta development.
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Su C, Tang Y, Shen F, Kang M, Groom K, Wise M, Chamley L, Chen Q. Placental extracellular vesicles retain biological activity after short-term storage (14 days) at 4 °C or room temperature. Placenta 2021; 115:115-120. [PMID: 34600275 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2021.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To investigate the role of placental extracellular vesicles (EVs), especially in pathological pregnancy, the use of freshly isolated EVs is often limited due to the sporadic and unpredictable availability of placental samples. Therefore, it is important to understand and use optimised storage conditions for placental EVs. In this study, we investigated different conditions for the short-term storage of placental micro- and nano-EVs and examined their biological activity. METHODS Placental EVs were collected from first trimester placentae. EVs were suspended in PBS and aliquoted, and then stored for up to 14 days at room temperature, 4 °C or -20 °C. Total protein and DNA levels were measured at various time points. The ability of stored placental EVs to alter endothelial cell activation was quantified by monocyte adhesion assays. RESULTS There was no difference in the concentration of placental micro- or nano-EVs between each time point, when stored at either room temperature or 4 °C. However, there was a significant loss of placental EVs after storage at -20 °C. There was no difference in protein or DNA levels of placental EVs when stored at either room temperature or 4 °C. Biological activity of placental EVs was retained for up to 14 days at either room temperature or 4 °C measured by monocyte adhesion assays. DISCUSSION We have shown that placental micro- and nano-EVs are stable and retain biological activities following storage in PBS or media for 14 days at either room temperature or 4 °C.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunlin Su
- The Hospital of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Fudan University, China; Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Yunhui Tang
- The Hospital of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Fudan University, China; Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Fanghua Shen
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Suzhou Ninth People's Hospital, Suzhou, China; Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Matt Kang
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Auckland, New Zealand; Hub for Extracellular Vesicle Investigations, University of Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Katie Groom
- Liggins Institution, University of Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Michelle Wise
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Larry Chamley
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Auckland, New Zealand; Hub for Extracellular Vesicle Investigations, University of Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Qi Chen
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, University of Auckland, New Zealand; Hub for Extracellular Vesicle Investigations, University of Auckland, New Zealand.
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Bergamelli M, Martin H, Bénard M, Ausseil J, Mansuy JM, Hurbain I, Mouysset M, Groussolles M, Cartron G, Tanguy le Gac Y, Moinard N, Suberbielle E, Izopet J, Tscherning C, Raposo G, Gonzalez-Dunia D, D'Angelo G, Malnou CE. Human Cytomegalovirus Infection Changes the Pattern of Surface Markers of Small Extracellular Vesicles Isolated From First Trimester Placental Long-Term Histocultures. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:689122. [PMID: 34568315 PMCID: PMC8461063 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.689122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 07/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have increasingly been recognized as key players in a wide variety of physiological and pathological contexts, including during pregnancy. Notably, EVs appear both as possible biomarkers and as mediators involved in the communication of the placenta with the maternal and fetal sides. A better understanding of the physiological and pathological roles of EVs strongly depends on the development of adequate and reliable study models, specifically at the beginning of pregnancy where many adverse pregnancy outcomes have their origin. In this study, we describe the isolation of small EVs from a histoculture model of first trimester placental explants in normal conditions as well as upon infection by human cytomegalovirus. Using bead-based multiplex cytometry and electron microscopy combined with biochemical approaches, we characterized these small EVs and defined their associated markers and ultrastructure. We observed that infection led to changes in the expression level of several surface markers, without affecting the secretion and integrity of small EVs. Our findings lay the foundation for studying the functional role of EVs during early pregnancy, along with the identification of new predictive biomarkers for the severity and outcome of this congenital infection, which are still sorely lacking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mathilde Bergamelli
- Institut Toulousain des Maladies Infectieuses et Inflammatoires (Infinity), INSERM, CNRS, UPS, Université de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Hélène Martin
- Institut Toulousain des Maladies Infectieuses et Inflammatoires (Infinity), INSERM, CNRS, UPS, Université de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Mélinda Bénard
- Institut Toulousain des Maladies Infectieuses et Inflammatoires (Infinity), INSERM, CNRS, UPS, Université de Toulouse, Toulouse, France.,Service de Néonatalogie, CHU Toulouse, Hôpital des Enfants, Toulouse, France
| | - Jérôme Ausseil
- Institut Toulousain des Maladies Infectieuses et Inflammatoires (Infinity), INSERM, CNRS, UPS, Université de Toulouse, Toulouse, France.,Laboratoire de Biochimie, CHU Toulouse, Hôpital Rangueil, Toulouse, France
| | - Jean-Michel Mansuy
- Laboratoire de Virologie, CHU Toulouse, Hôpital Purpan, Toulouse, France
| | - Ilse Hurbain
- CNRS UMR 144, Structure et Compartiments Membranaires, Institut Curie, Université Paris Sciences et Lettres, Paris, France.,CNRS UMR 144, Plateforme d'Imagerie Cellulaire et Tissulaire (PICT-IBiSA), Institut Curie, Université Paris Sciences et Lettres, Paris, France
| | - Maïlys Mouysset
