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Zhang Y, Tang L, Liu H, Cheng Y. The Multiple Functions of HB-EGF in Female Reproduction and Related Cancer: Molecular Mechanisms and Targeting Strategies. Reprod Sci 2024:10.1007/s43032-024-01454-6. [PMID: 38424408 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-024-01454-6] [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: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
Heparin-binding growth factor (HB-EGF) is a member of the epidermal growth factor (EGF) ligand family which has a crucial role in women's health. However, there is a lack of comprehensive review to summarize the significance of HB-EGF. Therefore, this work first described the expression patterns of HB-EGF in the endometrium and ovary of different species and gestational time. Then, the focus was on exploring how it promotes the successful implantation and regulates the process of decidualization and the function of ovarian granulosa cells as an intermediate molecule. Otherwise, we also focused on the clinical and prognostic significance of HB-EGF in female-related cancers (including ovarian cancer, cervical cancer, and endometrial cancer) and breast cancer. Lastly, the article also summarizes the current drugs targeting HB-EGF in the treatment of ovarian cancer and breast cancer. Overall, these studies found that the expression of HB-EGF in the endometrium is spatiotemporal and species-specific. And it mediates the dialogue between the blastocyst and endometrium, promoting synchronous development of the blastocyst and endometrium as an intermediate molecule. HB-EGF may serve as a potentially valuable prognostic clinical indicator in tumors. And the specific inhibitor of HB-EGF (CRM197) has a certain anti-tumor ability, which can exert synergistic anti-tumor effects with conventional chemotherapy drugs. However, it also suggests that more research is needed in the future to elucidate its specific mechanisms and to accommodate clinical studies with a larger sample size to clarify its clinical value.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuwei Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 99 Zhang Zhidong Road, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Lujia Tang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 99 Zhang Zhidong Road, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, People's Republic of China
| | - Hua Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 99 Zhang Zhidong Road, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yanxiang Cheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, 99 Zhang Zhidong Road, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, People's Republic of China.
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Hesam Shariati MB, Seghinsara AM, Shokrzadeh N, Niknafs B. The effect of fludrocortisone on the uterine receptivity partially mediated by ERK1/2-mTOR pathway. J Cell Physiol 2019; 234:20098-20110. [PMID: 30968418 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.28609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2019] [Revised: 03/10/2019] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Implantation of embryos needs endometrial receptivity. Mineralocorticoids is one of the causes influencing the implantation window. This study targeted to evaluation fludrocortisone different properties on endometrial receptivity. The objective of this study was to assess whether treatment with fludrocortisone could impact the expression of diverse genes and proteins that are involved in uterine receptivity in mice. In this study, 40 female adult BALB/c mice were used. The samples were allocated to four groups of ten. Control group (C) received: vehicle; fludrocortisone group (FCA): received 1.5 mg/kg fludrocortisone; PP242 group (PP242): received 30 mg/kg PP242; fludrocortisone+PP242 group (FCA+PP242): received fludrocortisone and PP242. Mice were killed on window implantation day after mating and confirmed pregnancy. The endometrial epithelium of mouse was collected to assess mRNA expression of leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), mucin-1 (MUC1), heparin-binding epidermal growth factor (HB-EGF), (Msx.1), miRNA Let-7a, and miRNA 223-3p as well as protein expression of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2), mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), and eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E-binding protein 1 (4E-BP1) in the uterine using real-time PCR and western blot, respectively. In comparison with the control group, fludrocortisone administration upregulated the expression of LIF, HB-EGF, Msx.1, miRNA Let-7a, ERK1/2, and mTOR in the epithelial endometrium. The PP242-treated group demonstrated a significant rise in the expression of MUC1, miRNA 223-3p and a remarkable decline in ERK1/2 and p-4E-BP1 levels in comparison with the control group. Combination therapy of (FCA+PP242) resulted in a remarkable rise in LIF, Msx-1, HB-EGF, ERK1/2, and mTOR levels, in comparison with the PP242 group. Furthermore, combination therapy of (FCA+PP242) downregulated the expression of MUC1 in comparison with the PP242-treated group. According to the results, fludrocortisone affected uterine receptivity possibly by means of modulating the expression of genes involved in the uterine receptivity and activation of the ERK1/2-mTOR pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Abbas Majdi Seghinsara
