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Cui J, Yang Z, Ma R, He W, Tao H, Li Y, Zhao Y. Placenta-targeted Treatment Strategies for Preeclampsia and Fetal Growth Restriction: An Opportunity and Major Challenge. Stem Cell Rev Rep 2024:10.1007/s12015-024-10739-x. [PMID: 38814409 DOI: 10.1007/s12015-024-10739-x] [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] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
The placenta plays a crucial role in maintaining normal pregnancy. The failure of spiral artery remodeling (SAR) is a key factor leading to placental ischemia and poor perfusion which is strongly associated with obstetric diseases, including preeclampsia (PE) and fetal growth restriction (FGR). Existing interventions for PE and FGR are limited and termination of pregnancy is inevitable when the maternal or fetus condition deteriorates. Considering the safety of the mother and fetus, treatments that may penetrate the placental barrier and harm the fetus are not accepted. Developing targeted treatment strategies for these conditions is urgent and necessary. With the proven efficacy of targeted therapy in treating conditions such as endometrial cancer and trophoblastic tumors, research on placental dysfunction continues to deepen. This article reviews the studies on placenta-targeted treatment and drug delivery strategies, summarizes the characteristics proposes corresponding improvement measures in targeted treatment, provides solutions for existing problems, and makes suggestions for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianjian Cui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Zejun Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Ruilin Ma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Wencong He
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Hui Tao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Ya'nan Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China
| | - Yin Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1277 Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430022, China.
- Shenzhen Huazhong University of Science and Technology Research Institute, Shenzhen, 518000, China.
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Ammar AY, Minisy FM, Shawki HH, Mansour M, Hemeda SA, El Nahas AF, Sherif AH, Oishi H. Exposure to a Low-Oxygen Environment Causes Implantation Failure and Transcriptomic Shifts in Mouse Uteruses and Ovaries. Biomedicines 2024; 12:1016. [PMID: 38790978 PMCID: PMC11118081 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines12051016] [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: 04/09/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Hypoxia is a condition in which tissues of the body do not receive sufficient amounts of oxygen supply. Numerous studies have elucidated the intricate roles of hypoxia and its involvement in both physiological and pathological conditions. This study aimed to clarify the impact of a forced low-oxygen environment in early pregnancy by exposing mice to low-oxygen conditions for 24-72 h after fertilization. The treatment resulted in the complete failure of blastocyst implantation, accompanied by vascular hyperpermeability in the uterus. A transcriptome analysis of the uterus revealed remarkable alterations in gene expression between control normoxic- and hypoxic-treatment groups. These alterations were characterized by the differentially expressed genes categorized into the immune responses and iron coordination. Furthermore, exposure to a low-oxygen environment caused apoptosis in the corpus luteum within the ovary and a reduction in progesterone secretion. Consequently, diminished plasma progesterone levels were considered to contribute to implantation failure in combination with the activation of the hypoxic pathway in the uterus. Additionally, previous studies have demonstrated the impact of hypoxic reactions on blastocyst development and the pre-implantation process in the endometrium. Our findings suggest that the corpus luteum exhibits elevated susceptibility to hypoxia, thereby elucidating a critical aspect of its physiological response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmaa Y. Ammar
- Biotechnology Department, Animal Health Research Institute (AHRI), Agriculture Research Center (ARC), Kafrelsheikh 12619, Egypt;
- Genetics Laboratory, Department of Animal Husbandry and Animal Wealth Development, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21544, Egypt; (S.A.H.); (A.F.E.N.)
- Department of Comparative and Experimental Medicine, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya 467-8601, Japan;
| | - Fatma M. Minisy
- Department of Comparative and Experimental Medicine, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya 467-8601, Japan;
| | - Hossam H. Shawki
- Department of Comparative and Experimental Medicine, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya 467-8601, Japan;
| | | | - Shabaan A. Hemeda
- Genetics Laboratory, Department of Animal Husbandry and Animal Wealth Development, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21544, Egypt; (S.A.H.); (A.F.E.N.)
| | - Abeer F. El Nahas
- Genetics Laboratory, Department of Animal Husbandry and Animal Wealth Development, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria 21544, Egypt; (S.A.H.); (A.F.E.N.)