- Institut Toulousain des Maladies Infectieuses et Inflammatoires (Infinity), INSERM, CNRS, UPS, Université de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Marion Groussolles
- Institut Toulousain des Maladies Infectieuses et Inflammatoires (Infinity), INSERM, CNRS, UPS, Université de Toulouse, Toulouse, France.,Service de Diagnostic Prénatal, CHU Toulouse, Hôpital Paule de Viguier, Toulouse, France.,INSERM UMR 1027, UPS, Equipe SPHERE Epidémiologie et Analyses en Santé Publique: Risques, Maladies Chroniques et Handicaps, Université de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Géraldine Cartron
- Service de Gynécologie Obstétrique, CHU Toulouse, Hôpital Paule de Viguier, Toulouse, France
| | - Yann Tanguy le Gac
- Service de Gynécologie Obstétrique, CHU Toulouse, Hôpital Paule de Viguier, Toulouse, France
| | - Nathalie Moinard
- Développement Embryonnaire, Fertilité, Environnement (DEFE), INSERM UMR 1203, Université de Toulouse et Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France.,CECOS, Groupe d'Activité de Médecine de la Reproduction, CHU Toulouse, Hôpital Paule de Viguier, Toulouse, France
| | - Elsa Suberbielle
- Institut Toulousain des Maladies Infectieuses et Inflammatoires (Infinity), INSERM, CNRS, UPS, Université de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Jacques Izopet
- Institut Toulousain des Maladies Infectieuses et Inflammatoires (Infinity), INSERM, CNRS, UPS, Université de Toulouse, Toulouse, France.,Laboratoire de Virologie, CHU Toulouse, Hôpital Purpan, Toulouse, France
| | - Charlotte Tscherning
- Institut Toulousain des Maladies Infectieuses et Inflammatoires (Infinity), INSERM, CNRS, UPS, Université de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Graça Raposo
- CNRS UMR 144, Structure et Compartiments Membranaires, Institut Curie, Université Paris Sciences et Lettres, Paris, France.,CNRS UMR 144, Plateforme d'Imagerie Cellulaire et Tissulaire (PICT-IBiSA), Institut Curie, Université Paris Sciences et Lettres, Paris, France
| | - Daniel Gonzalez-Dunia
- Institut Toulousain des Maladies Infectieuses et Inflammatoires (Infinity), INSERM, CNRS, UPS, Université de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Gisela D'Angelo
- CNRS UMR 144, Structure et Compartiments Membranaires, Institut Curie, Université Paris Sciences et Lettres, Paris, France
| | - Cécile E Malnou
- Institut Toulousain des Maladies Infectieuses et Inflammatoires (Infinity), INSERM, CNRS, UPS, Université de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
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The Role and Clinical Interest of Extracellular Vesicles in Pregnancy and Ovarian Cancer. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9091257. [PMID: 34572444 PMCID: PMC8464910 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9091257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer and pregnancy are two states in which the host immune system is exposed to novel antigens. Indeed, both the tumor and placenta must invade tissues, remodel vasculature to establish a robust blood supply, and evade detection by the immune system. Interestingly, tumor and placenta tissue use similar mechanisms to induce these necessary changes. One mediator is emerging as a key player in invasion, vascular remodeling, and immune evasion: extracellular vesicles (EVs). Many studies have identified EVs as a key mediator of cell-to-cell communication. Specifically, the cargo carried by EVs, which includes proteins, nucleic acids, and lipids, can interact with cells to induce changes in the target cell ranging from gene expression to migration and metabolism. EVs can promote cell division and tissue invasion, immunosuppression, and angiogenesis which are essential for both cancer and pregnancy. In this review, we examine the role of EVs in ovarian cancer metastasis, chemoresistance, and immune modulation. We then focus on the role of EVs in pregnancy with special attention on the vascular remodeling and regulation of the maternal immune system. Lastly, we discuss the clinical utility of EVs as markers and therapeutics for ovarian cancer and pre-eclampsia.
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Proteome profiling of human placenta reveals developmental stage-dependent alterations in protein signature. Clin Proteomics 2021; 18:18. [PMID: 34372761 PMCID: PMC8351416 DOI: 10.1186/s12014-021-09324-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Placenta is a complex organ that plays a significant role in the maintenance of pregnancy health. It is a dynamic organ that undergoes dramatic changes in growth and development at different stages of gestation. In the first-trimester, the conceptus develops in a low oxygen environment that favors organogenesis in the embryo and cell proliferation and angiogenesis in the placenta; later in pregnancy, higher oxygen concentration is required to support the rapid growth of the fetus. This oxygen transition, which appears unique to the human placenta, must be finely tuned through successive rounds of protein signature alterations. This study compares placental proteome in normal first-trimester (FT) and term human placentas (TP). Methods Normal human first-trimester and term placental samples were collected and differentially expressed proteins were identified using two-dimensional liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Results Despite the overall similarities, 120 proteins were differently expressed in first and term placentas. Out of these, 72 were up-regulated and 48 were down-regulated in the first when compared with the full term placentas. Twenty out of 120 differently expressed proteins were sequenced, among them seven showed increased (GRP78, PDIA3, ENOA, ECH1, PRDX4, ERP29, ECHM), eleven decreased (TRFE, ALBU, K2C1, ACTG, CSH2, PRDX2, FABP5, HBG1, FABP4, K2C8, K1C9) expression in first-trimester compared to the full-term placentas and two proteins exclusively expressed in first-trimester placentas (MESD, MYDGF). Conclusion According to Reactome and PANTHER softwares, these proteins were mostly involved in response to chemical stimulus and stress, regulation of biological quality, programmed cell death, hemostatic and catabolic processes, protein folding, cellular oxidant detoxification, coagulation and retina homeostasis. Elucidation of alteration in protein signature during placental development would provide researchers with a better understanding of the critical biological processes of placentogenesis and delineate proteins involved in regulation of placental function during development. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12014-021-09324-y.
