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Van Schoor K, Bruet E, Jones EAV, Migeotte I. Origin and flow-mediated remodeling of the murine and human extraembryonic circulation systems. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1395006. [PMID: 38818524 PMCID: PMC11137303 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1395006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2024] [Accepted: 04/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
The transduction of mechanical stimuli produced by blood flow is an important regulator of vascular development. The vitelline and umbilico-placental circulations are extraembryonic vascular systems that are required for proper embryonic development in mammalian embryos. The morphogenesis of the extraembryonic vasculature and the cardiovascular system of the embryo are hemodynamically and molecularly connected. Here we provide an overview of the establishment of the murine and human vitelline and umbilico-placental vascular systems and how blood flow influences various steps in their development. A deeper comprehension of extraembryonic vessel development may aid the establishment of stem-cell based embryo models and provide novel insights to understanding pregnancy complications related to the umbilical cord and placenta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristof Van Schoor
- Institut de Recherche Interdisciplinaire Jacques E. Dumont, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Emmanuel Bruet
- Institut de Recherche Interdisciplinaire Jacques E. Dumont, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Elizabeth Anne Vincent Jones
- Department of Cardiovascular Sciences, Centre for Molecular and Vascular Biology, Katholieke Universiteit Leuven (KU Leuven), Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Cardiology CARIM School for Cardiovascular Diseases Maastricht University, Maastricht, Netherlands
| | - Isabelle Migeotte
- Institut de Recherche Interdisciplinaire Jacques E. Dumont, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Brussels, Belgium
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2
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Gualdoni GS, Barril C, Jacobo PV, Pacheco Rodríguez LN, Cebral E. Involvement of metalloproteinase and nitric oxide synthase/nitric oxide mechanisms in early decidual angiogenesis-vascularization of normal and experimental pathological mouse placenta related to maternal alcohol exposure. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1207671. [PMID: 37670932 PMCID: PMC10476144 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1207671] [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: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Successful pregnancy for optimal fetal growth requires adequate early angiogenesis and remodeling of decidual spiral arterioles during placentation. Prior to the initiation of invasion and endothelial replacement by trophoblasts, interactions between decidual stromal cells and maternal leukocytes, such as uterine natural killer cells and macrophages, play crucial roles in the processes of early maternal vascularization, such as proliferation, apoptosis, migration, differentiation, and matrix and vessel remodeling. These placental angiogenic events are highly dependent on the coordination of several mechanisms at the early maternal-fetal interface, and one of them is the expression and activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and endothelial nitric oxide synthases (NOSs). Inadequate balances of MMPs and nitric oxide (NO) are involved in several placentopathies and pregnancy complications. Since alcohol consumption during gestation can affect fetal growth associated with abnormal placental development, recently, we showed, in a mouse model, that perigestational alcohol consumption up to organogenesis induces fetal malformations related to deficient growth and vascular morphogenesis of the placenta at term. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of the early processes of maternal vascularization that lead to the formation of the definitive placenta and the roles of angiogenic MMP and NOS/NO mechanisms during normal and altered early gestation in mice. Then, we propose hypothetical defective decidual cellular and MMP and NOS/NO mechanisms involved in abnormal decidual vascularization induced by perigestational alcohol consumption in an experimental mouse model. This review highlights the important roles of decidual cells and their MMP and NOS balances in the physiological and pathophysiological early maternal angiogenesis-vascularization during placentation in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Elisa Cebral
- Laboratorio de Reproducción y Fisiología Materno-Embrionaria, Instituto de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental y Aplicada (IBBEA), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET), Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental (DBBE), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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3
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Fallahi S, Houck JA, Euser AG, Julian CG, Moore LG, Lorca RA. High altitude differentially modulates potassium channel-evoked vasodilatation in pregnant human myometrial arteries. J Physiol 2022; 600:5353-5364. [PMID: 36286320 PMCID: PMC9772154 DOI: 10.1113/jp283741] [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: 08/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
High-altitude (>2500 m or 8200 ft) residence reduces uterine artery blood flow during pregnancy, contributing to an increased incidence of preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction. However, not all pregnancies are affected by the chronic hypoxic conditions of high-altitude residence. K+ channels play important roles in the uterine vascular adaptation to pregnancy, promoting a reduction in myogenic tone and an increase in blood flow. We hypothesized that, in pregnancies with normal fetal growth at high altitude, K+ channel-dependent vasodilatation of myometrial arteries is increased compared to those from healthy pregnant women at a lower altitude (∼1700 m). Using pharmacological modulation of two K+ channels, ATP-sensitive (KATP ) and large-conductance Ca2+ -activated (BKCa ) K+ channels, we assessed the vasodilatation of myometrial arteries from appropriate for gestational age (AGA) pregnancies in women living at high or low altitudes. In addition, we evaluated the localization of these channels in the myometrial arteries using immunofluorescence. Our results showed an endothelium-dependent increase in KATP -dependent vasodilatation in myometrial arteries from high versus low altitude, whereas vasodilatation induced by BKCa activation was reduced in these vessels. Additionally, KATP channel co-localization with endothelial markers was reduced in the high-altitude myometrial arteries, which suggested that the functional increase in KATP activity may be by mechanisms other than regulation of channel localization. These observations highlight an important contribution of K+ channels to the human uterine vascular adaptation to pregnancy at high altitude serving to maintain normal fetal growth under conditions of chronic hypoxia. KEY POINTS: High-altitude (>2500 m or 8200 ft) residence reduces uterine blood flow during pregnancy and fetal growth. Animal models of high altitude/chronic hypoxia suggest that these reductions are partially due to reduced vascular K+. channel responses, such as those elicited by large conductance Ca2+ -activated (BKCa ) and ATP-sensitive (KATP ) K+ channel activation. We found that women residing at high versus low altitude during pregnancy showed diminished myometrial artery vasodilatory responses to endothelium-independent BKCa channel activation but greater responses to endothelium-dependent KATP channel activation. Our observations indicate that KATP channels play an adaptive role in maintaining myometrial artery vasodilator sensitivity under chronic hypoxic conditions during pregnancy. Thus, KATP channels represent potential therapeutic targets for augmenting uteroplacental blood flow and, in turn, preserving fetal growth in cases of uteroplacental hypoperfusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahand Fallahi
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Denver-Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045
| | - Julie A. Houck
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Colorado Denver-Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045
| | - Anna G. Euser
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Denver-Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045
| | - Colleen G. Julian
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Colorado Denver-Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045
| | - Lorna G. Moore
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Denver-Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045
| | - Ramón A. Lorca
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Denver-Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045
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Chuaiphichai S, Yu GZ, Tan CM, Whiteman C, Douglas G, Dickinson Y, Drydale EN, Appari M, Zhang W, Crabtree MJ, McNeill E, Hale AB, Lewandowski AJ, Alp NJ, Vatish M, Leeson P, Channon KM. Endothelial GTPCH (GTP Cyclohydrolase 1) and Tetrahydrobiopterin Regulate Gestational Blood Pressure, Uteroplacental Remodeling, and Fetal Growth. Hypertension 2021; 78:1871-1884. [PMID: 34689592 PMCID: PMC8577301 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.120.17646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Accepted: 07/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
[Figure: see text].
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Affiliation(s)
- Surawee Chuaiphichai
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom (S.C., C.W., G.D., Y.D., E.N.D., M.A., M.J.C., E.M., A.B.H., N.J.A., K.M.C.)
| | - Grace Z. Yu
- Oxford Cardiovascular Clinical Research Facility, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine (G.Z.Y., C.M.J.T., A.J.L., P.L.), University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Cheryl M.J. Tan
- Oxford Cardiovascular Clinical Research Facility, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine (G.Z.Y., C.M.J.T., A.J.L., P.L.), University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Christopher Whiteman
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom (S.C., C.W., G.D., Y.D., E.N.D., M.A., M.J.C., E.M., A.B.H., N.J.A., K.M.C.)