| | - Ahmed H. Sherif
- Fish Disease Department, Animal Health Research Institute (AHRI), Agriculture Research Center (ARC), Kafrelsheikh 12619, Egypt
| | - Hisashi Oishi
- Department of Comparative and Experimental Medicine, Nagoya City University Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Nagoya 467-8601, Japan;
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De Vos ES, Mulders AGMGJ, Koning AHJ, Willemsen SP, Rousian M, Van Rijn BB, Steegers EAP, Steegers-Theunissen RPM. Morphologic development of the first-trimester utero-placental vasculature is positively associated with embryonic and fetal growth: the Rotterdam Periconception Cohort. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:923-935. [PMID: 38503486 PMCID: PMC11063559 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae056] [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: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 03/21/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is morphologic development of the first-trimester utero-placental vasculature associated with embryonic growth and development, fetal growth, and birth weight percentiles? SUMMARY ANSWER Using the utero-placental vascular skeleton (uPVS) as a new imaging marker, this study reveals morphologic development of the first-trimester utero-placental vasculature is positively associated with embryonic growth and development, fetal growth, and birth weight percentiles. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY First-trimester development of the utero-placental vasculature is associated with placental function, which subsequently impacts embryonic and fetal ability to reach their full growth potential. The attribution of morphologic variations in the utero-placental vascular development, including the vascular structure and branching density, on prenatal growth remains unknown. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This study was conducted in the VIRTUAL Placental study, a subcohort of 214 ongoing pregnancies, embedded in the prospective observational Rotterdam Periconception Cohort (Predict study). Women were included before 10 weeks gestational age (GA) at a tertiary referral hospital in The Netherlands between January 2017 and March 2018. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS We obtained three-dimensional power Doppler volumes of the gestational sac including the embryo and the placenta at 7, 9, and 11 weeks of gestation. Virtual Reality-based segmentation and a recently developed skeletonization algorithm were applied to the power Doppler volumes to generate the uPVS and to measure utero-placental vascular volume (uPVV). Absolute vascular morphology was quantified by assigning a morphologic characteristic to each voxel in the uPVS (i.e. end-, bifurcation-crossing-, or vessel point). Additionally, total vascular length (mm) was calculated. The ratios of the uPVS characteristics to the uPVV were calculated to determine the density of vascular branching. Embryonic growth was estimated by crown-rump length and embryonic volume. Embryonic development was estimated by Carnegie stages. Fetal growth was measured by estimated fetal weight in the second and third trimester and birth weight percentiles. Linear mixed models were used to estimate trajectories of longitudinal measurements. Linear regression analysis with adjustments for confounders was used to evaluate associations between trajectories of the uPVS and prenatal growth. Groups were stratified for conception method (natural/IVF-ICSI conceptions), fetal sex (male/female), and the occurrence of placenta-related complications (yes/no). MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Increased absolute vascular morphologic development, estimated by positive random intercepts of the uPVS characteristics, is associated with increased embryonic growth, reflected by crown-rump length (endpoints β = 0.017, 95% CI [0.009; 0.025], bifurcation points β = 0.012, 95% CI [0.006; 0.018], crossing points β = 0.017, 95% CI [0.008; 0.025], vessel points β = 0.01, 95% CI [0.002; 0.008], and total vascular length β = 0.007, 95% CI [0.003; 0.010], and similarly with embryonic volume and Carnegie stage, all P-values ≤ 0.01. Density of vascular branching was negatively associated with estimated fetal weight in the third trimester (endpoints: uPVV β = -94.972, 95% CI [-185.245; -3.698], bifurcation points: uPVV β = -192.601 95% CI [-360.532; -24.670]) and birth weight percentiles (endpoints: uPVV β = -20.727, 95% CI [-32.771; -8.683], bifurcation points: uPVV β -51.097 95% CI [-72.257; -29.937], and crossing points: uPVV β = -48.604 95% CI [-74.246; -22.961])), all P-values < 0.05. After stratification, the associations were observed in natural conceptions specifically. LIMITATION, REASONS FOR CAUTION Although the results of this prospective observational study clearly demonstrate associations between first-trimester utero-placental vascular morphologic development and prenatal growth, further research is required before we can draw firm conclusions about a causal relationship. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our findings support the hypothesis that morphologic variations in utero-placental vascular development play a role in the vascular mechanisms involved in embryonic and fetal growth and development. Application of the uPVS could benefit our understanding of the pathophysiology underlying placenta-related complications. Future research should focus on the clinical applicability of the uPVS as an imaging marker for the early detection of fetal growth restriction. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This research was funded by the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of the Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands. There are no conflicts of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Registered at the Dutch Trial Register (NTR6854).
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Affiliation(s)
- E S De Vos
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A G M G J Mulders
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A H J Koning
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - S P Willemsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M Rousian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - B B Van Rijn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - E A P Steegers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - R P M Steegers-Theunissen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Contini T, Béranger R, Multigner L, Klánová J, Price EJ, David A. A Critical Review on the Opportunity to Use Placenta and Innovative Biomonitoring Methods to Characterize the Prenatal Chemical Exposome. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:15301-15313. [PMID: 37796725 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c04845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
Adverse effects associated with chemical exposures during pregnancy include several developmental and reproductive disorders. However, considering the tens of thousands of chemicals present on the market, the effects of chemical mixtures on the developing fetus is still likely underestimated. In this critical review, we discuss the potential to apply innovative biomonitoring methods using high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS) on placenta to improve the monitoring of chemical exposure during pregnancy. The physiology of the placenta and its relevance as a matrix for monitoring chemical exposures and their effects on fetal health is first outlined. We then identify several key parameters that require further investigations before placenta can be used for large-scale monitoring in a robust manner. Most critical is the need for standardization of placental sampling. Placenta is a highly heterogeneous organ, and knowledge of the intraplacenta variability of chemical composition is required to ensure unbiased and robust interindividual comparisons. Other important variables include the time of collection, the sex of the fetus, and mode of delivery. Finally, we discuss the first applications of HRMS methods on the placenta to decipher the chemical exposome and describe how the use of placenta can complement biofluids collected on the mother or the fetus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Contini