- Department of Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Naser Shokrzadeh
- Infertility and Reproductive Health research center, Health Research Institute, Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran
| | - Behrooz Niknafs
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran
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Wang H, Shi G, Li M, Fan H, Ma H, Sheng L. Correlation of IL-1 and HB-EGF with endometrial receptivity. Exp Ther Med 2018; 16:5130-5136. [PMID: 30542468 PMCID: PMC6257333 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2018.6840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2018] [Accepted: 09/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Fluctuations of interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and heparin-binding epidermal growth factor (HB-EGF) in endometrial receptivity were detected. Seventy-two patients receiving in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET) for the first time in Yantaishan Hospital from July 2015 to September 2015 due to infertility were selected. The serum and follicular fluid of patients in ovulation-promoting cycle were collected; the levels of IL-1β and HB-EGF in serum and follicular fluid were detected via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and the levels of serum estradiol (E2), progesterone (P), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) were detected. The endometria in early follicular phase and middle luteal phase were collected, and the mRNA expression levels of IL-1β and HB-EGF were evaluated by reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR). Patients were divided into two groups, and the implantation group (n=33) and the non-implantation group (n=39), according to whether embryos were implanted and the general data. In IVF-ET, the levels of IL-1β and HB-EGF in follicular fluid and middle luteal phase, the level of serum IL-1β on human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) day and embryo transfer (ET) day, the levels of E2, FSH and LH on HCG day in implantation group were obviously higher than those in non-implantation group (p<0.05); the level of P on ET day in implantation group was significantly higher than that in non-implantation group (p<0.05); the expression levels of IL-1β and HB-EGF in endometrium in middle luteal phase in implantation group were higher than those in non-implantation group (p<0.05); the expression levels of IL-1β and HB-EGF in endometrium were positively correlated with the levels of E2 and P, and endometrial thickness (p<0.05). IL-1β and HB-EGF may improve the endometrial receptivity to embryo, thus affecting the embryo implantation rate, through the synergistic action with E2 and P, so they may be the indexes of predicting the IVF-ET pregnancy outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Wang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Yantaishan Hospital, Yantai, Shandong 264001, P.R. China
| | - Guangwen Shi
- Department of Obstetrics, People's Hospital of Zhangqiu, Jinan, Shandong 250200, P.R. China
| | - Ming Li
- Department of Nursing, People's Hospital of Zhangqiu, Jinan, Shandong 250200, P.R. China
| | - Hong Fan
- Department of Nursing, People's Hospital of Zhangqiu, Jinan, Shandong 250200, P.R. China
| | - Hong Ma
- Department of Mingzhu Community Service Station, People's Hospital of Zhangqiu, Jinan, Shandong 250200, P.R. China
| | - Li Sheng
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Yantai, Shandong 264000, P.R. China
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Thouas GA, Dominguez F, Green MP, Vilella F, Simon C, Gardner DK. Soluble ligands and their receptors in human embryo development and implantation. Endocr Rev 2015; 36:92-130. [PMID: 25548832 DOI: 10.1210/er.2014-1046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Extensive evidence suggests that soluble ligands and their receptors mediate human preimplantation embryo development and implantation. Progress in this complex area has been ongoing since the 1980s, with an ever-increasing list of candidates. This article specifically reviews evidence of soluble ligands and their receptors in the human preimplantation stage embryo and female reproductive tract. The focus will be on candidates produced by the human preimplantation embryo and those eliciting developmental responses in vitro, as well as endometrial factors related to implantation and receptivity. Pathways to clinical translation, including innovative diagnostics and other technologies, are also highlighted, drawing from this collective evidence toward facilitating joint improvements in embryo quality and endometrial receptivity. This strategy could not only benefit clinical outcomes in reproductive medicine but also provide broader insights into the peri-implantation period of human development to improve fetal and neonatal health.