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Tang Y, Groom K, Chamley L, Chen Q. Melatonin, a Potential Therapeutic Agent for Preeclampsia, Reduces the Extrusion of Toxic Extracellular Vesicles from Preeclamptic Placentae. Cells 2021; 10:cells10081904. [PMID: 34440672 PMCID: PMC8393242 DOI: 10.3390/cells10081904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia, characterised by maternal endothelial cell activation, is triggered by toxic factors, such as placental extracellular vesicles (EVs) from a dysfunctional placenta. The increased oxidative stress seen in the preeclamptic placenta links to endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. The ER regulates protein folding and trafficking. When the ER is stressed, proteins are misfolded, and misfolded proteins are toxic. Misfolded proteins can be exported from cells, via EVs which target to other cells where the misfolded proteins may also be toxic. Melatonin is a hormone and antioxidant produced by the pineal gland and placenta. Levels of melatonin are reduced in preeclampsia. In this study we investigated whether melatonin treatment can change the nature of placental EVs that are released from a preeclamptic placenta. EVs were collected from preeclamptic (n = 6) and normotensive (n = 6) placental explants cultured in the presence or absence of melatonin for 18 h. Misfolded proteins were measured using a fluorescent compound, Thioflavin-T (ThT). Endothelial cells were exposed to placental EVs overnight. Endothelial cell activation was measured by the quantification of cell-surface ICAM-1 using a cell-based ELISA. EVs from preeclamptic placentae carried significantly (p < 0.001) more misfolded proteins than normotensive controls. Incubating preeclamptic placental explants in the presence of melatonin (1 µM and 10 µM) significantly (p < 0.001) reduced the misfolded proteins carried by EVs. Culturing endothelial cells in the presence of preeclamptic EVs significantly increased the expression of ICAM-1. This increased ICAM-1 expression was significantly reduced when the endothelial cells were exposed to preeclamptic EVs cultured in the presence of melatonin. This study demonstrates that melatonin reduces the amount of misfolded proteins carried by EVs from preeclamptic placentae and reduces the ability of these EVs to activate endothelial cells. Our study provides further preclinical support for the use of melatonin as a treatment for preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunhui Tang
- Department of Family Planning, The Hospital of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200081, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Auckland, 1142 Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Katie Groom
- National Women's Health, Auckland City Hospital, 1142 Auckland, New Zealand
- Liggins Institute, The University of Auckland, 1142 Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Larry Chamley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Auckland, 1142 Auckland, New Zealand
- Hub for Extracellular Vesicle Investigations, The University of Auckland, 1142 Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Qi Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Auckland, 1142 Auckland, New Zealand
- Hub for Extracellular Vesicle Investigations, The University of Auckland, 1142 Auckland, New Zealand
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Srinivasan V, Melbourne A, Oyston C, James JL, Clark AR. Multiscale and multimodal imaging of utero-placental anatomy and function in pregnancy. Placenta 2021; 112:111-122. [PMID: 34329969 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2021.07.290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 07/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Placental structures at the nano-, micro-, and macro scale each play important roles in contributing to its function. As such, quantifying the dynamic way in which placental structure evolves during pregnancy is critical to both clinical diagnosis of pregnancy disorders, and mechanistic understanding of their pathophysiology. Imaging the placenta, both exvivo and invivo, can provide a wealth of structural and/or functional information. This review outlines how imaging across modalities and spatial scales can ultimately come together to improve our understanding of normal and pathological pregnancies. We discuss how imaging technologies are evolving to provide new insights into placental physiology across disciplines, and how advanced computational algorithms can be used alongside state-of-the-art imaging to obtain a holistic view of placental structure and its associated functions to improve our understanding of placental function in health and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrew Melbourne
- School of Biomedical Engineering & Imaging Sciences, Kings College London, UK
| | - Charlotte Oyston
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Joanna L James
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Alys R Clark
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland, New Zealand
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Gao J, Tang Y, Sun X, Chen Q, Peng Y, Tsai CJY, Chen Q. Downregulation of Ribosomal Contents and Kinase Activities Is Associated with the Inhibitive Effect on the Growth of Group B Streptococcus Induced by Placental Extracellular Vesicles. BIOLOGY 2021; 10:664. [PMID: 34356519 PMCID: PMC8301483 DOI: 10.3390/biology10070664] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Like many other cell types, the human placenta produces large amounts of extracellular vesicles (EVs). Increasing evidence has shown that placental EVs contribute to the regulation of maternal immune and vascular systems during pregnancy via the transfer of their cargos. In this study, we investigated the effect of placental EVs on the growth of opportunistic pathogens that commonly colonise the female reproductive tract. METHODS Gram-positive bacterium Group B Streptococcus (GBS) and Gram-negative bacterium Escherichia coli (E. coli) were treated with placental EVs that were collected from placental explant cultures, and the growth, susceptibility, and resistance to antibiotics of the bacteria were measured. In addition, comparative proteomics analysis was also performed for the GBS with or without exposure to placental EVs. RESULTS When treated with placental micro-EVs or nano-EVs, the GBS growth curve entered the stationary phase earlier, compared to untreated GBS. Treatment with placental EVs also inhibited the growth of GBS on solid medium, compared to untreated GBS. However, these biological activities were not seen in E. coli. This attenuative effect required interaction of placental EVs with GBS but not phagocytosis. In addition, the susceptibility or resistance to antibiotics of GBS or E. coli was not directly affected by treatment with placental EVs. The proteomic and Western blotting analysis of GBS that had been treated with placental EVs suggested that the downregulation of cellular components and proteins associated with phosphorylation and cell energy in GBS may contribute to these attenuative effects. CONCLUSION We demonstrated the attenuative effect of the growth of GBS treated with placental EVs. Downregulation of cellular components and proteins associated with phosphorylation and cell energy may contribute to the physiological changes in GBS treated with placental EVs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Gao
- Department of Medical Laboratory, The Hospital of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200081, China; (J.G.); (Y.P.)
| | - Yunhui Tang
- Department of Family Planning, The Hospital of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200081, China
| | - Xinyi Sun
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand; (X.S.); (Q.C.)
| | - Qiujing Chen
- Institute of Cardiovascular Disease, Ruijing Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai 200081, China;
| | - Yiqian Peng
- Department of Medical Laboratory, The Hospital of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200081, China; (J.G.); (Y.P.)
| | - Catherine Jia-Yun Tsai
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand;
| | - Qi Chen
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, The University of Auckland, Auckland 1142, New Zealand; (X.S.); (Q.C.)