- Oxford Cardiovascular Clinical Research Facility, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine (G.Z.Y., C.M.J.T., A.J.L., P.L.), University of Oxford, United Kingdom
- Nuffield Department of Women’s and Reproductive Health (W.Z., M.V.), University of Oxford, United Kingdom
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford University Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust, John Radcliffe Hospital, United Kingdom (M.V., K.M.C.)
| | - Gillian Douglas
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom (S.C., C.W., G.D., Y.D., E.N.D., M.A., M.J.C., E.M., A.B.H., N.J.A., K.M.C.)
| | - Yasmin Dickinson
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom (S.C., C.W., G.D., Y.D., E.N.D., M.A., M.J.C., E.M., A.B.H., N.J.A., K.M.C.)
| | - Edward N. Drydale
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom (S.C., C.W., G.D., Y.D., E.N.D., M.A., M.J.C., E.M., A.B.H., N.J.A., K.M.C.)
| | - Mahesh Appari
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom (S.C., C.W., G.D., Y.D., E.N.D., M.A., M.J.C., E.M., A.B.H., N.J.A., K.M.C.)
| | - Wei Zhang
- Nuffield Department of Women’s and Reproductive Health (W.Z., M.V.), University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Mark J. Crabtree
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom (S.C., C.W., G.D., Y.D., E.N.D., M.A., M.J.C., E.M., A.B.H., N.J.A., K.M.C.)
| | - Eileen McNeill
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom (S.C., C.W., G.D., Y.D., E.N.D., M.A., M.J.C., E.M., A.B.H., N.J.A., K.M.C.)
| | - Ashley B. Hale
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom (S.C., C.W., G.D., Y.D., E.N.D., M.A., M.J.C., E.M., A.B.H., N.J.A., K.M.C.)
| | - Adam J. Lewandowski
- Oxford Cardiovascular Clinical Research Facility, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine (G.Z.Y., C.M.J.T., A.J.L., P.L.), University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Nicholas J. Alp
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom (S.C., C.W., G.D., Y.D., E.N.D., M.A., M.J.C., E.M., A.B.H., N.J.A., K.M.C.)
| | - Manu Vatish
- Nuffield Department of Women’s and Reproductive Health (W.Z., M.V.), University of Oxford, United Kingdom
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford University Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust, John Radcliffe Hospital, United Kingdom (M.V., K.M.C.)
| | - Paul Leeson
- Oxford Cardiovascular Clinical Research Facility, Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, Radcliffe Department of Medicine (G.Z.Y., C.M.J.T., A.J.L., P.L.), University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Keith M. Channon
- Division of Cardiovascular Medicine, British Heart Foundation Centre of Research Excellence, Radcliffe Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, United Kingdom (S.C., C.W., G.D., Y.D., E.N.D., M.A., M.J.C., E.M., A.B.H., N.J.A., K.M.C.)
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford University Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust, John Radcliffe Hospital, United Kingdom (M.V., K.M.C.)
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5
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Overduin TS, Page AJ, Young RL, Gatford KL. Adaptations in gastrointestinal nutrient absorption and its determinants during pregnancy in monogastric mammals: a scoping review protocol. JBI Evid Synth 2021; 20:640-646. [PMID: 35165214 DOI: 10.11124/jbies-21-00025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this review is to characterize the current state of literature and knowledge regarding adaptations of gastrointestinal nutrient absorption, and the determinants of this absorption during pregnancy in monogastric mammals. INTRODUCTION Energy demands increase significantly during pregnancy due to the metabolic demands associated with placental and fetal growth, and the deposition of fat stores that support postnatal lactation. Previous studies have examined anatomical changes within the small intestine, but have focused on specific pregnancy stages or specific regions of the small intestine. Importantly, little is known about changes in nutrient absorption during pregnancy, and the underlying mechanisms that lead to these changes. An understanding of these adaptations will inform research to improve pregnancy outcomes for both mothers and newborns in the future. INCLUSION CRITERIA This review will include primary literature that describes gastrointestinal nutrient absorption and/or its determinants during pregnancy in monogastric mammals, including humans and rodents. Only data for normal pregnancies will be included, and models of pathology and illness will be excluded. Studies must include comparisons between pregnant animals at known stages of pregnancy, and non-pregnant controls, or compare animals at different stages of pregnancy. METHODS The following databases will be searched for literature on this topic: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, MEDLINE, and ProQuest Dissertations and Theses. Evidence screening and selection will be carried out independently by two reviewers, and conflicts will be resolved through discussion with additional members of the review team. Data will be extracted and presented in tables and/or figures, together with a narrative summary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teunis Sebastian Overduin
- Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Nutrition, Diabetes and Gut Health, Lifelong Health Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Amanda J Page
- Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Nutrition, Diabetes and Gut Health, Lifelong Health Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Richard L Young
- Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Nutrition, Diabetes and Gut Health, Lifelong Health Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Kathryn L Gatford
- Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Nutrition, Diabetes and Gut Health, Lifelong Health Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Adelaide, SA, Australia.,Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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6
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Fournier SB, D'Errico JN, Stapleton PA. Uterine Vascular Control Preconception and During Pregnancy. Compr Physiol 2021; 11:1871-1893. [PMID: 34061977 DOI: 10.1002/cphy.c190015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Successful pregnancy and reproduction are dependent on adequate uterine blood flow, placental perfusion, and vascular responsivity to fetal demands. The ability to support pregnancy centers on systemic adaptation and endometrial preparation through decidualization, embryonic implantation, trophoblast invasion, arterial/arteriolar reactivity, and vascular remodeling. These adaptations occur through responsiveness to endocrine signaling and local uteroplacental mediators. The purpose of this article is to highlight the current knowledge associated with vascular remodeling and responsivity during uterine preparation for and during pregnancy. We focus on maternal cardiovascular systemic and uterine modifications, endometrial decidualization, implantation and invasion, uterine and spiral artery remodeling, local uterine regulatory mechanisms, placentation, and pathological consequences of vascular dysfunction during pregnancy. © 2021 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 11:1-23, 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara B Fournier
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Jeanine N D'Errico
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Phoebe A Stapleton
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA.,Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
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7
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Gnyawali SC, Sinha M, El Masry MS, Wulff B, Ghatak S, Soto-Gonzalez F, Wilgus TA, Roy S, Sen CK. High resolution ultrasound imaging for repeated measure of wound tissue morphometry, biomechanics and hemodynamics under fetal, adult and diabetic conditions. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0241831. [PMID: 33227015 PMCID: PMC7682876 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0241831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2019] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Non-invasive, repeated interrogation of the same wound is necessary to understand the tissue repair continuum. In this work, we sought to test the significance of non-invasive high-frequency high-resolution ultrasound technology for such interrogation. High-frequency high-resolution ultrasound imaging was employed to investigate wound healing under fetal and adult conditions. Quantitative tissue cellularity and elastic strain was obtained for visualization of unresolved inflammation using Vevo strain software. Hemodynamic properties of the blood flow in the artery supplying the wound-site were studied using color Doppler flow imaging. Non-invasive monitoring of fetal and adult wound healing provided unprecedented biomechanical and functional insight. Fetal wounds showed highly accelerated closure with transient perturbation of wound tissue cellularity. Fetal hemodynamics was unique in that sharp fall in arterial pulse pressure (APP) which was rapidly restored within 48h post-wounding. In adults, APP transiently increased post-wounding before returning to the pre-wounding levels by d10 post-wounding. The pattern of change in the elasticity of wound-edge tissue of diabetics was strikingly different. Severe strain acquired during the early inflammatory phase persisted with a slower recovery of elasticity compared to that of the non-diabetic group. Wound bed of adult diabetic mice (db/db) showed persistent hypercellularity compared to littermate controls (db/+) indicative of prolonged inflammation. Normal skin strain of db/+ and db/db were asynchronous. In db/db, severe strain acquired during the early inflammatory phase persisted with a slower recovery of elasticity compared to that of non-diabetics. This study showcases a versatile clinically relevant imaging platform suitable for real-time analyses of functional wound healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surya C. Gnyawali
- Department of Surgery, Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Center for Regenerative Medicine & Cell-Based Therapies, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States of America
| | - Mithun Sinha
- Department of Surgery, Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Center for Regenerative Medicine & Cell-Based Therapies, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States of America
- Department of Surgery, IUH Comprehensive Wound Center, Indiana Center for Regenerative Medicine and Engineering, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America
| | - Mohamed S. El Masry
- Department of Surgery, Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Center for Regenerative Medicine & Cell-Based Therapies, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States of America
- Department of Surgery, IUH Comprehensive Wound Center, Indiana Center for Regenerative Medicine and Engineering, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Zagazig University, Zagazig, Egypt
| | - Brian Wulff
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States of America
| | - Subhadip Ghatak
- Department of Surgery, Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Center for Regenerative Medicine & Cell-Based Therapies, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States of America
- Department of Surgery, IUH Comprehensive Wound Center, Indiana Center for Regenerative Medicine and Engineering, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America
| | - Fidel Soto-Gonzalez
- Department of Surgery, Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Center for Regenerative Medicine & Cell-Based Therapies, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States of America
| | - Traci A. Wilgus
- Department of Pathology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States of America