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Affiliation(s)
- George A Thouas
- Reproductive Biology and Assisted Conception Laboratory (G.A.T., M.P.G., D.K.G.), School of Biosciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia 3010; Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (F.D., F.V., C.S.), Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Valencia, 46010, Valencia, Spain; La Fundación para la Investigación del Hospital Clínico de la Comunidad Valenciana Health Research Institute (F.D., F.V., C.S.), 46010 Valencia, Spain; and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (C.S.), Stanford University, Stanford, California 90095
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Ozbilgin K, Karaca F, Turan A, Köse C, Vatansever S, Ozcakir T. The higher heparin-binding epidermal growth factor (HB-EGF) in missed abortion. Taiwan J Obstet Gynecol 2015; 54:13-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tjog.2013.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/20/2013] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
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Lin YH, Tsai CY, Huang LW, Seow KM, Hwang JL, Tzeng CR. Reduced uterine receptivity for mouse embryos developed from in-vitro matured oocytes. J Assist Reprod Genet 2014; 31:1713-8. [PMID: 25292155 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-014-0354-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2014] [Accepted: 09/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The outcomes of in-vitro maturation (IVM) are inferior compared to those of IVF. The purpose of the study was to compare the implantation rates of IVM- and in-vivo maturation (IVO)- derived embryos, and to evaluate their effects on uterine receptivity. METHODS The IVM- and IVO- oocytes were obtained from female mice, fertilized and transferred to separate oviducts of the same pseudo-pregnant mice. After 5 days, the implanted blastocysts were dissected out of the uterine horns, and the uterine horns were analyzed for the expression of mRNAs encoding leukemia inhibitory factor, heparin-binding epidermal growth factor, insulin-like growth factor binding protein-4, progesterone receptor, and Hoxa-10. RESULTS The maturation rate of the IVM- oocytes was 81.2%. The fertilization rate of the IVM oocytes was lower than that of the IVO oocytes (50.5% vs. 78.0%, p = 0.038), as was their implantation rate (14.5% vs. 74.7%, p < 0.001). All 5 mRNAs examined were expressed at significantly lower levels in the uterine horns that received the IVM-derived embryos than in those that received the IVO-derived embryos. CONCLUSIONS The IVM-derived embryos are less competent in inducing expression of implantation-related mRNAs in the uterine horn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Hung Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shin Kong Wu Ho-Su Memorial Hospital, No. 95, Wen Chang Road, Shih Lin District, Taipei, Taiwan
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Neeraja Dharmaraj, Engel BJ, Carson DD. Activated EGFR stimulates MUC1 expression in human uterine and pancreatic cancer cell lines. J Cell Biochem 2013; 114:2314-22. [DOI: 10.1002/jcb.24580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2012] [Accepted: 04/15/2013] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Neeraja Dharmaraj
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Wiess School of Natural Sciences; Rice University; Houston; Texas; 77251
| | - Brian J. Engel
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Wiess School of Natural Sciences; Rice University; Houston; Texas; 77251
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Chim SM, Tickner J, Chow ST, Kuek V, Guo B, Zhang G, Rosen V, Erber W, Xu J. Angiogenic factors in bone local environment. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2013; 24:297-310. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2013.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 173] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2012] [Accepted: 03/26/2013] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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Zhang S, Lin H, Kong S, Wang S, Wang H, Wang H, Armant DR. Physiological and molecular determinants of embryo implantation. Mol Aspects Med 2013; 34:939-80. [PMID: 23290997 DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2012.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 346] [Impact Index Per Article: 31.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2012] [Revised: 12/25/2012] [Accepted: 12/26/2012] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Embryo implantation involves the intimate interaction between an implantation-competent blastocyst and a receptive uterus, which occurs in a limited time period known as the window of implantation. Emerging evidence shows that defects originating during embryo implantation induce ripple effects with adverse consequences on later gestation events, highlighting the significance of this event for pregnancy success. Although a multitude of cellular events and molecular pathways involved in embryo-uterine crosstalk during implantation have been identified through gene expression studies and genetically engineered mouse models, a comprehensive understanding of the nature of embryo implantation is still missing. This review focuses on recent progress with particular attention to physiological and molecular determinants of blastocyst activation, uterine receptivity, blastocyst attachment and uterine decidualization. A better understanding of underlying mechanisms governing embryo implantation should generate new strategies to rectify implantation failure and improve pregnancy rates in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China; Graduate School of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100039, PR China