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Tang Y, Zhang X, Zhang Y, Feng H, Gao J, Liu H, Guo F, Chen Q. Senescent Changes and Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress May Be Involved in the Pathogenesis of Missed Miscarriage. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:656549. [PMID: 34222231 PMCID: PMC8247570 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.656549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Senescence is involved in many complications of pregnancy. However, whether senescent changes are also associated with missed miscarriage has not been fully investigated. Methods The levels of p16, p21, and γH2AX, markers of senescence, were measured in placentas collected from women with missed miscarriage by immunohistochemistry and Western blotting. Levels of misfolded proteins in missed miscarriage placentas or normal first-trimester placenta that had been treated with H2O2 (100 μM) or extracellular vesicles (EVs) collected from missed miscarriage placental explant culture were measured by fluorescent compound, thioflavin-T. The production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) by missed miscarriage placentas was measured by CellROX® Deep Red. Results Increased levels of p16, p21, and γH2AX were presented in missed miscarriage placentas compared to controls. Increased levels of misfolded proteins were shown in missed miscarriage placentas, but not in EVs that were collected from missed miscarriage placentas. The ROS production was significantly increased in missed miscarriage placental explant cultures. Increased levels of misfolded proteins were seen in the normal first-trimester placenta that had been treated with H2O2 compared to untreated. Conclusion Our data demonstrate that there are increases in senescence and endoplasmic reticulum stress and ROS production in missed miscarriage placenta. Oxidative stress and an accumulation of misfolded proteins in missed miscarriage placentas may contribute to the changes of senescence and endoplasmic reticulum stress seen in missed miscarriage placentas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yunhui Tang
- Department of Family Planning, The Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinyan Zhang
- The Institution of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yi Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Hua Feng
- Department of Cervical Disease, The Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Gao
- Department of Medical Laboratory, The Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Haiyan Liu
- Department of Obstetrics, The Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fang Guo
- Department of Obstetrics, The Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qi Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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36
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Jaremek A, Jeyarajah MJ, Jaju Bhattad G, Renaud SJ. Omics Approaches to Study Formation and Function of Human Placental Syncytiotrophoblast. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:674162. [PMID: 34211975 PMCID: PMC8240757 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.674162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Proper development of the placenta is vital for pregnancy success. The placenta regulates exchange of nutrients and gases between maternal and fetal blood and produces hormones essential to maintain pregnancy. The placental cell lineage primarily responsible for performing these functions is a multinucleated entity called syncytiotrophoblast. Syncytiotrophoblast is continuously replenished throughout pregnancy by fusion of underlying progenitor cells called cytotrophoblasts. Dysregulated syncytiotrophoblast formation disrupts the integrity of the placental exchange surface, which can be detrimental to maternal and fetal health. Moreover, various factors produced by syncytiotrophoblast enter into maternal circulation, where they profoundly impact maternal physiology and are promising diagnostic indicators of pregnancy health. Despite the multifunctional importance of syncytiotrophoblast for pregnancy success, there is still much to learn about how its formation is regulated in normal and diseased states. ‘Omics’ approaches are gaining traction in many fields to provide a more holistic perspective of cell, tissue, and organ function. Herein, we review human syncytiotrophoblast development and current model systems used for its study, discuss how ‘omics’ strategies have been used to provide multidimensional insights into its formation and function, and highlight limitations of current platforms as well as consider future avenues for exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Jaremek
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Mariyan J Jeyarajah
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Gargi Jaju Bhattad
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Stephen J Renaud
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada.,Children's Health Research Institute, Lawson Health Research Institute, London, ON, Canada
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Extracellularly Released Calreticulin Induced by Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress Impairs Syncytialization of Cytotrophoblast Model BeWo Cells. Cells 2021; 10:cells10061305. [PMID: 34073978 PMCID: PMC8225044 DOI: 10.3390/cells10061305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2021] [Revised: 05/20/2021] [Accepted: 05/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The pregnancy-specific syndrome preeclampsia is a major cause of maternal mortality throughout the world. The initial insult resulting in the development of preeclampsia is inadequate trophoblast invasion, which may lead to reduced maternal perfusion of the placenta and placental dysfunction, such as insufficient trophoblast syncytialization. Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress has been implicated in the pathology of preeclampsia and serves as the major risk factor. Our previous studies suggested critical roles of calreticulin (CRT), which is an ER-resident stress response protein, in extravillous trophoblast invasion and cytotrophoblast syncytialization. Here, we studied the mechanism by which ER stress exposes the placenta to the risk of preeclampsia. We found that CRT was upregulated in the serum samples, but not in the placental specimens, from preeclamptic women. By using BeWo cells, an established model of cytotrophoblasts that syncytialize in the presence of forskolin, we demonstrated that thapsigargin-induced ER stress caused extracellular release of CRT from BeWo cells and that the extracellular CRT suppressed forskolin-induced release of β-human chorionic gonadotropin and altered subcellular localization of E-cadherin, which is a key adhesion molecule associated with syncytialization. Our results together provide evidence that induction of ER stress leads to extracellular CRT release, which may contribute to placental dysfunction by suppressing cytotrophoblast syncytialization.