| | - Sashwati Roy
- Department of Surgery, Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Center for Regenerative Medicine & Cell-Based Therapies, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States of America
- Department of Surgery, IUH Comprehensive Wound Center, Indiana Center for Regenerative Medicine and Engineering, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America
| | - Chandan K. Sen
- Department of Surgery, Davis Heart and Lung Research Institute, Center for Regenerative Medicine & Cell-Based Therapies, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, United States of America
- Department of Surgery, IUH Comprehensive Wound Center, Indiana Center for Regenerative Medicine and Engineering, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States of America
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8
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Sluka SHM, Stämpfli SF, Akhmedov A, Rodewald TK, Sanz-Moreno A, Horsch M, Grest P, Rothmeier AS, Rathkolb B, Schrewe A, Beckers J, Neff F, Wolf E, Camici GG, Fuchs H, Durner VG, de Angelis MH, Lüscher TF, Ruf W, Tanner FC. Murine tissue factor disulfide mutation causes a bleeding phenotype with sex specific organ pathology and lethality. Haematologica 2020; 105:2484-2495. [PMID: 33054088 PMCID: PMC7556672 DOI: 10.3324/haematol.2019.218818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2019] [Accepted: 08/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Tissue factor is highly expressed in sub-endothelial tissue. The extracellular allosteric disulfide bond Cys186-Cys209 of human tissue factor shows high evolutionary conservation and in vitro evidence suggests that it significantly contributes to tissue factor procoagulant activity. To investigate the role of this allosteric disulfide bond in vivo, we generated a C213G mutant tissue factor mouse by replacing Cys213 of the corresponding disulfide Cys190-Cys213 in murine tissue factor. A bleeding phenotype was prominent in homozygous C213G tissue factor mice. Pre-natal lethality of 1/3rd of homozygous offspring was observed between E9.5 and E14.5 associated with placental hemorrhages. After birth, homozygous mice suffered from bleedings in different organs and reduced survival. Homozygous C213G tissue factor male mice showed higher incidence of lung bleedings and lower survival rates than females. In both sexes, C213G mutation evoked a reduced protein expression (about 10-fold) and severely reduced pro-coagulant activity (about 1000-fold). Protein glycosylation was impaired and cell membrane exposure decreased in macrophages in vivo. Single housing of homozygous C213G tissue factor males reduced the occurrence of severe bleeding and significantly improved survival, suggesting that inter-male aggressiveness might significantly account for the sex differences. These experiments show that the tissue factor allosteric disulfide bond is of crucial importance for normal in vivo expression, post-translational processing and activity of murine tissue factor. Although C213G tissue factor mice do not display the severe embryonic lethality of tissue factor knock-out mice, their postnatal bleeding phenotype emphasizes the importance of fully functional tissue factor for hemostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Simon F. Stämpfli
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart Center, University Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland
- Cardiology Division, Heart Center, Luzerner Kantonsspital, Luzern, Switzerland
| | - Alexander Akhmedov
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Tanja Klein Rodewald
- German Mouse Clinic, Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München and German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Adrián Sanz-Moreno
- German Mouse Clinic, Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München and German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Marion Horsch
- German Mouse Clinic, Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München and German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Paula Grest
- Institute of Veterinary Pathology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Andrea S. Rothmeier
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Scripps Research, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Birgit Rathkolb
- German Mouse Clinic, Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München and German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
- Institute of Molecular Animal Breeding and Biotechnology, Gene Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-University München, Munich, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Anja Schrewe
- German Mouse Clinic, Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München and German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Johannes Beckers
- German Mouse Clinic, Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München and German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
- Experimental Genetics, School of Life Science Weihenstephan, Technische Universität München, Freising, Germany
| | - Frauke Neff
- German Mouse Clinic, Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München and German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Eckhard Wolf
- Institute of Molecular Animal Breeding and Biotechnology, Gene Center, Ludwig-Maximilians-University München, Munich, Germany
| | - Giovanni G. Camici
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Helmut Fuchs
- German Mouse Clinic, Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München and German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Valerie Gailus Durner
- German Mouse Clinic, Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München and German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Martin Hrabě de Angelis
- German Mouse Clinic, Institute of Experimental Genetics, Helmholtz Zentrum München and German Research Center for Environmental Health, Neuherberg, Germany
- German Center for Diabetes Research (DZD), Neuherberg, Germany
- Experimental Genetics, School of Life Science Weihenstephan, Technische Universität München, Freising, Germany
| | - Thomas F. Lüscher
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart Center, University Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Wolfram Ruf
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Scripps Research, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Center for Thrombosis and Hemostasis Johannes Gutenberg University Medical Center, Mainz, Germany
| | - Felix C. Tanner
- Center for Molecular Cardiology, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Cardiology, University Heart Center, University Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland
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9
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Cahill LS, Whitehead CL, Hobson SR, Stortz G, Kingdom JC, Baschat A, Murphy KE, Serghides L, Macgowan CK, Sled JG. Effect of maternal betamethasone administration on feto-placental vascular resistance in the mouse†. Biol Reprod 2020; 101:823-831. [PMID: 31318405 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2019] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Antenatal corticosteroids are often administered to women at risk of preterm birth to accelerate fetal lung development; however, there is evidence that this treatment may adversely affect placental function in some fetuses. Our group has recently demonstrated that wave reflections in the umbilical artery (UA), measured using high-frequency ultrasound, are sensitive to placental vascular abnormalities. In the present study, we used this approach to investigate the effect of maternal administration of betamethasone, a clinically relevant corticosteroid, on the feto-placental vasculature of the mouse. Fetuses were assessed at embryonic day (E)15.5 and E17.5 in C57BL6/J mice. At both gestational ages, the UA diameter, UA blood flow, and the wave reflection coefficient were significantly elevated in the betamethasone-treated mice compared to vehicle-treated controls. These observations support the interpretation that placental vascular resistance dropped with betamethasone treatment to an extent that could not be explained by vasodilation of the UA alone. Consistent with clinical studies, the effect of betamethasone on UA end-diastolic velocity was heterogeneous. Our results suggest that UA wave reflections are more sensitive to acute changes in placental vascular resistance compared with the UA pulsatility index, and this technique may have clinical application to identify a favorable placental vascular response to fetal therapies such as antenatal corticosteroids, where the fetal heart rate is likely to vary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay S Cahill
- Mouse Imaging Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Sebastian R Hobson
- Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Greg Stortz
- Translational Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - John C Kingdom
- Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ahmet Baschat
- Centre for Fetal Therapy, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Kellie E Murphy
- Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lena Serghides
- Toronto General Hospital Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Immunology and Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Women's College Research Institute, Women's College Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christopher K Macgowan
- Translational Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - John G Sled
- Mouse Imaging Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Translational Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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10
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Cardiac, renal and uterine hemodynamics changes throughout pregnancy in rats with a prolonged high fat diet from an early age. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0234861. [PMID: 32603330 PMCID: PMC7326224 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0234861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To examine whether the cardiac, renal and uterine physiological hemodynamic changes during gestation are altered in rats with an early and prolonged exposure to a high fat diet (HFD). Methods Arterial pressure and cardiac, renal, uterine and radial arteries hemodynamic changes during gestation were examined in adult SD rats exposed to normal (13%) (n = 8) or high (60%) (n = 8) fat diets from weaning. Plethysmography, high-resolution high-frequency ultrasonography and clearance of an inulin analog were used to evaluate the arterial pressure and hemodynamic changes before and at days 7, 14 and 19 of gestation. Results Arterial pressure was higher (P<0.05) in rats with high than in those with normal (NFD) fat diet before pregnancy (123 ±3 and 110 ±3 mmHg, respectively) and only decreased at day 14 of gestation in rats with NFD (98±4 mmHg, P<0.05). A significant increment in stroke volume (42 ±10%) and cardiac output (51 ±12%) was found at day 19 of pregnancy in rats with NFD. The changes in stroke volume and cardiac output were similar in rats with NFD and HFD. When compared to the values obtained before pregnancy, a transitory elevation in renal blood flow was found at day 14 of pregnancy in both groups. However, glomerular filtration rate only increased (P<0.05) in rats with NFD at days 14 (20 ±7%) and 19 (27 ±8%) of gestation. The significant elevations of mean velocity, and velocity time integral throughout gestation in radial (127 ±26% and 111 ±23%, respectively) and uterine (91 ±16% and 111 ±25%, respectively) arteries of rats with NFD were not found in rats with an early and prolonged HFD. Summary This study reports novel findings showing that the early and prolonged exposure to a HFD leads to a significant impairment in the renal, uterine and radial arteries hemodynamic changes associated to gestation.