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail) - UMR_S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlářská 2, 602 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Rémi Béranger
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail) - UMR_S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France
| | - Luc Multigner
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail) - UMR_S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France
| | - Jana Klánová
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlářská 2, 602 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Elliott J Price
- RECETOX, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Kotlářská 2, 602 00 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Arthur David
- Univ Rennes, CHU Rennes, Inserm, EHESP, Irset (Institut de Recherche en Santé, Environnement et Travail) - UMR_S 1085, F-35000 Rennes, France
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Allerkamp HH, Leighton S, Pole T, Clark AR, James JL. Synergistic regulation of uterine radial artery adaptation to pregnancy by paracrine and hemodynamic factors. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2023; 325:H790-H805. [PMID: 37539447 PMCID: PMC10643003 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00205.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
Fetal growth throughout pregnancy relies on delivery of an increasing volume of maternal blood to the placenta. To facilitate this, the uterine vascular network adapts structurally and functionally, resulting in wider blood vessels with decreased flow-mediated reactivity. Impaired remodeling of the rate-limiting uterine radial arteries has been associated with fetal growth restriction. However, the mechanisms underlying normal or pathological radial artery remodeling are poorly understood. Here, we used pressure myography to determine the roles of hemodynamic (resistance, flow rate, shear stress) and paracrine [β-estradiol, progesterone, placental growth factor (PlGF), vascular endothelial growth factor] factors on rat radial artery reactivity. We show that β-estradiol, progesterone, and PlGF attenuate flow-mediated constriction of radial arteries from nonpregnant rats, allowing them to withstand higher flow rates in a similar manner to pregnant vessels. This effect was partly mediated by nitric oxide (NO) production. To better understand how the combination of paracrine factors and shear stress may impact human radial artery remodeling in the first half of gestation, computational models of uterine hemodynamics, incorporating physiological parameters for trophoblast plugging and spiral artery remodeling, were used to predict shear stress in the upstream radial arteries across the first half of pregnancy. Human microvascular endothelial cells subjected to these predicted shear stresses demonstrated higher NO production when paracrine factors were added. This suggests that synergistic effects of paracrine and hemodynamic factors induce uterine vascular remodeling and that alterations in this balance could impair radial artery adaptation, limiting blood flow to the placenta and negatively impacting fetal growth.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Placenta-specific paracrine factors β-estradiol, progesterone, and placental growth factor attenuate flow-mediated constriction of the rate-limiting uterine radial arteries, enabling higher flow rates in pregnancy. These paracrine factors induce their actions in part via nitric oxide mediated mechanisms. A synergistic combination of paracrine factors and shear stress is likely necessary to produce sufficient levels of nitric oxide during early human pregnancy to trigger adequate uterine vascular adaptation.
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Affiliation(s)
- H. H. Allerkamp
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - S. Leighton
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - T. Pole
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - A. R. Clark
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - J. L. James
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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May RW, Maso Talou GD, Clark AR, Mynard JP, Smolich JJ, Blanco PJ, Müller LO, Gentles TL, Bloomfield FH, Safaei S. From fetus to neonate: A review of cardiovascular modeling in early life. WIREs Mech Dis 2023:e1608. [DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1608] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 03/03/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
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The effects of female sexual hormones on the endothelial glycocalyx. CURRENT TOPICS IN MEMBRANES 2023; 91:89-137. [PMID: 37080682 DOI: 10.1016/bs.ctm.2023.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/12/2023]
Abstract
The glycocalyx is a layer composed of carbohydrate side chains bound to core proteins that lines the vascular endothelium. The integrity of the glycocalyx is essential for endothelial cells' performance and vascular homeostasis. The neuroendocrine and immune systems influence the composition, maintenance, activity and degradation of the endothelial glycocalyx. The female organism has unique characteristics, and estrogen and progesterone, the main female hormones are essential to the development and physiology of the reproductive system and to the ability to develop a fetus. Female sex hormones also exert a wide variety of effects on other organs, including the vascular endothelium. They upregulate nitric oxide synthase expression and activity, decrease oxidative stress, increase vasodilation, and protect from vascular injury. This review will discuss how female hormones and pregnancy, which prompts to high levels of estrogen and progesterone, modulate the endothelial glycocalyx. Diseases prevalent in women that alter the glycocalyx, and therapeutic forms to prevent glycocalyx degradation and potential treatments that can reconstitute its structure and function will also be discussed.
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Nurzadeh M, Ghalandarpoor-Attar SM, Ghalandarpoor-Attar SN, Rabiei M. The Role of Interferon (IFN)-γ in Extravillous Trophoblast Cell (EVT) Invasion and Preeclampsia Progression. Reprod Sci 2022; 30:1462-1469. [PMID: 36289172 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-01110-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The involvement of the immune system in pregnancy is a controversial subject. The functions of T helper (Th) 1 and Th2 cells have been proposed, that Th1 cytokines promoting allograft rejection may impair pregnancy, whereas Th2-type cytokines suppressing Th1 responses improve allograft tolerance and hence embryonic survival. Maternal-fetal tolerance begins in the uterus; therefore, optimal adaptation to the fetus is the result of a complex interference. The invasion of extravillous trophoblast cells (EVTs) into the decidua and the inner third of the myometrium is essential for a healthy pregnancy. The mechanisms that influence trophoblast invasion are unknown; however, cytokines from uterine natural killer (uNK) cells, NKT cells, macrophages, and T cells appear to be involved. All these cells are major sources of interferon gamma (IFN-γ). Recent studies have shown that IFN-γ can inhibit EVT invasion via a mechanism dependent on an increase in EVT apoptosis and a decrease in matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Regarding controversies in this context, this study aimed to comprehensively review the role of IFN-γ and IFN-γ-producing cells in EVT invasion, successful pregnancy, and preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Nurzadeh
- Fetomaternal Department, Shariati Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | | | - Maryam Rabiei