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38
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Llobat L. Extracellular vesicles and domestic animal reproduction. Res Vet Sci 2021; 136:166-173. [PMID: 33647595 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2021.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 01/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Embryo implantation is a complex process in which significant changes occur continually in both the corpora lutea and in the endometrium of females and which varies depending on the embryonic, pre-implantation, or fetal stages. However, at all stages, correct maternal-embryonic communication is essential. In the last few years, a new intercellular communication tool, mediated by extracellular vesicles (EVs), has emerged. Many authors agree on the relevant role of EVs in correct communication between the mother and the embryo, as a fundamental system for the pregnancy to reach term and embryonic development to occur correctly. This review analyzes current information on known EVs, their main functions, and their role in implantation and embryonic development in domestic animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lola Llobat
- Grupo de Fisiopatología de la Reproducción, Departamento Producción y Sanidad Animal, Salud Pública y Ciencia y Tecnología de los Alimentos, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain.
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39
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Burkova EE, Sedykh SE, Nevinsky GA. Human Placenta Exosomes: Biogenesis, Isolation, Composition, and Prospects for Use in Diagnostics. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22042158. [PMID: 33671527 PMCID: PMC7926398 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22042158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Exosomes are 40–100 nm nanovesicles participating in intercellular communication and transferring various bioactive proteins, mRNAs, miRNAs, and lipids. During pregnancy, the placenta releases exosomes into the maternal circulation. Placental exosomes are detected in the maternal blood even in the first trimester of pregnancy and their numbers increase significantly by the end of pregnancy. Exosomes are necessary for the normal functioning of the placenta and fetal development. Effects of exosomes on target cells depend not only on their concentration but also on their intrinsic components. The biochemical composition of the placental exosomes may cause various complications of pregnancy. Some studies relate the changes in the composition of nanovesicles to placental dysfunction. Isolation of placental exosomes from the blood of pregnant women and the study of protein, lipid, and nucleic composition can lead to the development of methods for early diagnosis of pregnancy pathologies. This review describes the biogenesis of exosomes, methods of their isolation, analyzes their biochemical composition, and considers the prospects for using exosomes to diagnose pregnancy pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evgeniya E. Burkova
- SB RAS Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (S.E.S.); (G.A.N.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +7-(383)-363-51-27
| | - Sergey E. Sedykh
- SB RAS Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (S.E.S.); (G.A.N.)
- Department of Natural Sciences, Novosibirsk State University, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Georgy A. Nevinsky
- SB RAS Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (S.E.S.); (G.A.N.)
- Department of Natural Sciences, Novosibirsk State University, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
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40
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Kupper N, Huppertz B. The endogenous exposome of the pregnant mother: Placental extracellular vesicles and their effect on the maternal system. Mol Aspects Med 2021; 87:100955. [PMID: 33612320 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2021.100955] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2020] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
During pregnancy, there is an intense crosstalk between mother and placenta. During the entire time of pregnancy, the maternal system deals with a huge amount of foreign (fetal) material released from the placenta, which can be referred to as placental exposome. Besides the release of hormones and growth factors, the placenta releases a variety of extracellular vesicles into maternal blood. These vesicles contain specific molecules including proteins, lipids, DNA as well as miRNA, all of which may have specific sites and modes of action on maternal cells. During normal pregnancy, the fine-tuning of factors and vesicles helps maintaining a viable and healthy pregnancy. However, in pregnancy pathologies such as preeclampsia, quantity and quality of the placenta-derived vesicles are altered leading to a deleterious effect on the maternal vascular system. This review focuses on the different types of placenta-derived extracellular vesicles in pregnancy with special emphasis on the interplay between these placental vesicles and the maternal system. Additionally, it displays new techniques and ideas for the analysis of the placental exposome with placental extracellular vesicles as a key aspect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadja Kupper
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Berthold Huppertz
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.