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Rashid NA, Lalitkumar S, Lalitkumar PG, Gemzell-Danielsson K. Endometrial receptivity and human embryo implantation. Am J Reprod Immunol 2011; 66 Suppl 1:23-30. [PMID: 21726335 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0897.2011.01048.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM The pre-requisite of successful implantation involves an intricate cascade of molecular interactions which plays a crucial role in preparing receptive endometrium and implanting blastocyst. METHOD OF STUDY Data are hereby presented for a better understanding of endometrial receptivity in women, hoping to provide a comprehensive picture of the process and identify new areas of basic and translational research in the biology of blastocyst implantation. RESULTS Timely regulation of the expression of a number of complex molecules like hormones, cytokines and growth factors, and their crosstalk from embryonic and maternal endometrial side play a major role in determining the fate of the embryo. The molecular basis of endometrial receptivity and the mechanisms by which the blastocyst first adheres to the luminal epithelium and then penetrates into the stroma are only just beginning to be resolved. CONCLUSION Advances in the development of implantation models and 'omics' technologies, particularly proteomics and metabolomics, are set to have a major impact on the development of this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najwa A Rashid
- Division of Genomics & Genetics, School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore city, Singapore
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Abstract
The establishment of pregnancy requires an intimate physical interaction and a molecular dialogue between the conceptus and the maternal reproductive tract that commences at implantation and continues until the placenta is formed and fully functional. Failure of the regulatory processes that ensure the fidelity of this relationship can precipitate a catastrophic pregnancy loss. One of the earliest identified molecular mediators of blastocyst implantation is heparin-binding epidermal growth factor (EGF)-like growth factor (HBEGF), which signals between the endometrium and implanting trophoblast cells to synchronize their corresponding developmental programs. HBEGF expression by trophoblast cells of the developing placenta appears to regulate extravillous differentiation and provide cytoprotection in a sometimes-hostile environment. This versatile member of the EGF signaling system will be examined in light of its associations with key events during early pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Jessmon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan 48201-1405, USA
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Ejskjaer K, Sørensen BS, Poulsen SS, Mogensen O, Forman A, Nexø E. Expression of the epidermal growth factor system in human endometrium during the menstrual cycle. Mol Hum Reprod 2005; 11:543-51. [PMID: 16100239 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gah207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The epidermal growth factor (EGF) system is ubiquitous in humans and plays fundamental roles in embryogenesis, development, proliferation and differentiation. As the endometrium of fertile women is characterized by proliferation and differentiation, we hypothesize a role for the EGF system. Fourteen premenopausal women had endometrial samples removed on day 6 +/- 1 and day 6 +/- 1 and 12 +/- 1 after ovulation during one menstrual cycle. RNA was extracted and analysed by real-time PCR, and immunohistochemistry was performed to localize the components of the EGF system. Human EGF Receptor 1 (HER1) showed highest expression during the proliferative phase, HER2 and HER4 during the early and HER3 during the late secretory phase. Amphiregulin (AR) and transforming growth factor alpha (TGFalpha) expression is highest in proliferative phase. Heparin binding (HB)-EGF and betacellulin (BCL) show no variation. Epiregulin (EP) is detectable in some samples. EGF is undetectable. HER1, HER2, HER3 and HER4 were localized to the epithelium and glands HER3 and HER4 solely in the secretory phase. Amphiregulin was seen in leucocytes and stromal cells, TGFalpha and betacellulin in the epithelial lining, epiregulin in stromal cells whereas HB-EGF and EGF are undetectable. In conclusions, we observed cyclical expression of the four EGF receptors and two ligands and localized all four receptors and four ligands in endometrial biopsies. This suggests a role for the EGF system in growth of the endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsten Ejskjaer
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, NBG, Aarhus University Hospital, Arhus, Denmark.
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Emiliani S, Delbaere A, Devreker F, Englert Y. Embryo-maternal interactive factors regulating the implantation process: implications in assisted reproductive. Reprod Biomed Online 2005; 10:527-40. [PMID: 15901462 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)60831-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The embryo-maternal dialogue that starts very early in the life of the embryo is crucial for its own implantation. A disturbance in this dialogue is the major reason for which 60% of all pregnancies are terminated at the end of the periimplantation period. Many studies have been performed to improve the understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in this dialogue. Both partners, the mother and the embryo, are equally involved in this exchange of signals. Much progress has been done in understanding the role of (i) chorionic gonadotrophin, (ii) growth factors and cytokines, and (iii) steroid hormones and other mediators, produced either by the embryo, by the mother, or by both, during the peri-implantation period. Today it is clear that their production dictates changes in the endometrium, in the immunological system of the mother and in embryo metabolism, that enable the embryo to implant. Knowledge of the molecular mechanisms involved in the embryo-maternal interaction are reviewed in this article.