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
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Brzozowska A, Stankiewicz T, Błaszczyk B, Chundekkad P, Udała J, Wojtasiak N. Ultrasound parameters of early pregnancy and Doppler indices of blood vessels in the placenta and umbilical cord throughout the pregnancy period in sheep. BMC Vet Res 2022; 18:326. [PMID: 36042514 PMCID: PMC9426239 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-022-03424-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 08/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ultrasonography is one of the most important techniques that enable the detection and monitoring of pregnancy. One such study using this technique is the assessment of the hemodynamics of fetal and umbilical blood vessels. However, there is little data on blood flow in the placentomes, which is the basic structural unit of the sheep's placenta. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the Doppler parameters in the arterial vessels of the caruncles, cotyledons and the umbilical cord as well as measuring venous flow rates during the entire gestation period of the sheep. Additionally, the usefulness of various other ultrasound parameters in the early diagnosis of pregnancy in sheep was analyzed. RESULTS Most of the Doppler parameters in umbilical, cotyledonary and caruncular arteries were significantly correlated with the day of pregnancy (p < 0.01). In the early stages of pregnancy, the peak systolic velocity (PSV), regardless of the location of the artery, was significantly lower than that in the later stages of pregnancy (p < 0.01). PSV was also found to be significantly higher in the umbilical artery than in the cotyledonary and caruncular arteries (p < 0.01). Until the 50th day of pregnancy, the end diastolic velocity (EDV) was not found in the umbilical and cotyledonary arteries. EDV was significantly higher in the caruncular arteries than in the cotyledonary and umbilical arteries (p < 0.01). The resistance index (RI) and pulsatility index (PI) in the early stages of pregnancy were found to be significantly higher than that in the later stages of pregnancy (p < 0.01). The RI and PI were significantly lower in the caruncular arteries than in the arteries of the cotyledons and umbilical cord (p < 0.01). In the umbilical vein, all Doppler parameters were observed to be significantly higher than those in the placentomal veins (p < 0.01 or p < 0.05). Using transrectal ultrasound, pregnancy was detected between 20 and 28 days after mating. The ovaries were observed to have corpora lutea, the diameter of which was fairly consistent from the 17th to the 56th day of pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS It has been demonstrated that both the location of the arterial vessel in the placental-umbilical circulation and the gestational age have a significant impact on hemodynamic parameters. The results also provide new insights about the blood flow in caruncular and cotyledonary arteries, which could contribute to a more holistic understanding of hemodynamic changes in the placentas of sheep. Analyzing haemodynamic parameters in the umbilical and placental veins are preliminary studies in sheep, but it could inspire further research in this field. Furthermore, the research conducted confirms the practicality and convenience of transrectal ultrasonography in the early diagnosis of pregnancy in sheep and also indicates that the identification and imaging of the corpus luteum using B-mode ultrasonography can be a very early and simple method of confirming effective mating in sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelika Brzozowska
- West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Faculty of Biotechnology and Animal Husbandry, Department of Animal Reproduction Biotechnology and Environmental Hygiene, 29 Klemensa Janickiego Street, 71-270, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Tomasz Stankiewicz
- West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Faculty of Biotechnology and Animal Husbandry, Department of Animal Reproduction Biotechnology and Environmental Hygiene, 29 Klemensa Janickiego Street, 71-270, Szczecin, Poland.
| | - Barbara Błaszczyk
- West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Faculty of Biotechnology and Animal Husbandry, Department of Animal Reproduction Biotechnology and Environmental Hygiene, 29 Klemensa Janickiego Street, 71-270, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Pavitra Chundekkad
- Department of Biology, University of Victoria, 3800 Finnerty Road Victoria BC, Victoria, V8P 5C2, Canada
| | - Jan Udała
- West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Faculty of Biotechnology and Animal Husbandry, Department of Animal Reproduction Biotechnology and Environmental Hygiene, 29 Klemensa Janickiego Street, 71-270, Szczecin, Poland
| | - Natalia Wojtasiak
- West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, Faculty of Biotechnology and Animal Husbandry, Department of Animal Reproduction Biotechnology and Environmental Hygiene, 29 Klemensa Janickiego Street, 71-270, Szczecin, Poland
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Liu T, Yan M, Liu F, Ma Y, Fang Y. The role of
p53‐MDM2
signaling in missed abortion and possible pathogenesis. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2022; 48:2686-2696. [DOI: 10.1111/jog.15385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2021] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 07/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ting Liu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics Qilu Hospital of Shandong University Jinan Shandong PR China
| | - Min Yan
- Yidu Central Hospital of Weifang Shandong PR China
| | - Fen Liu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics Qilu Hospital of Shandong University Jinan Shandong PR China
| | - Yuyan Ma
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics Qilu Hospital of Shandong University Jinan Shandong PR China
| | - Yan Fang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics Qilu Hospital of Shandong University Jinan Shandong PR China
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Kojima J, Ono M, Kuji N, Nishi H. Human Chorionic Villous Differentiation and Placental Development. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23148003. [PMID: 35887349 PMCID: PMC9325306 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23148003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 07/19/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
In humans, the placenta provides the only fetomaternal connection and is essential for establishing a pregnancy as well as fetal well-being. Additionally, it allows maternal physiological adaptation and embryonic immunological acceptance, support, and nutrition. The placenta is derived from extra-embryonic tissues that develop rapidly and dynamically in the first weeks of pregnancy. It is primarily composed of trophoblasts that differentiate into villi, stromal cells, macrophages, and fetal endothelial cells (FEC). Placental differentiation may be closely related to perinatal diseases, including fetal growth retardation (FGR) and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP), and miscarriage. There are limited findings regarding human chorionic villous differentiation and placental development because conducting in vivo studies is extremely difficult. Placental tissue varies widely among species. Thus, experimental animal findings are difficult to apply to humans. Early villous differentiation is difficult to study due to the small tissue size; however, a detailed analysis can potentially elucidate perinatal disease causes or help develop novel therapies. Artificial induction of early villous differentiation using human embryonic stem (ES) cells/induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells was attempted, producing normally differentiated villi that can be used for interventional/invasive research. Here, we summarized and correlated early villous differentiation findings and discussed clinical diseases.