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11
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Downs KM, Rodriguez AM. The mouse fetal-placental arterial connection: A paradigm involving the primitive streak and visceral endoderm with implications for human development. WILEY INTERDISCIPLINARY REVIEWS-DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY 2019; 9:e362. [PMID: 31622045 DOI: 10.1002/wdev.362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2018] [Revised: 08/02/2019] [Accepted: 08/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
In Placentalia, the fetus depends upon an organized vascular connection with its mother for survival and development. Yet, this connection was, until recently, obscure. Here, we summarize how two unrelated tissues, the primitive streak, or body axis, and extraembryonic visceral endoderm collaborate to create and organize the fetal-placental arterial connection in the mouse gastrula. The primitive streak reaches into the extraembryonic space, where it marks the site of arterial union and creates a progenitor cell pool. Through contact with the streak, associated visceral endoderm undergoes an epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, contributing extraembryonic mesoderm to the placental arterial vasculature, and to the allantois, or pre-umbilical tissue. In addition, visceral endoderm bifurcates into the allantois where, with the primitive streak, it organizes the nascent umbilical artery and promotes allantoic elongation to the chorion, the site of fetal-maternal exchange. Brachyury mediates streak extension and vascular patterning, while Hedgehog is involved in visceral endoderm's conversion to mesoderm. A unique CASPASE-3-positive cell separates streak- and non-streak-associated domains in visceral endoderm. Based on these new insights at the posterior embryonic-extraembryonic interface, we conclude by asking whether so-called primordial germ cells are truly antecedents to the germ line that segregate within the allantois, or whether they are placental progenitor cells. Incorporating these new working hypotheses into mutational analyses in which the placentae are affected will aid understanding a spectrum of disorders, including orphan diseases, which often include abnormalities of the umbilical cord, yolk sac, and hindgut, whose developmental relationship to each other has, until now, been poorly understood. This article is categorized under: Birth Defects > Associated with Preimplantation and Gastrulation Early Embryonic Development > Gastrulation and Neurulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen M Downs
- Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology, University of Wisconsin Madison School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin
| | - Adriana M Rodriguez
- Department of Cell and Regenerative Biology, University of Wisconsin Madison School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, Wisconsin
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12
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De Clercq K, Persoons E, Napso T, Luyten C, Parac-Vogt TN, Sferruzzi-Perri AN, Kerckhofs G, Vriens J. High-resolution contrast-enhanced microCT reveals the true three-dimensional morphology of the murine placenta. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2019; 116:13927-13936. [PMID: 31249139 PMCID: PMC6683600 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1902688116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic engineering of the mouse genome identified many genes that are essential for embryogenesis. Remarkably, the prevalence of concomitant placental defects in embryonic lethal mutants is highly underestimated and indicates the importance of detailed placental analysis when phenotyping new individual gene knockouts. Here we introduce high-resolution contrast-enhanced microfocus computed tomography (CE-CT) as a nondestructive, high-throughput technique to evaluate the 3D placental morphology. Using a contrast agent, zirconium-substituted Keggin polyoxometalate (Zr-POM), the soft tissue of the placenta (i.e., different layers and cell types and its vasculature) was imaged with a resolution of 3.5 µm voxel size. This approach allowed us to visualize and study early and late stages of placental development. Moreover, CE-CT provides a method to precisely quantify placental parameters (i.e., volumes, volume fraction, ratio of different placental layers, and volumes of specific cell populations) that are crucial for statistical comparison studies. The CE-CT assessment of the 3D morphology of the placentas was validated (i) by comparison with standard histological studies; (ii) by evaluating placentas from 2 different mouse strains, 129S6 and C57BL/6J mice; and (iii) by confirming the placental phenotype of mice lacking phosphoinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)-p110α. Finally, the Zr-POM-based CE-CT allowed for inspection of the vasculature structure in the entire placenta, as well as detecting placental defects in pathologies characterized by embryonic resorption and placental fusion. Taken together, Zr-POM-based CE-CT offers a quantitative 3D methodology to investigate placental development or pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrien De Clercq
- Laboratory of Endometrium, Endometriosis & Reproductive Medicine, Department of Development and Regeneration, Gynecology-Pediatrics and Urology Research Group (G-PURE), Katholieke Universiteit (KU) Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Ion Channel Research, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Vlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie (VIB) Centre for Brain & Disease Research, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Eleonora Persoons
- Laboratory of Endometrium, Endometriosis & Reproductive Medicine, Department of Development and Regeneration, Gynecology-Pediatrics and Urology Research Group (G-PURE), Katholieke Universiteit (KU) Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Laboratory of Ion Channel Research, Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Vlaams Instituut voor Biotechnologie (VIB) Centre for Brain & Disease Research, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Tina Napso
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, United Kingdom
| | - Catherine Luyten
- Laboratory of Endometrium, Endometriosis & Reproductive Medicine, Department of Development and Regeneration, Gynecology-Pediatrics and Urology Research Group (G-PURE), Katholieke Universiteit (KU) Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Tatjana N Parac-Vogt
- Molecular Design and Synthesis, Department of Chemistry, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Amanda N Sferruzzi-Perri
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 3EG, United Kingdom
| | - Greet Kerckhofs
- Biomechanics Laboratory, Institute of Mechanics, Materials, and Civil Engineering, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1348 Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
- Prometheus, Division of Skeletal Tissue Engineering, KU Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Joris Vriens
- Laboratory of Endometrium, Endometriosis & Reproductive Medicine, Department of Development and Regeneration, Gynecology-Pediatrics and Urology Research Group (G-PURE), Katholieke Universiteit (KU) Leuven, 3000 Leuven, Belgium;
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13
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Akkuş T, Erdoğan G. Ultrasonographic evaluation of feto-placental tissues at different intrauterine locations in rabbit. Theriogenology 2019; 138:16-23. [PMID: 31280181 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.06.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2019] [Revised: 06/25/2019] [Accepted: 06/25/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The main purpose of examining multiparous species with real-time ultrasonography is to determine the gestational age and make various fetal measurements for early diagnosis of growth anomalies and sibling mismatches. This study investigated changes in fetometric measurements, obstetric Doppler indices and placental image analysis results based on gestational age and fetal location in fetuses located cranially and caudally between 16 and 24 days gestation in 22 healthy pregnant New Zealand rabbits. The first study group consisted of fetuses positioned at the cranial end (n = 22) while the second group consisted of fetuses positioned at the caudal end (n = 22) in each pregnancy. Fetal biparietal head diameter (BPD) and trunk diameter (TD) were measured, and mean grayness values (MGV) were determined from placental image analysis of each fetus. Using Doppler USG, the pulsatile (PI) and resistance (RI) indices of the uterine artery (UtA) and umbilical artery (UmA) were recorded. By the end of the study, BPD and TD values for cranial and caudal fetuses had significantly increased with gestational age (P < 0.001). The MGV values of caudal fetuses were significantly higher (except for the 16th day) (P < 0.05). The UtA PI value of the caudal fetuses was significantly higher (except for the 18th day) (P < 0.01). The UtA RI values of caudal fetuses were significantly higher than cranial ones on the 16 and 24th days (P < 0.05). The PI of the UmA increased until the 20th day before decreasing significantly in both study groups (P < 0.001). The UmA RI value decreased according to the gestational age in both groups (P < 0.001). It was significantly higher in the caudal fetuses on the 20th day (P < 0.05). The somatic rate of all fetuses peaked at the end of the second trimester, although caudal fetuses had higher fetometric values, and this location difference also affected placental echotexture. In both vessels of caudal fetuses, pulsatility and resistance values were higher. The 20th day of pregnancy was a threshold for the Doppler exam results. In conclusion, growth and metabolic status of fetuses located in different uterine locations in healthy pregnant New Zealand rabbits vary. Based on the these growth curves and hemodynamic data, more comprehensive studies of intrauterine life may be possible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuğra Akkuş
- Harran University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sanliurfa, Turkey.