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Ku SY, Jee BC, Suh CS, Kim SH, Choi YM, Kim JG, Moon SY. Gonadotropin stimulation may not affect the expression of heparin-binding epidermal growth factor-like growth factor in the murine endometrium. Gynecol Obstet Invest 2005; 59:179-83. [PMID: 15703469 DOI: 10.1159/000083875] [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: 10/05/2004] [Accepted: 11/05/2004] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Present human data reveal that gonadotropin stimulation for in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET) is detrimental to uterine receptivity. Heparin-binding epidermal growth factor-like growth factor (HB-EGF) is important in the early stage of mouse embryonic implantation since it is expressed in the murine endometrium before the attachment reaction. Gonadotropin receptors have been found on the murine endometrium. In this study, we assessed the expression of HB-EGF mRNA on the gonadotropin-stimulated murine endometrium and sought evidence of whether the gonadotropin-induced, altered uterine receptivity is associated with a change in the HB-EGF expression. METHODS Quantitative, competitive reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and immunohistochemistry were performed to evaluate the expression of HB-EGF mRNA on the stimulated murine endometrium from pregnant uteri of gestation day (g.d.) 5.0 after injection of saline, or pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG) 5 or 10 IU. RESULTS The expression of HB-EGF mRNA showed no significant increase or decrease in the endometrial expression in PMSG groups, compared to the control group (natural coitus with saline injection), on g.d. 5.0. This finding was consistent with the immunostaining of HB-EGF protein, and there was no significant difference in the staining intensity among the 3 groups. CONCLUSION This study reveals that ovarian stimulation by gonadotropin may not influence the expression of HB-EGF in the murine endometrium. Further investigations are necessary to elucidate whether embryonic HB-EGF receptor status relative to endometrial HB-EGF expression is affected by ovarian stimulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung-Yup Ku
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, College of Medicine, Seoul National University, Seoul, Korea
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Abstract
Implantation is a complex process that requires synchronization between the embryo and a receptive endometrium. Hormones, such as the female sex steroids, prostaglandins, and peptide hormones, regulate the cellular and molecular mediators of endometrial receptivity, which include pinopodes, cell adhesion molecules, cytokines, homeobox genes, and growth factors. These mediators can be altered, despite the presence of normal hormone levels and endometrial histology; this limits the usefulness of the luteal phase endometrial biopsy. Therefore, analysis of markers of endometrial receptivity may predict successful implantation better. Elevated androgen and estrogen levels, as seen with polycystic ovary syndrome and controlled ovarian hyperstimulation, respectively, also can have detrimental effects on the endometrium, and therefore, implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pinar H Kodaman
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
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Abstract
Implantation is a phenomenon that involves an interaction between the embryo and maternal endometrium. There is, in the menstrual cycle, a short and precise period of time in which the maternal-embryonic interaction is optimal and culminates with adhesion and invasion of the blastocyst into the progesterone-induced secretory endometrium. This period is called nidation or implantation window. In the implantation window changes occur in endometrial epithelial morphology, characterized by the appearance of membrane projections called pinopodes. Pinopodes are progesterone-dependent organelles, that look like apical cellular protrusions appearing between days 20 and 21 of the natural menstrual cycle. There are many factors that regulate the changes typical of the implantation window and the appearance of the pinopodes. The embryonic and maternal expression of growth factors and cytokines, calcitonin, HOX genes and cell adhesion molecules might all play a major role in the phenomenon of implantation. The cytokines function as chemical messengers and can serve as biomarkers of uterine receptivity. Understanding the function of these biomarkers and their role in determining the implantation window in women, will help us to diagnose and treat infertile couples more efficiently.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Cavagna
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Santo Amaro University (UNISA) School of Medicine, Rua Viradouro 58, 04538-110 São Paulo, Brazil.
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Hoozemans DA, Schats R, Lambalk CB, Homburg R, Hompes PGA. Human embryo implantation: current knowledge and clinical implications in assisted reproductive technology. Reprod Biomed Online 2004; 9:692-715. [PMID: 15670421 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)61781-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
A pregnancy rate of approximately 15% per cycle renders the process of human reproduction inefficient. The cycle-dependent expression of molecules involved in the embryo-endometrial dialogue has lead to the identification of a 'window of implantation'. This is the unique temporal and spatial expression of factors that allows the embryo to implant (via signalling, appositioning, attachment and invasion) in a specific time frame of 48 h, 7-10 days after ovulation. Integrin molecules, L-selectin ligands, mucin-1, heparin-binding epidermal growth factor and pinopodes are involved in appositioning and attachment. The embryo produces cytokines and growth factors [interleukins, prostaglandins, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)] and receptors for endometrial signals (leukaemia inhibitory factor receptor, colony stimulating factor receptor, insulin-like growth factors and heparin binding epidermal growth factor receptor). The immune system plays an important role. Immunomodulatory factors such as glycodelin, inhibin and interleukin prevent a graft-versus-host reaction. Angiogenesis controlled by VEGF and prostaglandins is needed for formation of a receptive endometrium and a placenta. Identification of these factors has led to their use as markers of implantation that may identify defects causing subfertility. An ideal marker of implantation is sensitive and specific, and easy to obtain without disturbing implantation. Glycodelin and leukaemia inhibitory factor (serum) and integrins and pinopodes (biopsies) are promising candidates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diederik A Hoozemans
- VU University Medical Centre Amsterdam, IVF-Centrum, Poli Zuid, PO Box 7057, 1007 MB Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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CHOBOTOVA KATYA, MUCHMORE MARYELIZABETH, CARVER JANET, YOO HYUNGJ, MANEK SANJIV, GULLICK WILLIAMJ, BARLOW DAVIDH, MARDON HELENJ. The mitogenic potential of heparin-binding epidermal growth factor in the human endometrium is mediated by the epidermal growth factor receptor and is modulated by tumor necrosis factor-alpha. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2002; 87:5769-77. [PMID: 12466384 PMCID: PMC1635788 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2002-020069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Heparin-binding epidermal growth factor (HB-EGF), a member of the epidermal growth factor (EGF) family, is implicated in a variety of biological processes, including reproduction. Previous studies describe increased levels of HB-EGF in the human endometrium during the midsecretory stage of the menstrual cycle, suggesting a function for HB-EGF in implantation of the human blastocyst. Here we have investigated the expression and function of the soluble and transmembrane forms of HB-EGF in the human endometrium. We show that the expression of the transmembrane form of HB-EGF in the human endometrium is modulated according to the stage of the menstrual cycle. We present data demonstrating that both the soluble and transmembrane forms of HB-EGF induce DNA synthesis in human endometrial stromal cells. Furthermore, TNFalpha has a cooperative effect on HB-EGF, EGF, TGFalpha, and betacellulin-induced DNA synthesis in stromal cells, suggesting roles for the EGF family and TNFalpha in regeneration and maturation of human endometrium. Induction of DNA synthesis by HB-EGF and its modulation by TNFalpha in endometrial stromal cells are mediated by the EGF receptor and not the HB-EGF receptor ErbB4. Our data suggest key functions for HB-EGF, TNFalpha, and the EGF receptor in endometrial maturation, via autocrine/paracrine and juxtacrine pathways, in preparation for embryo implantation.