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James JL, Lissaman A, Nursalim YNS, Chamley LW. Modelling human placental villous development: designing cultures that reflect anatomy. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:384. [PMID: 35753002 PMCID: PMC9234034 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04407-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
The use of in vitro tools to study trophoblast differentiation and function is essential to improve understanding of normal and abnormal placental development. The relative accessibility of human placentae enables the use of primary trophoblasts and placental explants in a range of in vitro systems. Recent advances in stem cell models, three-dimensional organoid cultures, and organ-on-a-chip systems have further shed light on the complex microenvironment and cell-cell crosstalk involved in placental development. However, understanding each model's strengths and limitations, and which in vivo aspects of human placentation in vitro data acquired does, or does not, accurately reflect, is key to interpret findings appropriately. To help researchers use and design anatomically accurate culture models, this review both outlines our current understanding of placental development, and critically considers the range of established and emerging culture models used to study this, with a focus on those derived from primary tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna L James
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Abbey Lissaman
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Yohanes N S Nursalim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Lawrence W Chamley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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13
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PM10 Alters Trophoblast Cell Function and Modulates miR-125b-5p Expression. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 2022:3697944. [PMID: 35036432 PMCID: PMC8759905 DOI: 10.1155/2022/3697944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2021] [Revised: 11/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Air pollution is one of the largest global environmental health hazards that threaten premature mortality or morbidity. Particulate matter 10 (PM10) has been demonstrated to contribute to several human diseases via dysregulated miRNA expression. Trophoblast cells play a key role in implantation and placentation for a successful pregnancy. Nonetheless, the PM10 associated trophoblast cell functions during pregnancy and miRNA expression are still unknown. Our study showed that PM10 affected HTR-8/SVneo cell viability and also decreased cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. A high concentration of PM10 caused an increase in HTR-8/SVneo cell apoptosis. Treatment with PM10 induced inflammation through the upregulated IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α expression in trophoblast cells. In PM10-treated HTR-8/SVneo cells, miR-125b-5p expression was considerably increased and TXNRD1 was found to be negatively related to miR-125b-5p. Collectively, our findings revealed that PM10 could alter miR-125b-5p expression by targeting TXNRD1 and suppressing trophoblast cell functions. Additional investigations relating to the function of miR-125b-5p and its target on particulate pollution exposure in trophoblast are warranted for future biomarker or effective therapeutic approaches.
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14
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Computational modeling in pregnancy biomechanics research. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2022; 128:105099. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2022.105099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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15
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James JL, Boss AL, Sun C, Allerkamp HH, Clark AR. From stem cells to spiral arteries: A journey through early placental development. Placenta 2021; 125:68-77. [PMID: 34819240 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2021.11.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Revised: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 11/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Early placental development lays the foundation of a healthy pregnancy, and numerous tightly regulated processes must occur for the placenta to meet the increasing nutrient and oxygen exchange requirements of the growing fetus later in gestation. Inadequacies in early placental development can result in disorders such as fetal growth restriction that do not present clinically until the second half of gestation. Indeed, growth restricted placentae exhibit impaired placental development and function, including reduced overall placental size, decreased branching of villi and the blood vessels within them, altered trophoblast function, and impaired uterine vascular remodelling, which together combine to reduce placental exchange capacity. This review explores the importance of early placental development across multiple anatomical aspects of placentation, from the stem cells and lineage hierarchies from which villous core cells and trophoblasts arise, through extravillous trophoblast invasion and spiral artery remodelling, and finally remodelling of the larger uterine vessels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna L James
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Anna L Boss
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Cherry Sun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Hanna H Allerkamp
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, New Zealand; Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Alys R Clark
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland, New Zealand
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16
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Uteroplacental Circulation in Normal Pregnancy and Preeclampsia: Functional Adaptation and Maladaptation. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22168622. [PMID: 34445328 PMCID: PMC8395300 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22168622] [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: 07/26/2021] [Revised: 08/04/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Uteroplacental blood flow increases as pregnancy advances. Adequate supply of nutrients and oxygen carried by uteroplacental blood flow is essential for the well-being of the mother and growth/development of the fetus. The uteroplacental hemodynamic change is accomplished primarily through uterine vascular adaptation, involving hormonal regulation of myogenic tone, vasoreactivity, release of vasoactive factors and others, in addition to the remodeling of spiral arteries. In preeclampsia, hormonal and angiogenic imbalance, proinflammatory cytokines and autoantibodies cause dysfunction of both endothelium and vascular smooth muscle cells of the uteroplacental vasculature. Consequently, the vascular dysfunction leads to increased vascular resistance and reduced blood flow in the uteroplacental circulation. In this article, the (mal)adaptation of uteroplacental vascular function in normal pregnancy and preeclampsia and underlying mechanisms are reviewed.
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Olmos-Ortiz A, Flores-Espinosa P, Díaz L, Velázquez P, Ramírez-Isarraraz C, Zaga-Clavellina V. Immunoendocrine Dysregulation during Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: The Central Role of the Placenta. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:8087. [PMID: 34360849 PMCID: PMC8348825 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22158087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a transitory metabolic condition caused by dysregulation triggered by intolerance to carbohydrates, dysfunction of beta-pancreatic and endothelial cells, and insulin resistance during pregnancy. However, this disease includes not only changes related to metabolic distress but also placental immunoendocrine adaptations, resulting in harmful effects to the mother and fetus. In this review, we focus on the placenta as an immuno-endocrine organ that can recognize and respond to the hyperglycemic environment. It synthesizes diverse chemicals that play a role in inflammation, innate defense, endocrine response, oxidative stress, and angiogenesis, all associated with different perinatal outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Olmos-Ortiz
- Departamento de Inmunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes (INPer), Ciudad de México 11000, Mexico; (A.O.-O.); (P.F.-E.)