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41
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Nair S, Ormazabal V, Lappas M, McIntyre HD, Salomon C. Extracellular vesicles and their potential role inducing changes in maternal insulin sensitivity during gestational diabetes mellitus. Am J Reprod Immunol 2021; 85:e13361. [PMID: 33064367 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2020] [Revised: 09/11/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is one of the most common endocrine disorders during gestation and affects around 15% of all pregnancies worldwide, paralleling the global increase in obesity and type 2 diabetes. Normal pregnancies are critically dependent on the development of maternal insulin resistance balanced by an increased capacity to secrete insulin, which allows for the allocation of nutrients for adequate foetal growth and development. Several factors including placental hormones, inflammatory mediators and nutrients have been proposed to alter insulin sensitivity and insulin response and underpin the pathological outcomes of GDM. However, other factors may also be involved in the regulation of maternal metabolism and a complete understanding of GDM pathophysiology requires the identification of these factors, and the mechanisms associated with them. Recent studies highlight the potential utility of tissue-specific extracellular vesicles (EVs) in the diagnosis of disease onset and treatment monitoring for several pregnancy-related complications, including GDM. To date, there is a paucity of data defining changes in the release, content, bioactivity and diagnostic utility of circulating EVs in pregnancies complicated by GDM. Placental EVs may engage in paracellular interactions including local cell-to-cell communication between the cell constituents of the placenta and contiguous maternal tissues, and/or distal interactions involving the release of placental EVs into biological fluids and their transport to a remote site of action. Hence, the aim of this review is to discuss the biogenesis, isolation methods and role of EVs in the physiopathology of GDM, including changes in maternal insulin sensitivity during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumyalekshmi Nair
- Exosome Biology Laboratory, Centre for Clinical Diagnostics, University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Valeska Ormazabal
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Martha Lappas
- Obstetrics, Nutrition and Endocrinology Group, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Vic., Australia.,Mercy Perinatal Research Centre, Mercy Hospital for Women, Heidelberg, Vic., Australia
| | - H David McIntyre
- Mater Research, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, Qld, Australia
| | - Carlos Salomon
- Exosome Biology Laboratory, Centre for Clinical Diagnostics, University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia.,Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Immunology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Concepción, Concepción, Chile
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42
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Kumar B, Dey AK, Saha S, Singh AK, Kshetrapal P, Wadhwa N, Thiruvengadam R, Desiraju BK, Bhatnagar S, Salunke DM, Rashid F, Malakar D, Maiti TK. Dynamic Alteration in the Vaginal Secretory Proteome across the Early and Mid-Trimesters of Pregnancy. J Proteome Res 2021; 20:1190-1205. [PMID: 33497241 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jproteome.0c00433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Pregnancy is characterized by intense physiological and structural alterations in the vagina, cervix, and overlying fetal membranes. High vaginal fluid (HVF) is a proximal fluid that covers the lower part of the female reproductive system and the severity of vaginal pathology often adversely affects pregnancy outcomes. To identify the correlation of vaginal fluid proteome dynamics and physiological changes during the progression of pregnancy, a longitudinal study was performed on 20 pregnant women who delivered a baby in >37 weeks without any complications. SWATH-MS-based label-free quantitative proteomics was performed to profile the HVF proteome at three time points defined as V1 (7-12 weeks), V2 (18-20 weeks), and V3 (26-28 weeks). Linear mixed-effect models were used to estimate protein abundance as a function of the period of gestational age. In this study, we identified 1015 HVF proteins and 61 of them were significantly altered until late second trimester. Our result demonstrates that the HVF proteins reveal gestational age-specific expression patterns and the function of these proteins is associated with tissue remodeling, organ development, and microbial defense. Our study provides an opportunity to monitor the underlying physiology of pregnancy that may be further probed for the biomarker identification in pregnancy-related adverse outcomes. Data are available via ProteomeXchange with identifiers PXD014846 and PXD021811.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhoj Kumar
- Regional Centre for Biotechnology, NCR Biotech Science Cluster, Faridabad 121001, India
| | - Amit Kumar Dey
- Regional Centre for Biotechnology, NCR Biotech Science Cluster, Faridabad 121001, India
| | - Sandhini Saha
- Regional Centre for Biotechnology, NCR Biotech Science Cluster, Faridabad 121001, India
| | - Abhishek Kumar Singh
- Regional Centre for Biotechnology, NCR Biotech Science Cluster, Faridabad 121001, India
| | - Pallavi Kshetrapal
- Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, NCR Biotech Science Cluster, Faridabad 121001, India
| | - Nitya Wadhwa
- Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, NCR Biotech Science Cluster, Faridabad 121001, India
| | - Ramachandran Thiruvengadam
- Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, NCR Biotech Science Cluster, Faridabad 121001, India
| | - Bapu Koundinya Desiraju
- Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, NCR Biotech Science Cluster, Faridabad 121001, India
| | - Shinjini Bhatnagar
- Translational Health Science and Technology Institute, NCR Biotech Science Cluster, Faridabad 121001, India
| | - Dinakar M Salunke
- Regional Centre for Biotechnology, NCR Biotech Science Cluster, Faridabad 121001, India.,International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Faraz Rashid
- Sciex, 121 UdyogVihar Phase IV, Gurgaon 122015, India
| | | | - Tushar Kanti Maiti
- Regional Centre for Biotechnology, NCR Biotech Science Cluster, Faridabad 121001, India
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43
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Block LN, Bowman BD, Schmidt JK, Keding LT, Stanic AK, Golos TG. The promise of placental extracellular vesicles: models and challenges for diagnosing placental dysfunction in utero†. Biol Reprod 2021; 104:27-57. [PMID: 32856695 PMCID: PMC7786267 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2020] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Monitoring the health of a pregnancy is of utmost importance to both the fetus and the mother. The diagnosis of pregnancy complications typically occurs after the manifestation of symptoms, and limited preventative measures or effective treatments are available. Traditionally, pregnancy health is evaluated by analyzing maternal serum hormone levels, genetic testing, ultrasonographic imaging, and monitoring maternal symptoms. However, researchers have reported a difference in extracellular vesicle (EV) quantity and cargo between healthy and at-risk pregnancies. Thus, placental EVs (PEVs) may help to understand normal and aberrant placental development, monitor pregnancy health in terms of developing placental pathologies, and assess the impact of environmental influences, such as infection, on pregnancy. The diagnostic potential of PEVs could allow for earlier detection of pregnancy complications via noninvasive sampling and frequent monitoring. Understanding how PEVs serve as a means of communication with maternal cells and recognizing their potential utility as a readout of placental health have sparked a growing interest in basic and translational research. However, to date, PEV research with animal models lags behind human studies. The strength of animal pregnancy models is that they can be used to assess placental pathologies in conjunction with isolation of PEVs from fluid samples at different time points throughout gestation. Assessing PEV cargo in animals within normal and complicated pregnancies will accelerate the translation of PEV analysis into the clinic for potential use in prognostics. We propose that appropriate animal models of human pregnancy complications must be established in the PEV field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsey N Block