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Key Words
- btc, betacellulin
- cho, chinese hamster ovary
- egf, epidermal growth factor
- egfr, epidermal growth factor receptor
- fcs, fetal calf serum
- fitc, fluorescein isothiocyanate
- hb-egf, heparin-binding epidermal growth factor
- hrp, horseradish peroxidase
- pmsf, phenylmethylsulfonylfluoride
- sol-, soluble form
- tm-, transmembrane form
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Affiliation(s)
- KATYA CHOBOTOVA
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, Oxford, United Kingdom OX3 9DU; and Research School of Biosciences, University of Kent (W.J.G.), Canterbury, Kent, United Kingdom CT2 7NJ
| | - MARY-ELIZABETH MUCHMORE
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, Oxford, United Kingdom OX3 9DU; and Research School of Biosciences, University of Kent (W.J.G.), Canterbury, Kent, United Kingdom CT2 7NJ
| | - JANET CARVER
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, Oxford, United Kingdom OX3 9DU; and Research School of Biosciences, University of Kent (W.J.G.), Canterbury, Kent, United Kingdom CT2 7NJ
| | - HYUNG-J YOO
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, Oxford, United Kingdom OX3 9DU; and Research School of Biosciences, University of Kent (W.J.G.), Canterbury, Kent, United Kingdom CT2 7NJ
| | - SANJIV MANEK
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, Oxford, United Kingdom OX3 9DU; and Research School of Biosciences, University of Kent (W.J.G.), Canterbury, Kent, United Kingdom CT2 7NJ
| | - WILLIAM J. GULLICK
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, Oxford, United Kingdom OX3 9DU; and Research School of Biosciences, University of Kent (W.J.G.), Canterbury, Kent, United Kingdom CT2 7NJ
| | - DAVID H. BARLOW
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, Oxford, United Kingdom OX3 9DU; and Research School of Biosciences, University of Kent (W.J.G.), Canterbury, Kent, United Kingdom CT2 7NJ
| | - HELEN J. MARDON
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, Oxford, United Kingdom OX3 9DU; and Research School of Biosciences, University of Kent (W.J.G.), Canterbury, Kent, United Kingdom CT2 7NJ
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19
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Isaacs J, Murphy CR. Heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor is seen on the extracellular surface of uterine epithelial cells only after the initial stages of blastocyst attachment. THE HISTOCHEMICAL JOURNAL 2002; 34:339-43. [PMID: 12769266 DOI: 10.1023/a:1023334727288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
The presence and distribution of heparin-binding epidermal growth factor in rat uterine epithelial cells was determined immunohistochemically and localized ultrastructurally. Rat uterine tissue was examined on days 1, 3, 6 and 8 of pregnancy and it was found that while presence of this growth factor was evident from day 1, spatial reorganization occurred by the time of blastocyst implantation. Strong apical staining was evident from day 6 to day 8, day 6 being the approximate time of blastocyst implantation. Electron microscopy further revealed that this growth factor while shown to be expressed very strongly apically from day 6, actually localized on the plasma membrane only after attachment of the blastocyst. This suggests that heparin-binding epidermal growth factor is not involved in the initial stages of implantation but is more likely involved in the post attachment stages of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Isaacs
- Department of Anatomy & Histology, F13, The University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
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Abstract
Endometrial receptivity towards embryo implantation is a complex process that involves the ovary, endometrium and embryo. The dialog between the ovary and the endometrium provides the hormonal stimulus for establishment of a successful pregnancy. The hormones estrogen and progesterone act in concert to stimulate the expression of key molecules necessary for embryos to attach and invade. It is thought that initial attachment of the embryo involves cell adhesion events. The best characterized cell adhesion molecule on the luminal surface of the endometrium is the alphavbeta3 integrin. Its ligand osteopontin (OPN) is co-localized with alphavbeta3 and may play a role in endometrial or embryo signaling or facilitate embryo attachment to the apical surface prior to invasion. Surprising new evidence suggests that these two proteins are differentially regulated. Acting directly on endometrial epithelium, progesterone stimulates OPN expression. Using a stromal-mediated paracrine mechanism, HB-EGF or other EGF molecules appear to stimulate epithelial alphavbeta3 expression. In this article, we review what is known about these two pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce A Lessey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA.