| | - Pilar Flores-Espinosa
- Departamento de Inmunobioquímica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes (INPer), Ciudad de México 11000, Mexico; (A.O.-O.); (P.F.-E.)
| | - Lorenza Díaz
- Departamento de Biología de la Reproducción, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Ciudad de México 14080, Mexico;
| | - Pilar Velázquez
- Departamento de Ginecología y Obstetricia, Hospital Ángeles México, Ciudad de México 11800, Mexico;
| | - Carlos Ramírez-Isarraraz
- Clínica de Urología Ginecológica, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes (INPer), Ciudad de México 11000, Mexico;
| | - Verónica Zaga-Clavellina
- Departamento de Fisiología y Desarrollo Celular, Instituto Nacional de Perinatología Isidro Espinosa de los Reyes (INPer), Ciudad de México 11000, Mexico
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18
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Hypoxia and the integrated stress response promote pulmonary hypertension and preeclampsia: Implications in drug development. Drug Discov Today 2021; 26:2754-2773. [PMID: 34302972 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2021.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 07/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Chronic hypoxia is a common cause of pulmonary hypertension, preeclampsia, and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). The molecular mechanisms underlying these diseases are not completely understood. Chronic hypoxia may induce the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in mitochondria, promote endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, and result in the integrated stress response (ISR) in the pulmonary artery and uteroplacental tissues. Numerous studies have implicated hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs), oxidative stress, and ER stress/unfolded protein response (UPR) in the development of pulmonary hypertension, preeclampsia and IUGR. This review highlights the roles of HIFs, mitochondria-derived ROS and UPR, as well as their interplay, in the pathogenesis of pulmonary hypertension and preeclampsia, and their implications in drug development.
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Jin M, Xu S, Li J, Li L, Tang C. Role of ARID1A in the Regulation of Human Trophoblast Migration and Invasion. Reprod Sci 2021; 29:2363-2373. [PMID: 34255312 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00686-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Migration and invasion of trophoblasts is critical for human placental development, trophoblastic differentiation, and pregnancy-associated diseases. AT-rich interactive domain-containing protein 1A (ARID1A), a subunit of the SWI-SNF complex, has been suggested to participate in the regulation of fertility via placental disruption in mice. However, whether ARID1A regulates human placental development and function remains unknown. Here, using human trophoblast-like JEG-3 cell line, we report that ARID1A controls trophoblast cell migration and invasion. Overexpression of ARID1A inhibits JEG-3 cell migration and invasion, whereas knockdown of ARID1A promotes migration and invasion in JEG-3 cells. Mechanistically, while ARID1A reduces JEG-3 cell migration by down-regulation of Snail transcription, it restrains JEG-3 cell invasion by binding to and destabilization of MMP-9 protein. Finally, ARID1A is apparently up-regulated in placental tissues of preeclampsia compared to that of normal pregnancies. Our results thereby imply that ARID1A acts as a critical gene in supporting the physiological function of human mature placenta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meiyuan Jin
- Department of Obstetrics, Tongde Hospital of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou, 310012, China
| | - Shouying Xu
- National Clinical Research Center for Child Health of the Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310052, China
| | - Jiayong Li
- Department of Ophthalmology, Hangzhou Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital Affiliated to Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, 310007, China
| | - Lu Li
- College of Pharmaceutical Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Chao Tang
- National Clinical Research Center for Child Health of the Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310052, China.
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20
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Allerkamp HH, Clark AR, Lee TC, Morgan TK, Burton GJ, James JL. Something old, something new: digital quantification of uterine vascular remodelling and trophoblast plugging in historical collections provides new insight into adaptation of the utero-placental circulation. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:571-586. [PMID: 33600565 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deaa303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Revised: 10/08/2020] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What is the physiological extent of vascular remodelling in and trophoblast plugging of the uterine circulation across the first half of pregnancy? SUMMARY ANSWER All levels of the uterine vascular tree (arcuate, radial and spiral arteries (SAs)) dilate ∼2.6- to 4.3-fold between 6 and 20 weeks of gestation, with significant aggregates of trophoblasts persisting in the decidual and myometrial parts of SAs beyond the first trimester. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY In early pregnancy, endovascular trophoblasts form 'plugs' in the SAs, transiently inhibiting blood flow to the placenta, whilst concurrently the uterine vasculature undergoes significant adaption to facilitate increased blood delivery to the placenta later in gestation. These processes are impaired in pregnancy disorders, but quantitative understanding of the anatomical changes even in normal pregnancy is poor. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Serial sections of normal placentae in situ (n = 22) of 6.1-20.5 weeks of gestation from the Boyd collection and Dixon collection (University of Cambridge, UK) were digitalized using a slide scanner or Axio Imager.A1 microscope. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Spiral (n = 45), radial (n = 40) and arcuate (n = 39) arteries were manually segmented. Using custom-written scripts for Matlab® software, artery dimensions (Feret diameters; major axes; luminal/wall area) and endovascular trophoblast plug/aggregate (n = 24) porosities were calculated. Diameters of junctional zone SAs within the myometrium (n = 35) were acquired separately using a micrometre and light microscope. Decidual thickness and trophoblast plug depth was measured using ImageJ. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE By all measures, radial and arcuate artery dimensions progressively increased from 6.1 to 20.5 weeks (P < 0.01). The greatest increase in SA calibre occurred after 12 weeks of gestation. Trophoblast aggregates were found to persist within decidual and myometrial parts of SA lumens beyond the first trimester, and up to 18.5 weeks of gestation, although those present in the second trimester did not appear to prevent the passage of red blood cells to the intervillous space. Trophoblasts forming these aggregates became more compact (decreased in porosity) over gestation, whilst channel size between cells increased (P = 0.01). Decidual thickness decreased linearly over gestation (P = 0.0003), meaning plugs occupied an increasing proportion of the decidua (P = 0.02). LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Although serial sections were assessed, two-dimensional images cannot completely reflect the three-dimensional properties and connectivity of vessels and plugs/aggregates. Immersion-fixation of the specimens means that vessel size may be under-estimated. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Uterine vascular remodelling and trophoblast plug dispersion is a progressive phenomenon that is not completed by the end of the first trimester. Our quantitative findings support the concept that radial arteries present a major site of resistance until mid-gestation. Their dimensional increase at 10-12 weeks of gestation may explain the rapid increase in blood flow to the placenta observed by others at ∼13 weeks. Measured properties of trophoblast plugs suggest that they will impact on the resistance, shear stress and nature of blood flow within the utero-placental vasculature until mid-gestation. The presence of channels within plugs will likely lead to high velocity flow streams and thus increase shear stress experienced by the trophoblasts forming the aggregates. Quantitative understanding of utero-placental vascular adaptation gained here will improve in silico modelling of utero-placental haemodynamics and provide new insights into pregnancy disorders, such as fetal growth restriction. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by a Royal Society Te Aparangi Marsden Grant [18-UOA-135]. A.R.C. is supported by a Rutherford Discovery Fellowship [14-UOA-019]. The authors have no conflict of interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanna H Allerkamp
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Alys R Clark
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Tet Chuan Lee
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Terry K Morgan
- Department of Pathology, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR, USA
| | - Graham J Burton
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Joanna L James
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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21
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Winship A, Donoghue J, Houston BJ, Martin JH, Lord T, Adwal A, Gonzalez M, Desroziers E, Ahmad G, Richani D, Bromfield EG. Reproductive health research in Australia and New Zealand: highlights from the Annual Meeting of the Society for Reproductive Biology, 2019. Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 32:637-647. [PMID: 32234188 DOI: 10.1071/rd19449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The 2019 meeting of the Society for Reproductive Biology (SRB) provided a platform for the dissemination of new knowledge and innovations to improve reproductive health in humans, enhance animal breeding efficiency and understand the effect of the environment on reproductive processes. The effects of environment and lifestyle on fertility and animal behaviour are emerging as the most important modern issues facing reproductive health. Here, we summarise key highlights from recent work on endocrine-disrupting chemicals and diet- and lifestyle-induced metabolic changes and how these factors affect reproduction. This is particularly important to discuss in the context of potential effects on the reproductive potential that may be imparted to future generations of humans and animals. In addition to key summaries of new work in the male and female reproductive tract and on the health of the placenta, for the first time the SRB meeting included a workshop on endometriosis. This was an important opportunity for researchers, healthcare professionals and patient advocates to unite and provide critical updates on efforts to reduce the effect of this chronic disease and to improve the welfare of the women it affects. These new findings and directions are captured in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Winship
- Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Stem Cells and Development Program, Monash University, Vic. 3800, Australia
| | - Jacqueline Donoghue
- The University of Melbourne, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Vic. 3052, Australia
| | - Brendan J Houston
- School of Biological Sciences, Monash University, Vic. 3800, Australia
| | - Jacinta H Martin
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia
| | - Tessa Lord
- Hunter Medical Research Institute, Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, New Lambton Heights, NSW 2305, Australia; and Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2300, Australia
| | - Alaknanda Adwal
- The University of Adelaide Robinson Research Institute, Adelaide Medical School, North Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Macarena Gonzalez
- The University of Adelaide Robinson Research Institute, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
| | - Elodie Desroziers
- Department of Physiology and Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Gulfam Ahmad
- The University of Sydney Medical School, Discipline of Pathology, School of Medical Sciences, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Dulama Richani
- School of Women's and Children's Health, Fertility and Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052 Australia
| | - Elizabeth G Bromfield
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2300, Australia; and Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Utrecht University, Netherlands; and Corresponding author:
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Burton GJ, Jauniaux E. Placentation in the Human and Higher Primates. ADVANCES IN ANATOMY, EMBRYOLOGY, AND CELL BIOLOGY 2021; 234:223-254. [PMID: 34694484 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-77360-1_11] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Placentation in humans is precocious and highly invasive compared to other mammals. Implantation is interstitial, with the conceptus becoming completely embedded within the endometrium towards the end of the second week post-fertilization. Villi initially form over the entire surface of the chorionic sac, stimulated by histotrophic secretions from the endometrial glands. The secondary yolk sac never makes contact with the chorion, and a choriovitelline placenta is never established. However, recent morphological and transcriptomic analyses suggest that the yolk sac plays an important role in the uptake of nutrients from the coelomic fluid. Measurements performed in vivo demonstrate that early development takes place in a physiological, low-oxygen environment that protects against teratogenic free radicals and maintains stem cells in a multipotent state. The maternal arterial circulation to the placenta is only fully established around 10-12 weeks of gestation. By then, villi have regressed over the superficial, abembryonic pole, leaving the definitive discoid placenta, which is of the villous, hemochorial type. Remodeling of the maternal spiral arteries is essential to ensure a high-volume but low-velocity inflow into the mature placenta. Extravillous trophoblast cells migrate from anchoring villi and surround the arteries. Their interactions with maternal immune cells release cytokines and proteases that are key to remodeling, and a successful pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graham J Burton
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.