| | - Güneş Erdoğan
- Aydin Adnan Menderes University, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aydin, Turkey
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14
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Pemathilaka RL, Caplin JD, Aykar SS, Montazami R, Hashemi NN. Placenta-on-a-Chip: In Vitro Study of Caffeine Transport across Placental Barrier Using Liquid Chromatography Mass Spectrometry. GLOBAL CHALLENGES (HOBOKEN, NJ) 2019; 3:1800112. [PMID: 31565368 PMCID: PMC6436596 DOI: 10.1002/gch2.201800112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Revised: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Due to the particular structure and functionality of the placenta, most current human placenta drug testing methods are limited to animal models, conventional cell testing, and cohort/controlled testing. Previous studies have produced inconsistent results due to physiological differences between humans and animals and limited availability of human and/or animal models for controlled testing. To overcome these challenges, a placenta-on-a-chip system is developed for studying the exchange of substances to and from the placenta. Caffeine transport across the placental barrier is studied because caffeine is a xenobiotic widely consumed on a daily basis. Since a fetus does not carry the enzymes that inactivate caffeine, when it crosses a placental barrier, high caffeine intake may harm the fetus, so it is important to quantify the rate of caffeine transport across the placenta. In this study, a caffeine concentration of 0.25 mg mL-1 is introduced into the maternal channel, and the resulting changes are observed over a span of 7.5 h. A steady caffeine concentration of 0.1513 mg mL-1 is reached on the maternal side after 6.5 h, and a 0.0033 mg mL-1 concentration on the fetal side is achieved after 5 h.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jeremy D. Caplin
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringIowa State UniversityAmesIA50011USA
- Petit Institute for Bioengineering and BioscienceGeorgia Institute of TechnologyAtlantaGA30332USA
| | - Saurabh S. Aykar
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringIowa State UniversityAmesIA50011USA
| | - Reza Montazami
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringIowa State UniversityAmesIA50011USA
| | - Nicole N. Hashemi
- Department of Mechanical EngineeringIowa State UniversityAmesIA50011USA
- Department of Biomedical SciencesIowa State UniversityAmesIA50011USA
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15
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Moreau JLM, Kesteven S, Martin EMMA, Lau KS, Yam MX, O'Reilly VC, Del Monte-Nieto G, Baldini A, Feneley MP, Moon AM, Harvey RP, Sparrow DB, Chapman G, Dunwoodie SL. Gene-environment interaction impacts on heart development and embryo survival. Development 2019; 146:146/4/dev172957. [PMID: 30787001 DOI: 10.1242/dev.172957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2018] [Accepted: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the most common type of birth defect. In recent years, research has focussed on identifying the genetic causes of CHD. However, only a minority of CHD cases can be attributed to single gene mutations. In addition, studies have identified different environmental stressors that promote CHD, but the additive effect of genetic susceptibility and environmental factors is poorly understood. In this context, we have investigated the effects of short-term gestational hypoxia on mouse embryos genetically predisposed to heart defects. Exposure of mouse embryos heterozygous for Tbx1 or Fgfr1/Fgfr2 to hypoxia in utero increased the incidence and severity of heart defects while Nkx2-5+/- embryos died within 2 days of hypoxic exposure. We identified the molecular consequences of the interaction between Nkx2-5 and short-term gestational hypoxia, which suggest that reduced Nkx2-5 expression and a prolonged hypoxia-inducible factor 1α response together precipitate embryo death. Our study provides insight into the causes of embryo loss and variable penetrance of monogenic CHD, and raises the possibility that cases of foetal death and CHD in humans could be caused by similar gene-environment interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie L M Moreau
- Developmental and Stem Cell Biology Division, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, New South Wales 2010, Australia.,St Vincent's Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales 2010, Australia
| | - Scott Kesteven
- Cardiac Physiology and Transplantation Division, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, New South Wales 2010, Australia
| | - Ella M M A Martin
- Developmental and Stem Cell Biology Division, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, New South Wales 2010, Australia
| | - Kin S Lau
- Developmental and Stem Cell Biology Division, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, New South Wales 2010, Australia
| | - Michelle X Yam
- Developmental and Stem Cell Biology Division, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, New South Wales 2010, Australia
| | - Victoria C O'Reilly
- Developmental and Stem Cell Biology Division, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, New South Wales 2010, Australia
| | - Gonzalo Del Monte-Nieto
- Developmental and Stem Cell Biology Division, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, New South Wales 2010, Australia.,St Vincent's Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales 2010, Australia
| | - Antonio Baldini
- Dept. of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University Federico II, Naples, and Institute of Genetics and Biophysics, CNR, Via Pietro Castellino 111, 80131 Naples, Italy
| | - Michael P Feneley
- St Vincent's Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales 2010, Australia.,Cardiac Physiology and Transplantation Division, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, New South Wales 2010, Australia.,Cardiology Department, St. Vincent's Hospital, Darlinghurst, New South Wales 2010, Australia
| | - Anne M Moon
- Department of Molecular and Functional Genomics, Weis Center for Research, Geisinger Clinic, Danville, PA 17822, USA
| | - Richard P Harvey
- Developmental and Stem Cell Biology Division, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, New South Wales 2010, Australia.,St Vincent's Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales 2010, Australia.,School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Science, University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales 2033, Australia
| | - Duncan B Sparrow
- Developmental and Stem Cell Biology Division, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, New South Wales 2010, Australia.,Department of Physiology, Anatomy and Genetics, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 3PT, UK
| | - Gavin Chapman
- Developmental and Stem Cell Biology Division, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, New South Wales 2010, Australia.,St Vincent's Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales 2010, Australia
| | - Sally L Dunwoodie
- Developmental and Stem Cell Biology Division, Victor Chang Cardiac Research Institute, Darlinghurst, New South Wales 2010, Australia .,St Vincent's Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales 2010, Australia.,School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Science, University of New South Wales, Kensington, New South Wales 2033, Australia
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16
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Jagger BW, Miner JJ, Cao B, Arora N, Smith AM, Kovacs A, Mysorekar IU, Coyne CB, Diamond MS. Gestational Stage and IFN-λ Signaling Regulate ZIKV Infection In Utero. Cell Host Microbe 2018; 22:366-376.e3. [PMID: 28910635 DOI: 10.1016/j.chom.2017.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 116] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2017] [Revised: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 08/21/2017] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Although Zika virus (ZIKV)-induced congenital disease occurs more frequently during early stages of pregnancy, its basis remains undefined. Using established type I interferon (IFN)-deficient mouse models of ZIKV transmission in utero, we found that the placenta and fetus were more susceptible to ZIKV infection at earlier gestational stages. Whereas ZIKV infection at embryonic day 6 (E6) resulted in placental insufficiency and fetal demise, infections at midstage (E9) resulted in reduced cranial dimensions, and infection later in pregnancy (E12) caused no apparent fetal disease. In addition, we found that fetuses lacking type III IFN-λ signaling had increased ZIKV replication in the placenta and fetus when infected at E12, and reciprocally, treatment of pregnant mice with IFN-λ2 reduced ZIKV infection. IFN-λ treatment analogously diminished ZIKV infection in human midgestation fetal- and maternal-derived tissue explants. Our data establish a model of gestational stage dependence of ZIKV pathogenesis and IFN-λ-mediated immunity at the maternal-fetal interface.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brett W Jagger
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Jonathan J Miner
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Bin Cao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Nitin Arora
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA; Center for Microbial Pathogenesis, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
| | - Amber M Smith
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Attila Kovacs
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Center for Cardiovascular Research, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Indira U Mysorekar
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA
| | - Carolyn B Coyne
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA; Center for Microbial Pathogenesis, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, Pittsburgh, PA 15224, USA
| | - Michael S Diamond
- Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Department of Molecular Microbiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; Andrew M. and Jane M. Bursky Center for Human Immunology and Immunotherapy Programs, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
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17
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Preeclampsia induced by STOX1 overexpression in mice induces intrauterine growth restriction, abnormal ultrasonography and BOLD MRI signatures. J Hypertens 2018; 36:1399-1406. [DOI: 10.1097/hjh.0000000000001695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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18
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Mirbod P. Analytical model of the feto-placental vascular system: consideration of placental oxygen transport. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2018; 5:180219. [PMID: 29765697 PMCID: PMC5936962 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.180219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2018] [Accepted: 03/13/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