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Brittany D Bowman
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Jenna Kropp Schmidt
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Logan T Keding
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Aleksandar K Stanic
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Thaddeus G Golos
- Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA
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44
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Favaro RR, Murrieta-Coxca JM, Gutiérrez-Samudio RN, Morales-Prieto DM, Markert UR. Immunomodulatory properties of extracellular vesicles in the dialogue between placental and immune cells. Am J Reprod Immunol 2020; 85:e13383. [PMID: 33251688 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13383] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicle (EV)-mediated communication has been implicated in the cooperative alliance between trophoblast and immune cells toward maternal tolerance and placentation. Syncytiotrophoblast cells secrete EVs directly into the maternal circulation, which are taken up by immune cells, endothelial cells, and other cell types. Initial evidence also shows that EVs produced by immune cells are, in turn, incorporated by trophoblast cells and modulate placental responses. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), proteins, and lipid mediators transported in EVs are able to influence proliferation, differentiation, cytokine production, and immunological responses of recipient cells. The molecular alphabet and cellular targets involved in this dialogue are being revealed. Nevertheless, several questions regarding the whole content, surface markers, and biological functions of EVs still remain to be investigated in both physiological and pathological conditions. Analysis of circulating EVs in maternal blood has the potential to serve as a minimally invasive approach to monitoring placental functions and immunological features of pregnancy, aiding in the diagnostics of complications. This review addresses the immunomodulatory properties of EVs and their tasks in the communication between placental and immune cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodolfo R Favaro
- Placenta Lab, Department of Obstetrics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Jose Martín Murrieta-Coxca
- Placenta Lab, Department of Obstetrics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany.,RNA Bioinformatics, High Throughput Analysis, Faculty of Mathematics and Computer Science, Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, Jena, Germany
| | | | | | - Udo R Markert
- Placenta Lab, Department of Obstetrics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
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45
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Zabel RR, Bär C, Ji J, Schultz R, Hammer M, Groten T, Schleussner E, Morales-Prieto DM, Markert UR, Favaro RR. Enrichment and characterization of extracellular vesicles from ex vivo one-sided human placenta perfusion. Am J Reprod Immunol 2020; 86:e13377. [PMID: 33175429 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13377] [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: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Extracellular vesicles (EVs) released by the placenta are packed with biological information and play a major role in fetomaternal communication. Here, we describe a comprehensive set-up for the enrichment and characterization of EVs from human placenta perfusion and their application in further assays. METHOD OF STUDY Human term placentas were used for 3 h ex vivo one-sided perfusions to simulate the intervillous circulation. Thereafter, populations of small (sEVs) and large EV (lEVs) were enriched from placental perfusate via serial ultracentrifugation. Following, EV populations were characterized regarding their size, protein concentration, RNA levels, expression of surface markers as well as their uptake and miRNA transfer to recipient cells. RESULTS The sEV and lEV fractions from an entire perfusate yielded, respectively, 294 ± 32 µg and 525 ± 96 µg of protein equivalents and 2.6 ± 0.5 µg and 3.6 ± 0.9 µg of RNA. The sEV fraction had a mean diameter of 117 ± 47 nm, and the lEV fraction presented 236 ± 54 nm. CD63 was strongly detected by dot blot in sEVs, whereas only traces of this marker were found in lEVs. Both EV fractions were positive for the trophoblast marker PLAP (placental alkaline phosphatase) and annexin A1. EV internalization in immune cells was visualized by confocal microscopy, and the transfer of placental miRNAs was detected by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR). CONCLUSIONS Enriched EV populations showed characteristic features of sEVs and lEVs. EV uptake and transfer of miRNAs to recipient cells demonstrated their functional integrity. Therefore, we advocate the ex vivo one-sided placenta perfusion as a robust approach for the collection of placental EVs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel R Zabel
- Placenta-Lab, Department of Obstetrics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Christin Bär
- Placenta-Lab, Department of Obstetrics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Jinlu Ji
- Placenta-Lab, Department of Obstetrics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Rowena Schultz
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Martin Hammer
- Department of Ophthalmology, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Tanja Groten
- Placenta-Lab, Department of Obstetrics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | | | | | - Udo R Markert
- Placenta-Lab, Department of Obstetrics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
| | - Rodolfo R Favaro
- Placenta-Lab, Department of Obstetrics, Jena University Hospital, Jena, Germany
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The Biological Function of Extracellular Vesicles during Fertilization, Early Embryo-Maternal Crosstalk and Their Involvement in Reproduction: Review and Overview. Biomolecules 2020; 10:biom10111510. [PMID: 33158009 PMCID: PMC7693816 DOI: 10.3390/biom10111510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 10/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Secretory extracellular vesicles (EVs) are membrane-enclosed microparticles that mediate cell to cell communication in proximity to, or distant from, the cell of origin. Cells release a heterogeneous spectrum of EVs depending on their physiologic and metabolic state. Extracellular vesicles are generally classified as either exosomes or microvesicles depending on their size and biogenesis. Extracellular vesicles mediate temporal and spatial interaction during many events in sexual reproduction and supporting embryo-maternal dialogue. Although many omic technologies provide detailed understanding of the molecular cargo of EVs, the difficulty in obtaining populations of homogeneous EVs makes difficult to interpret the molecular profile of the molecules derived from a miscellaneous EV population. Notwithstanding, molecular characterization of EVs isolated in physiological and pathological conditions may increase our understanding of reproductive and obstetric diseases and assist the search for potential non-invasive biomarkers. Moreover, a more precise vision of the cocktail of biomolecules inside the EVs mediating communication between the embryo and mother could provide new insights to optimize the therapeutic action and safety of EV use.