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21
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Abstract
The endometrium undergoes characteristic histologic changes during the menstrual cycle as it prepares for embryo implantation. Historic and current data suggest the presence of a defined period of maximal uterine receptivity during the mid-secretory phase occurring between days 7 and 10 postovulation. In recent years, we and others have sought to define biochemical markers of receptivity that might be used to better understand this time of endometrial differentiation. Based on the work with cell adhesion molecules, we have discovered three different integrins that are only coexpressed during this time in the cycle when embryos will successfully implant. By studying the regulation of one of these, the alpha(v)beta3 integrin, and its extracellular matrix ligand, osteopontin (OPN), we have defined two separate regulatory pathways that may regulate endometrial receptivity. While alpha(v)beta3 expression appears to be stimulated by EGF or heparin-binding EGF, osteopontin is stimulated by progesterone. We now believe the former pathway is a paracrine-mediated signal, while the latter is a direct effect of progesterone on the estrogen-primed endometrial epithelium. In women with endometriosis, it appears that alpha(v)beta3 expression is reduced, while OPN expression is unaffected. Interestingly, binding of OPN to the surface epithelium appears quite limited when alpha(v)beta3 expression is lacking. Such evidence continues to reinforce the notion that endometrium from some women with endometriosis is dysfunctional and may account for the reduction in cycle fecundity noted in this group of patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce A Lessey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 27599, USA.
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22
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Carson DD, Bagchi I, Dey SK, Enders AC, Fazleabas AT, Lessey BA, Yoshinaga K. Embryo implantation. Dev Biol 2000; 223:217-37. [PMID: 10882512 DOI: 10.1006/dbio.2000.9767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 549] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- D D Carson
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, 19716, USA.
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23
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Yoo HJ, Barlow DH, Mardon HJ. Temporal and spatial regulation of expression of heparin-binding epidermal growth factor-like growth factor in the human endometrium: a possible role in blastocyst implantation. DEVELOPMENTAL GENETICS 2000; 21:102-8. [PMID: 9291586 DOI: 10.1002/(sici)1520-6408(1997)21:1<102::aid-dvg12>3.0.co;2-c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The function of the endometrium in the implantation of the blastocyst depends on the regulated, cyclical regeneration of endometrial tissue and the expression of a receptive phenotype in response to steroid hormones. Experiments using animal and models suggest that heparin-binding epidermal growth factor-like growth factor (HB-EGF) is important for endometrial receptivity, and that it may directly mediate blastocyst implantation We have investigated the expression of HB-EGF mRNA and protein in pregnant and nonpregnant human endometrium and placenta. Our data demonstrate that HB-EGF mRNA expression is low in the endometrium during the proliferative stage of the menstrual cycle and increases in the secretory stage, with highest expression immediately prior to the implantation window (day 19-21), after which levels decrease. Immunohistochemical detection of HB-EGF shows that it is present in the stroma of proliferative stage endometrium and that it is localized to the apical surface of the luminal epithelium of midsecretory stage endometrium. Levels of HB-EGF mRNA are low in pregnant endometrium and high in placental tissues at an early stage of development. Our data suggest that expression of human endometrial HB-EGF coincides with the expression of a receptive phenotype, and that H-EGF may have an important function in the implantation of the human blastocyst and early placental development.