The placenta is a transient vascular organ that enables nutrients and blood gases to be exchanged between fetal and maternal circulations. Herein, the structure and oxygen diffusion across the trophoblast membrane between the fetal and maternal red blood cells in the feto-placental vasculature system in both human and mouse placentas are presented together as a functional unit. Previous models have claimed that the most efficient fetal blood flow relies upon structures containing a number of 'conductive' symmetrical branches, offering a path of minimal resistance that maximizes blood flow to the terminal villi, where oxygen diffusion occurs. However, most of these models have disregarded the actual descriptions of the exchange at the level of the intermediate and terminal villi. We are proposing a 'mixed model' whereby both 'conductive' and 'terminal' villi are presumed to be present at the end of single (in human) or multiple (in mouse) pregnancies. We predict an optimal number of 18 and 22 bifurcation levels in the human and the mouse placentas, respectively. Wherever possible, we have compared our model's predictions with experimental results reported in the literature and found close agreement between them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parisa Mirbod
- Department of Mechanical and Aeronautical Engineering, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY, USA
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19
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Lorca RA, Wakle‐Prabagaran M, Freeman WE, Pillai MK, England SK. The large-conductance voltage- and Ca 2+ -activated K + channel and its γ1-subunit modulate mouse uterine artery function during pregnancy. J Physiol 2018; 596:1019-1033. [PMID: 29319186 PMCID: PMC5851882 DOI: 10.1113/jp274524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2017] [Accepted: 01/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS The uterine artery (UA) markedly vasodilates during pregnancy to direct blood flow to the developing fetus. Inadequate UA vasodilatation leads to intrauterine growth restriction and fetal death. The large-conductance voltage- and Ca2+ -activated K+ (BKCa ) channel promotes UA vasodilatation during pregnancy. We report that BKCa channel activation increases the UA diameter at late pregnancy stages in mice. Additionally, a BKCa channel auxiliary subunit, γ1, participates in this process by increasing channel activation and inducing UA vasodilatation at late pregnancy stages. Our results highlight the importance of the BKCa channel and its γ1-subunit for UA functional changes during pregnancy. ABSTRACT Insufficient vasodilatation of the uterine artery (UA) during pregnancy leads to poor utero-placental perfusion, contributing to intrauterine growth restriction and fetal loss. Activity of the large-conductance Ca2+ -activated K+ (BKCa ) channel increases in the UA during pregnancy, and its inhibition reduces uterine blood flow, highlighting a role of this channel in UA adaptation to pregnancy. The auxiliary γ1-subunit increases BKCa activation in vascular smooth muscle, but its role in pregnancy-associated UA remodelling is unknown. We explored whether the BKCa and its γ1-subunit contribute to UA remodelling during pregnancy. Doppler imaging revealed that, compared to UAs from wild-type (WT) mice, UAs from BKCa knockout (BKCa-/- ) mice had lower resistance at pregnancy day 14 (P14) but not at P18. Lumen diameters were twofold larger in pressurized UAs from P18 WT mice than in those from non-pregnant mice, but this difference was not seen in UAs from BKCa-/- mice. UAs from pregnant WT mice constricted 20-50% in response to the BKCa blocker iberiotoxin (IbTX), whereas UAs from non-pregnant WT mice only constricted 15%. Patch-clamp analysis of WT UA smooth muscle cells confirmed that BKCa activity increased over pregnancy, showing three distinct voltage sensitivities. The γ1-subunit transcript increased 7- to 10-fold during pregnancy. Furthermore, γ1-subunit knockdown reduced IbTX sensitivity in UAs from pregnant mice, whereas γ1-subunit overexpression increased IbTX sensitivity in UAs from non-pregnant mice. Finally, at P18, γ1-knockout (γ1-/- ) mice had smaller UA diameters than WT mice, and IbTX-mediated vasoconstriction was prevented in UAs from γ1-/- mice. Our results suggest that the γ1-subunit increases BKCa activation in UAs during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramón A. Lorca
- Center for Reproductive Health SciencesDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyWashington University in St Louis School of MedicineSt LouisMO63110USA
| | - Monali Wakle‐Prabagaran
- Center for Reproductive Health SciencesDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyWashington University in St Louis School of MedicineSt LouisMO63110USA
| | - William E. Freeman
- Center for Reproductive Health SciencesDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyWashington University in St Louis School of MedicineSt LouisMO63110USA
| | - Meghan K. Pillai
- Center for Reproductive Health SciencesDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyWashington University in St Louis School of MedicineSt LouisMO63110USA
| | - Sarah K. England
- Center for Reproductive Health SciencesDepartment of Obstetrics and GynecologyWashington University in St Louis School of MedicineSt LouisMO63110USA
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Gestational ultrasonography and Dopplerfluxometry in capuchin monkeys (Sapajus apella) zoometric. Theriogenology 2018; 108:63-73. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2017.11.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2017] [Revised: 11/07/2017] [Accepted: 11/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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21
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Yolk sac macrophage progenitors traffic to the embryo during defined stages of development. Nat Commun 2018; 9:75. [PMID: 29311541 PMCID: PMC5758709 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-017-02492-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 155] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2017] [Accepted: 12/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Tissue macrophages in many adult organs originate from yolk sac (YS) progenitors, which invade the developing embryo and persist by means of local self-renewal. However, the route and characteristics of YS macrophage trafficking during embryogenesis are incompletely understood. Here we show the early migration dynamics of YS-derived macrophage progenitors in vivo using fate mapping and intravital microscopy. From embryonic day 8.5 (E8.5) CX3CR1+ pre-macrophages are present in the mouse YS where they rapidly proliferate and gain access to the bloodstream to migrate towards the embryo. Trafficking of pre-macrophages and their progenitors from the YS to tissues peaks around E10.5, dramatically decreases towards E12.5 and is no longer evident from E14.5 onwards. Thus, YS progenitors use the vascular system during a restricted time window of embryogenesis to invade the growing fetus. These findings close an important gap in our understanding of the development of the innate immune system.
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22
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Wang T, Oltra-Rodríguez L, García-Carrillo N, Nieto A, Cao Y, Sánchez-Ferrer ML. Ultrasonography in Experimental Reproductive Investigations on Rats. J Vis Exp 2017. [PMID: 29286461 DOI: 10.3791/56038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
With the development of assisted reproductive technology and the ethical limitations of research on humans, rat animal models have been widely used in reproductive medicine. In the past, the study of reproductive system development in rodents has been based on one-time histological examination of excised tissues. Recently, with the development of high-resolution transabdominal ultrasound, high-quality sonography can now be performed to evaluate the reproductive organs of rats, allowing a new method for studying the reproductive system. Images were obtained using a high-resolution ultrasonographic system. Gynecological ultrasonography was performed on 28 eight-week-old non-pregnant rats and 5 pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats. We describe how to recognize organs of the reproductive system and associated structures in typical views during different phases of the estrus cycle. Color flow Doppler was used to measure uterine artery blood flow and evaluate uterine blood flow pattern changes during different stages of pregnancy. We have demonstrated that ultrasound exploration is a useful method for evaluating changes in internal reproductive organs. Its use raises the possibility of conducting additional experiments, including medical or surgical procedures, and provides the ability to monitor sonographic changes to internal organs without sacrificing animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianjuang Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University; Institute of Reproductive Genetics, Anhui Medical University
| | - Lidia Oltra-Rodríguez
- Centro Experimental en Investigaciones Biomédica (CEIB), Campus Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Murcia
| | - Nuria García-Carrillo
- Centro Experimental en Investigaciones Biomédica (CEIB), Campus Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Murcia
| | - Anibal Nieto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 'Virgen de la Arrixaca' University Clinical Hospital; Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia, IMIB-Arrixaca
| | - Yunxia Cao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University; Institute of Reproductive Genetics, Anhui Medical University; Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs
| | - María L Sánchez-Ferrer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 'Virgen de la Arrixaca' University Clinical Hospital; Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia, IMIB-Arrixaca;
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Cahill LS, Rennie MY, Hoggarth J, Yu LX, Rahman A, Kingdom JC, Seed M, Macgowan CK, Sled JG. Feto- and utero-placental vascular adaptations to chronic maternal hypoxia in the mouse. J Physiol 2017; 596:3285-3297. [PMID: 28861917 DOI: 10.1113/jp274845] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2017] [Accepted: 08/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS Chronic fetal hypoxia is one of the most common complications of pregnancy and is known to cause fetal growth restriction. The structural adaptations of the placental vasculature responsible for growth restriction with chronic hypoxia are not well elucidated. Using a mouse model of chronic maternal hypoxia in combination with micro-computed tomography and scanning electron microscopy, we found several placental adaptations that were beneficial to fetal growth including capillary expansion, thinning of the interhaemal membrane and increased radial artery diameters, resulting in a large drop in total utero-placental vascular resistance. One of the mechanisms used to achieve the rapid increase in capillaries was intussusceptive angiogenesis, a strategy used in human placental development to form terminal gas-exchanging villi. These results contribute to our understanding of the structural mechanisms of the placental vasculature responsible for fetal growth restriction and provide a baseline for understanding adaptive physiological responses of the placenta to chronic hypoxia. ABSTRACT The fetus and the placenta in eutherian mammals have a unique set of compensatory mechanisms to respond to several pregnancy complications including chronic maternal hypoxia. This study examined the structural adaptations of the feto- and utero-placental vasculature in an experimental mouse model of chronic maternal hypoxia (11% O2 from embryonic day (E) 14.5-E17.5). While placental weights were unaffected by exposure to chronic hypoxia, using micro-computed tomography, we found a 44% decrease in the absolute feto-placental arterial vascular volume and a 30% decrease in total vessel segments in the chronic hypoxia group compared to control group. Scanning electron microscopy imaging showed significant expansion of the capillary network; consequently, the interhaemal membrane was 11% thinner to facilitate maternal-fetal exchange in the chronic hypoxia placentas. One of the mechanisms for the rapid capillary expansion was intussusceptive angiogenesis. Analysis of the utero-placental arterial tree showed significant increases (24%) in the diameter of the radial arteries, resulting in a decrease in the total utero-placental resistance by 2.6-fold in the mice exposed to chronic maternal hypoxia. Together these adaptations acted to preserve placental weight whereas fetal weight was decreased.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay S Cahill