| | - Eric Jauniaux
- Faculty of Population Health Sciences, EGA Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
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23
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Clark AR, Lee TC, James JL. Computational modeling of the interactions between the maternal and fetal circulations in human pregnancy. WIREs Mech Dis 2020; 13:e1502. [PMID: 32744412 DOI: 10.1002/wsbm.1502] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
In pregnancy, fetal growth is supported by its placenta. In turn, the placenta is nourished by maternal blood, delivered from the uterus, in which the vasculature is dramatically transformed to deliver this blood an ever increasing volume throughout gestation. A healthy pregnancy is thus dependent on the development of both the placental and maternal circulations, but also the interface where these physically separate circulations come in close proximity to exchange gases and nutrients between mum and baby. As the system continually evolves during pregnancy, our understanding of normal vascular anatomy, and how this impacts placental exchange function is limited. Understanding this is key to improve our ability to understand, predict, and detect pregnancy pathologies, but presents a number of challenges, due to the inaccessibility of the pregnant uterus to invasive measurements, and limitations in the resolution of imaging modalities safe for use in pregnancy. Computational approaches provide an opportunity to gain new insights into normal and abnormal pregnancy, by connecting observed anatomical changes from high-resolution imaging to function, and providing metrics that can be observed by routine clinical ultrasound. Such advanced modeling brings with it challenges to scale detailed anatomical models to reflect organ level function. This suggests pathways for future research to provide models that provide both physiological insights into pregnancy health, but also are simple enough to guide clinical focus. We the review evolution of computational approaches to understanding the physiology and pathophysiology of pregnancy in the uterus, placenta, and beyond focusing on both opportunities and challenges. This article is categorized under: Reproductive System Diseases >Computational Models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alys R Clark
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Tet Chuan Lee
- Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Joanna L James
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Oestrogenic Endocrine Disruptors in the Placenta and the Fetus. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21041519. [PMID: 32102189 PMCID: PMC7073155 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21041519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Revised: 02/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) are exogenous substances that interfere with the stability and regulation of the endocrine system of the body or its offspring. These substances are generally stable in chemical properties, not easy to be biodegraded, and can be enriched in organisms. In the past half century, EDCs have gradually entered the food chain, and these substances have been frequently found in maternal blood. Perinatal maternal hormone levels are unstable and vulnerable to EDCs. Some EDCs can affect embryonic development through the blood-fetal barrier and cause damage to the neuroendocrine system, liver function, and genital development. Some also effect cross-generational inheritance through epigenetic mechanisms. This article mainly elaborates the mechanism and detection methods of estrogenic endocrine disruptors, such as bisphenol A (BPA), organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), diethylstilbestrol (DES) and phthalates (PAEs), and their effects on placenta and fetal health in order to raise concerns about the proper use of products containing EDCs during pregnancy and provide a reference for human health.
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Moser G, Guettler J, Forstner D, Gauster M. Maternal Platelets—Friend or Foe of the Human Placenta? Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20225639. [PMID: 31718032 PMCID: PMC6888633 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20225639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Revised: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Human pregnancy relies on hemochorial placentation, including implantation of the blastocyst and deep invasion of fetal trophoblast cells into maternal uterine blood vessels, enabling direct contact of maternal blood with placental villi. Hemochorial placentation requires fast and reliable hemostasis to guarantee survival of the mother, but also for the neonates. During human pregnancy, maternal platelet count decreases gradually from first, to second, and third trimester. In addition to hemodilution, accelerated platelet sequestration and consumption in the placental circulation may contribute to a decline of platelet count throughout gestation. Local stasis, turbulences, or damage of the syncytiotrophoblast layer can activate maternal platelets within the placental intervillous space and result in formation of fibrin-type fibrinoid. Perivillous fibrinoid is a regular constituent of the normal placenta which is considered to be an important regulator of intervillous hemodynamics, as well as having a role in shaping the developing villous trees. However, exaggerated activation of platelets at the maternal-fetal interface can provoke inflammasome activation in the placental trophoblast, and enhance formation of circulating platelet-monocyte aggregates, resulting in sterile inflammation of the placenta and a systemic inflammatory response in the mother. Hence, the degree of activation determines whether maternal platelets are a friend or foe of the human placenta. Exaggerated activation of maternal platelets can either directly cause or propagate the disease process in placenta-associated pregnancy pathologies, such as preeclampsia.
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26
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Miller KS, Myers K, Oyen M. Bioengineering in women's health, volume 2: pregnancy—from implantation to parturition. Interface Focus 2019. [DOI: 10.1098/rsfs.2019.0081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
This special issue of
Interface Focus
is the second of two sets of articles on the topic of bioengineering in women's health. This second issue in the series focuses on pregnancy, a dynamic time in a women's life that involves dramatic physiologic changes within a relatively small timeframe. Pregnancy demands endurance and resilience of one's body and represents a critical component of women's health research. The health of an individual leading up to, during and after pregnancy is paramount for reproductive health and the lifelong health of offspring. The articles in this issue explore physiological events that support reproduction spanning from embryo implantation, through gestation, to delivery and parturition. Specifically, the articles highlight essential developments in placenta, fetal membranes, cervix, pelvic floor and anthropometry research. The featured bioengineering disciplines deployed to study such complex biological processes are diverse, with articles detailing the latest advancements in computational modelling at various biological length-scales, biomaterial design, material modelling, non-invasive diagnostic techniques, microfluidic devices and experimental mechanics. This second issue continues the first in this series, on the physiology of the non-pregnant woman.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin S. Miller
- Biomedical Engineering, Tulane University, 500 Lindy Boggs Center, New Orleans, LA 70118, USA
| | - Kristin Myers
- Mechanical Engineering, Columbia University, New York, NY 10025, USA
| | - Michelle Oyen
- Department of Engineering, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC, USA
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