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Affiliation(s)
- H J Yoo
- Nuffield Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Oxford, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Headington, United Kingdom
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Park KR, Inoue T, Ueda M, Hirano T, Higuchi T, Maeda M, Konishi I, Fujiwara H, Fujii S. CD9 is expressed on human endometrial epithelial cells in association with integrins alpha(6), alpha(3) and beta(1). Mol Hum Reprod 2000; 6:252-7. [PMID: 10694273 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/6.3.252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Recently we reported that CD9 is involved in the invasion of a trophoblast-like choriocarcinoma cell line, BeWo, probably through the regulation of integrin functions. Integrins have also been reported to be expressed in the human endometrium and it has been suggested that they play important roles in blastocyst implantation. This study used immunohistochemistry to investigate the expression of CD9 in the endometrium during the menstrual cycle. CD9 was found to be intensely expressed on the cell surface of the glandular epithelium throughout the menstrual cycle without any apparent differences in staining intensity. In addition, Western blotting analysis of the affinity-purified proteins confirmed that CD9 was associated with integrins beta(1), alpha(3) and alpha(6) in the human endometrium. Therefore it can be concluded that CD9, in association with integrins alpha(6), alpha(3) and beta(1), is a constitutive molecule of the endometrial glandular epithelium. These results also suggest that CD9 may be an important regulator of these integrins in the human endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- K R Park
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine, Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
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25
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Duc-Goiran P, Mignot TM, Bourgeois C, Ferré F. Embryo-maternal interactions at the implantation site: a delicate equilibrium. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 1999; 83:85-100. [PMID: 10221616 DOI: 10.1016/s0301-2115(98)00310-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Blastocyst implantation and successful establishment of pregnancy require delicate interactions between the embryo and the maternal environment. During preimplantation, maternal/embryo communication is mediated by the trophectoderm. In the late luteal phase, physiological changes occur in the endometrium to allow blastocyst implantation. The "window of implantation" represents the period of maximum uterine receptivity for implantation. In response to signals from the embryo, pregnancy-specific proteins are released in maternal serum and a series of morphological, biochemical and immunological changes occur in the uterine environment. These systemic and local modifications can be considered to constitute "the maternal recognition of pregnancy". The human hemochorial placenta arises primarily through proliferation, migration and invasion of the endometrium and its vasculature by the embryonic trophoblast. The complex invasive processes accompanying implantation of the embryo are controlled at the embryo-maternal interface by factors from decidualized endometrium and the trophoblast itself. An inflammatory reaction and a proper maternal immune response allow survival and development of the feto-placental unit. In this review, we focus on interactions between trophoblast and uterine tissues and on cellular mechanisms and molecular signals involved in the closely regulated process of implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Duc-Goiran
- INSERM U. 361, Université René Descartes, Paris, France
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26
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Kliem A, Tetens F, Klonisch T, Grealy M, Fischer B. Epidermal growth factor receptor and ligands in elongating bovine blastocysts. Mol Reprod Dev 1998; 51:402-12. [PMID: 9820199 DOI: 10.1002/(sici)1098-2795(199812)51:4<402::aid-mrd7>3.0.co;2-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Preimplantation development depends on multiple interactions between mother and embryo. The Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGF-R) and its ligands are potential components of the embryo-maternal cross-talk: Employing RT-PCR, in situ hybridization, and immunohistochemistry, we investigated on mRNA and protein level the expression of EGF-R, Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF), Transforming Growth Factor alpha (TGF-alpha), and Heparin-binding EGF-like Growth Factor (HB-EGF) in spherical and elongating bovine blastocysts between day 13 and day 16 of gestation, and in endometrium at day 13 of gestation. EGF-R mRNA and protein were detected in trophoblast and endoderm cells of all blastocyst stages that were studied, and in luminal and some glandular epithelial cells of the endometrium at day 13. EGF protein was detected in both blastocysts and endometrial epithelium. TGF-alpha transcripts and protein were present in blastocysts prior to and after elongation and in uterine glandular and luminal epithelium at day 13 of gestation. HB-EGF mRNA and protein was shown in the endoderm, and the protein also was detected immunohistochemically in about 45% of the blastocysts. This presence of the EGF receptor-ligand system in the endometrium and the preimplantation embryo at the time of blastocyst elongation suggests an important role for these growth factors during bovine preimplantation development.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Kliem
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Martin Luther University Faculty of Medicine, Halle, Germany
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27
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Abstract
The implantation process is currently considered the most relevant limiting factor for successful pregnancy. It is evident that molecular interactions at the embryo-maternal interface at the time of implantation are crucial in order to understand the mechanisms of embryonic implantation. The principal aim of this study is to demonstrate the existence of specific communication pathways between the human embryo and endometrium. The molecular interactions appears to be initiated by the endometrium in the presence of an implanting blastocyst and is mediated through embryonic cytokines (specifically the IL-1 system) and the target is the endometrial epithelial beta3 integrin subunit. If the role of beta3 is accepted as a marker of uterine receptivity these results may indicate that the normal hormonally regulated human endometrium could be the trigger for molecular events preparing the blastocyst to communicate effectively and regulate endometrial adhesion molecules in order to implant.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Simón
- Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad, Spain.
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