- Mouse Imaging Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Monique Y Rennie
- Mouse Imaging Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Johnathan Hoggarth
- Mouse Imaging Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lisa X Yu
- Mouse Imaging Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anum Rahman
- Mouse Imaging Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - John C Kingdom
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mike Seed
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Paediatrics, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christopher K Macgowan
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Translational Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - John G Sled
- Mouse Imaging Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Translational Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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24
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Rennie MY, Cahill LS, Adamson SL, Sled JG. Arterio-venous fetoplacental vascular geometry and hemodynamics in the mouse placenta. Placenta 2017; 58:46-51. [PMID: 28962695 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2017.08.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2017] [Revised: 08/08/2017] [Accepted: 08/11/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The fetoplacental vasculature network is essential for the exchange of nutrients, gases and wastes with the maternal circulation and for normal fetal development. The present study quantitatively compares arterial and venous morphological and functional differences in the mouse fetoplacental vascular network. METHODS High resolution X-ray micro-computed tomography was used to visualize the 3D geometry of the arterial and venous fetoplacental vasculature in embryonic day 15.5 CD-1 mice (n = 5). Automated image analysis was used to measure the vascular geometry of the approximately 4100 arterial segments and 3200 venous segments per specimen to simulate blood flow through these networks. RESULTS Both the arterial and venous trees demonstrated a hierarchical branching structure with 8 or 9 (arterial) or 8 (venous) orders. The venous tree was smaller in volume and overall dimensions than the arterial tree. Venous vessel diameters increased more rapidly than arteries with each successive order, leading to lower overall resistance, although the umbilical vein was notably smaller and of higher resistance than these scaling relationships would predict. Simulation of blood flow for these vascular networks showed that 57% of total resistance resides in the umbilical artery and arterial tree, 17% in the capillary bed, and 26% in the venous tree and umbilical vein. DISCUSSION A detailed examination of the mouse fetoplacental arterial and venous tree revealed features, such as the distribution of resistance and the dimension of the venous tree, that were both morphologically distinct from other vascular beds and that appeared adapted to the specialized requirements of sustaining a fetus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monique Y Rennie
- Mouse Imaging Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lindsay S Cahill
- Mouse Imaging Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - S Lee Adamson
- Translational Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario Canada
| | - John G Sled
- Mouse Imaging Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Translational Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario Canada; Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
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25
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Abstract
Epidemiological evidence links an individual's susceptibility to chronic disease in adult life to events during their intrauterine phase of development. Biologically this should not be unexpected, for organ systems are at their most plastic when progenitor cells are proliferating and differentiating. Influences operating at this time can permanently affect their structure and functional capacity, and the activity of enzyme systems and endocrine axes. It is now appreciated that such effects lay the foundations for a diverse array of diseases that become manifest many years later, often in response to secondary environmental stressors. Fetal development is underpinned by the placenta, the organ that forms the interface between the fetus and its mother. All nutrients and oxygen reaching the fetus must pass through this organ. The placenta also has major endocrine functions, orchestrating maternal adaptations to pregnancy and mobilizing resources for fetal use. In addition, it acts as a selective barrier, creating a protective milieu by minimizing exposure of the fetus to maternal hormones, such as glucocorticoids, xenobiotics, pathogens, and parasites. The placenta shows a remarkable capacity to adapt to adverse environmental cues and lessen their impact on the fetus. However, if placental function is impaired, or its capacity to adapt is exceeded, then fetal development may be compromised. Here, we explore the complex relationships between the placental phenotype and developmental programming of chronic disease in the offspring. Ensuring optimal placentation offers a new approach to the prevention of disorders such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and obesity, which are reaching epidemic proportions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graham J Burton
- Centre for Trophoblast Research and Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom; and Department of Medicine, Knight Cardiovascular Institute, and Moore Institute for Nutrition and Wellness, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Abigail L Fowden
- Centre for Trophoblast Research and Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom; and Department of Medicine, Knight Cardiovascular Institute, and Moore Institute for Nutrition and Wellness, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Kent L Thornburg
- Centre for Trophoblast Research and Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom; and Department of Medicine, Knight Cardiovascular Institute, and Moore Institute for Nutrition and Wellness, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
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26
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Gaynor LM, Colucci F. Uterine Natural Killer Cells: Functional Distinctions and Influence on Pregnancy in Humans and Mice. Front Immunol 2017; 8:467. [PMID: 28484462 PMCID: PMC5402472 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.00467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2017] [Accepted: 04/05/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Our understanding of development and function of natural killer (NK) cells has progressed significantly in recent years. However, exactly how uterine NK (uNK) cells develop and function is still unclear. To help investigators that are beginning to study tissue NK cells, we summarize in this review our current knowledge of the development and function of uNK cells, and what is yet to be elucidated. We compare and contrast the biology of human and mouse uNK cells in the broader context of the biology of innate lymphoid cells and with reference to peripheral NK cells. We also review how uNK cells may regulate trophoblast invasion and uterine spiral arterial remodeling in human and murine pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise M Gaynor
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Cambridge, UK
| | - Francesco Colucci
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National Institute for Health Research Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, University of Cambridge School of Clinical Medicine, Cambridge, UK
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27
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Viscosity and haemodynamics in a late gestation rat feto-placental arterial network. Biomech Model Mechanobiol 2017; 16:1361-1372. [PMID: 28258413 DOI: 10.1007/s10237-017-0892-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2016] [Accepted: 02/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The placenta is a transient organ which develops during pregnancy to provide haemotrophic support for healthy fetal growth and development. Fundamental to its function is the healthy development of vascular trees in the feto-placental arterial network. Despite the strong association of haemodynamics with vascular remodelling mechanisms, there is a lack of computational haemodynamic data that may improve our understanding of feto-placental physiology. The aim of this work was to create a comprehensive 3D computational fluid dynamics model of a substructure of the rat feto-placental arterial network and investigate the influence of viscosity on wall shear stress (WSS). Late gestation rat feto-placental arteries were perfused with radiopaque Microfil and scanned via micro-computed tomography to capture the feto-placental arterial geometry in 3D. A detailed description of rat fetal blood viscosity parameters was developed, and three different approaches to feto-placental haemodynamics were simulated in 3D using the finite volume method: Newtonian model, non-Newtonian Carreau-Yasuda model and Fåhræus-Lindqvist effect model. Significant variability in WSS was observed between different viscosity models. The physiologically-realistic simulations using the Fåhræus-Lindqvist effect and rat fetal blood estimates of viscosity revealed detailed patterns of WSS throughout the arterial network. We found WSS gradients at bifurcation regions, which may contribute to vessel enlargement, and sprouting and pruning during angiogenesis. This simulation of feto-placental haemodynamics shows the heterogeneous WSS distribution throughout the network and demonstrates the ability to determine physiologically-relevant WSS magnitudes, patterns and gradients. This model will help advance our understanding of vascular physiology and remodelling in the feto-placental network.