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47
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Extracellular vesicles: Mediators of embryo-maternal crosstalk during pregnancy and a new weapon to fight against infertility. Eur J Cell Biol 2020; 99:151125. [PMID: 33059931 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejcb.2020.151125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In modern-day life, infertility is one of the major issues that can affect an individual, both physically and psychologically. Several anatomical, physiological, and genetic factors might contribute to the infertility of an individual. Intercellular communication between trophectoderm and endometrial epithelium triggers successful embryo implantation and thereby establishes pregnancy. Recent studies demonstrate that Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are emerging as one of the crucial components that are involved in embryo-maternal communication and promote pregnancy. Membrane-bound EVs release several secreted factors within the uterine fluid, which mediates an intermolecular transfer of EVs' cargos between blastocysts and endometrium. Emerging evidences indicate that several events like imbalance in the release of endometrial or placenta-derived EVs (exosomes/MVs), uptake of their content, failure of embryo selection might lead to implantation failure. Here in this review, we have discussed the current knowledge of the involvement of EVs in maternal-fetal communications during implantation and also highlighted the EVs' rejuvenating ability to overcome infertility-related issues. We also discussed the alteration of the EVs' cargo in different pathological conditions that lead to infertility. Therefore, this review would give a better understanding of EVs' contribution in successful embryo implantation, which could help in the development of new diagnostic tools and cell-free biologics to improve the in vivo reproductive process and to treat infertility by restoring normal reproductive functions.
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Endoplasmic reticulum stress occurs in association with the extrusion of toxic extracellular vesicles from human placentae treated with antiphospholipid antibodies. Clin Sci (Lond) 2020; 134:459-472. [PMID: 32068238 PMCID: PMC7056451 DOI: 10.1042/cs20191245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Revised: 02/06/2020] [Accepted: 02/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Antiphospholipid autoantibodies (aPLs), a major maternal risk factor for preeclampsia, are taken into the syncytiotrophoblast where they bind intracellular vesicles and mitochondria. Subsequently, large quantities of extracellular vesicles (EVs) extruded from syncytiotrophoblast into the maternal circulation are altered such that they cause maternal endothelial cell activation. However, the mechanism driving this change is unknown. First trimester placental explants were treated with aPL for 18 h. The EVs were then collected by different centrifugation. The levels of HSP 70, misfolded proteins, caspase 8 activity, and Mixed Lineage Kinase domain-Like (MLKL) were measured in placental explants and EVs. In addition, the levels of TNF-α and CD95 in conditioned medium were also measured. Treating placental explants with aPL caused an increase in levels of HSP 70, misfolded proteins and MLKL in placental explants and EVs. Increased activity of caspase 8 was also seen in placental explants. Higher levels of TNF-α were seen conditioned medium from aPL-treated placental explant cultures. aPLs appear to induce endoplasmic reticulum stress in the syncytiotrophoblast in a manner that involved caspase 8 and TNF-α. To avoid accumulation of the associated misfolded proteins and MLKL, the syncytiotrophoblast exports these potentially dangerous proteins in EVs. It is likely that the dangerous proteins that are loaded into placental EVs in preeclampsia contribute to dysfunction of the maternal cells.
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Schuster J, Cheng SB, Padbury J, Sharma S. Placental extracellular vesicles and pre-eclampsia. Am J Reprod Immunol 2020; 85:e13297. [PMID: 32619308 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Pre-eclampsia is a hypertensive disease of pregnancy characterized by new-onset hypertension, with either proteinuria and/or organ dysfunction. Pre-eclampsia is a leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality; however, the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms are not well understood. There is consensus that the underlying mechanism(s) resulting in pre-eclampsia is centered around abnormal placentation, inadequate spiral-artery remodeling, and deficiency in trophoblast invasion, resulting in impaired maternal blood flow to the placenta and a release of signals and/or inflammatory mediators into maternal circulation triggering the systemic manifestations of pre-eclampsia. ER stress, resulting in impaired autophagy and placental release of aggregated proteins, may also confer systemic stress to maternal organs in pre-eclampsia. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), lipid-bilayer enclosed structures containing macromolecules including proteins, miRNA, and other important nucleotides, have been suggested to play an important role in this maternal-fetal communication. Circulating EVs are present in greater quantity in the plasma of pre-eclampsia subjects compared to normal pregnancy, and the placental derived EVs have been shown to have altered protein and RNA cargo. In this review, we will focus on EVs and their role in pre-eclampsia, specifically their role in immune responses, inflammation, altered angiogenesis, and endothelial dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Schuster
- Department of Pediatrics, Women and Infants Hospital of Rhode Island, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Shi-Bin Cheng
- Department of Pediatrics, Women and Infants Hospital of Rhode Island, Providence, RI, USA
| | - James Padbury
- Department of Pediatrics, Women and Infants Hospital of Rhode Island, Providence, RI, USA
| | - Surendra Sharma
- Department of Pediatrics, Women and Infants Hospital of Rhode Island, Providence, RI, USA
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Extracellular Vesicles as Signaling Mediators and Disease Biomarkers across Biological Barriers. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21072514. [PMID: 32260425 PMCID: PMC7178048 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21072514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2020] [Revised: 03/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles act as shuttle vectors or signal transducers that can deliver specific biological information and have progressively emerged as key regulators of organized communities of cells within multicellular organisms in health and disease. Here, we survey the evolutionary origin, general characteristics, and biological significance of extracellular vesicles as mediators of intercellular signaling, discuss the various subtypes of extracellular vesicles thus far described and the principal methodological approaches to their study, and review the role of extracellular vesicles in tumorigenesis, immunity, non-synaptic neural communication, vascular-neural communication through the blood-brain barrier, renal pathophysiology, and embryo-fetal/maternal communication through the placenta.
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