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Albaghdadi AJH, Hewitt MA, Putos SM, Wells M, Ozolinš TRS, Kan FWK. Tacrolimus in the prevention of adverse pregnancy outcomes and diabetes-associated embryopathies in obese and diabetic mice. J Transl Med 2017; 15:32. [PMID: 28193233 PMCID: PMC5307666 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-017-1137-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2016] [Accepted: 02/03/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND T2DM is a high-risk pregnancy with adverse fetal and maternal outcomes including repeated miscarriages and fetal malformations. Despite the established association between placental insufficiency and poor maternal Th1-adaptability to the development of pregnancy complications in T2DM, there have been no established data to assess benefits of pre-pregnancy immunosuppression relative to gestational outcomes in T2DM. We hypothesized that pre-pregnancy macrolide immune suppression can re-establish normal placental development and uterine vascular adaptation in a mouse model of obesity-associated T2DM. METHODS Fetal live birth rate, postnatal variability, mid-gestational uterine and umbilical flow dynamics and certain morphological features of spiral artery modification were examined in the New Zealand Obese (NONcNZO10/Ltj) female mice (n = 56) weaned to ages of 32 weeks on a 60% calories/g high-fat diet (also referred to as HFD-dNONcNZO), and which received either tacrolimus (0.1 mg/kg s.c. q2d) , its vehicle (castor oil and ethanol) or metformin (in drinking water 200 mg/dL p.o. ad libitum). HFD-BALBc-Rag2/IL2-gc female mice (n = 24) were used as HFD-immunodeficient controls. RESULTS Treatment of the HFD-dNONcNZO female mice with tacrolimus improved live birth rates and postnatal viability scores (p < 0.01), normalized OGTT (p < 0.001), inhibited fetal malformation rates, restored morphology of spiral arterial modification; and improved uterine arterial and umbilical blood flow (p < 0.01). Placental production of TNFαand IL16 in the tacrolimus-treated HFD-dNONcNZO dams were restored to non-diabetic levels and the treatment resulted in the inhibition of aberrant monocyte/macrophage activation during pregnancy in the HFD-dNONcNZO dams. CONCLUSIONS Our present data suggest a casual association between chronic maternal overnutrition and aberrancy in the maternal Th1-immune maladaptation to pregnancy and defective spiral artery modification, placental insufficiency and adverse fetal outcomes in the T2DM subjects. Further safety studies into the use of tacrolimus in the pre-pregnancy glycemic control may be beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad J. H. Albaghdadi
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L3N6 Canada
| | - Melanie A. Hewitt
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L3N6 Canada
| | - Samantha M. Putos
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L3N6 Canada
| | - Michael Wells
- PARTEQ Innovations, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L 0E9 Canada
| | - Terence R. S. Ozolinš
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L3N6 Canada
| | - Frederick W. K. Kan
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON K7L3N6 Canada
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Beltrame RT, Covre C, Littig LB, Martins ADB, Quirino CR, Junior AB, da Costa RLD. Transrectal Doppler sonography of uterine blood flow in ewes during pregnancy. Theriogenology 2016; 91:55-61. [PMID: 28215686 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.12.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2016] [Revised: 12/12/2016] [Accepted: 12/14/2016] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
In sheep, there is a lack of information on the behaviour of hemodynamic indices and parameters of blood flow velocity of the uterine artery during pregnancy, making it impossible to determine the real meaning of the values found and their probable relevance in normal physiological or pathological states. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the blood flow velocity parameters and hemodynamic indices of the uterine artery in ewes (18) during pregnancy (33). Based on non-invasive colour Doppler sonography, we evaluated the peak systolic velocity (PS), end diastolic velocity (ED), time-averaged maximum and minimum velocity in a cardiac cycle (TAMAX and TAMEAN), pulsatility index (PI), resistance index (RI), systolic/diastolic ratio (S/D), heart rate (HR), arterial diameter (AD) and the blood flow volume (BFV). Examinations started on day 28 and continued at two-week intervals until parturition. The Doppler parameters and the diameter of the uterine artery underwent significant changes during pregnancy. In the evaluated animals, indices related to resistance of the uterine artery, namely the impedance of blood flow, decreased throughout the initial, middle and late stages of gestation (PI: 1.15, 1.04, 0.97; RI: 0.61, 0.59, 0.57; S/D: 2.68, 2.52, 2.39, respectively) (p < 0.05). In contrast, the contents related to higher uterine irrigation increased during gestation (PS, ED, TAMAX, TAMEAN, HR, AD and BFV) (p < 0.05). No differences were found between the means of the variables in relation to the right and left uterine arteries and between single and multiple pregnancies in the hemodynamic indices. The present study is the first to demonstrate changes in uterine hemodynamics throughout pregnancy in sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renato Travassos Beltrame
- Centro Universitário do Espírito Santo (UNESC), Avenida Fioravante Rossi, 2930, Colatina, ES, 29703-900, Brazil.
| | - Carolina Covre
- Centro Universitário do Espírito Santo (UNESC), Avenida Fioravante Rossi, 2930, Colatina, ES, 29703-900, Brazil
| | - Lucas Buss Littig
- Centro Universitário do Espírito Santo (UNESC), Avenida Fioravante Rossi, 2930, Colatina, ES, 29703-900, Brazil
| | - Amanda de Barros Martins
- Centro Universitário do Espírito Santo (UNESC), Avenida Fioravante Rossi, 2930, Colatina, ES, 29703-900, Brazil
| | - Celia Raquel Quirino
- Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense (UENF), Av. Alberto Lamego, 2000, Parque California, Campos dos Goitacazes, RJ, 28035-200, Brazil
| | - Aylton Bartholazzi Junior
- Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense (UENF), Av. Alberto Lamego, 2000, Parque California, Campos dos Goitacazes, RJ, 28035-200, Brazil
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Carter A. IFPA Senior Award Lecture: Mammalian fetal membranes. Placenta 2016; 48 Suppl 1:S21-S30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2015.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2015] [Revised: 10/09/2015] [Accepted: 10/19/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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31
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Aljunaidy MM, Morton JS, Cooke CL, Davidge ST. Maternal vascular responses to hypoxia in a rat model of intrauterine growth restriction. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2016; 311:R1068-R1075. [PMID: 27760732 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00119.2016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2016] [Revised: 10/06/2016] [Accepted: 10/12/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a common pregnancy complication and is a leading cause of fetal morbidity and mortality. Placental hypoxia contributes to adverse fetal consequences, such as IUGR. Exposing pregnant rats to hypoxia can lead to IUGR; however, assessment of maternal vascular function in a rat model of hypoxia, and the mechanisms that may contribute to adverse pregnancy outcomes, has not been extensively studied. We hypothesized that exposing pregnant rats to hypoxia will affect maternal systemic vascular function and increase the uterine artery resistance index (RI), which will be associated with IUGR. To test this hypothesis, pregnant rats were kept in normoxia (21% O2) or hypoxia (11% O2) from gestational day (GD) 6 to 20 Maternal blood pressure, uteroplacental resistance index (RI) (ultrasound biomicroscopy), and vascular function (wire myography) were assessed in uterine and mesenteric arteries. Fetal weight was significantly reduced (P < 0.001), while maternal blood pressure was increased (P < 0.05) in rats exposed to hypoxia. Maternal vascular function was also affected after exposure to hypoxia, including impaired endothelium-dependent vasodilation responses to methacholine in isolated uterine arteries (pEC50 normoxia: 6.55 ± 0.23 vs. hypoxia: 5.02 ± 0.35, P < 0.01) and a reduced uterine artery RI in vivo (normoxia: 0.63 ± 0.04 vs. hypoxia: 0.53 ± 0.01, P < 0.05); associated with an increase in umbilical vein RI (normoxia: 0.35 ± 0.02 vs. hypoxia: 0.45 ± 0.04, P < 0.05). These data demonstrate maternal and fetal alterations in vascular function due to prenatal exposure to hypoxia. Further, although there was a compensatory reduction in uterine artery RI in the hypoxia groups, this was not sufficient to prevent IUGR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mais M Aljunaidy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Alberta, Edmonton, Canada.,Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Alberta, Edmonton, Canada; and.,Women and Children's Health Research Institute and the Cardiovascular Research Centre, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jude S Morton
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Alberta, Edmonton, Canada.,Women and Children's Health Research Institute and the Cardiovascular Research Centre, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Christy-Lynn Cooke
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Alberta, Edmonton, Canada.,Women and Children's Health Research Institute and the Cardiovascular Research Centre, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Sandra T Davidge
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Alberta, Edmonton, Canada; .,Department of Physiology, University of Alberta, Alberta, Edmonton, Canada; and.,Women and Children's Health Research Institute and the Cardiovascular Research Centre, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Rennie MY, Whiteley KJ, Adamson SL, Sled JG. Quantification of Gestational Changes in the Uteroplacental Vascular Tree Reveals Vessel Specific Hemodynamic Roles During Pregnancy in Mice. Biol Reprod 2016; 95:43. [PMID: 27335074 PMCID: PMC5029476 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.116.140681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2016] [Accepted: 06/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to establish the time course and hemodynamic significance of de novo formed and enlarged uteroplacental arteries during pregnancy. Using x-ray microcomputed tomography (n = 4–7 placentas from 2–4 dams/gestational group), uteroplacental arterial vascular dimensions were measured at individual implantation sites. Dimensions and topology were used to compute total and vessel-specific resistances and cross-sectional areas. Diameter enlargement of the uterine artery (+55% by Embryonic Day 5.5 [E5.5]) and preplacental radial arteries (+30% by E8.5) was significant only in early gestation. Formation of spiral arteries (E9.5–E11.5), maternal canals, and canal branches (E11.5–E13.5) during midgestation was followed by enlargement of these vessels such that, from E9.5 to E17.5 (near term), spiral artery resistance dropped 9-fold, and canal resistance became negligible. A 12-fold increase in terminal vessel cross-sectional area was nearly sufficient to offset known increases in flow so that blood velocity entering the exchange region was predicted to increase by only 2-fold. The calculated 47% decrease in total resistance downstream of the uterine artery, determined from vascular geometry, was in accord with prior uterine blood flow data in vivo and was due to enlarging spiral artery diameters. Interestingly, radial artery resistance was unchanged after E9.5 so that radial arteries accounted for 91% of resistance and pressure drop in the uteroplacental arterial network by E17.5. These findings led us to propose functional roles for the three morphologically defined vessel types: radial arteries to reduce pressure, spiral artery enlargement to increase flow with gestation, and maternal canal elaboration and enlargement to maintain low exit velocities into the exchange region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monique Y Rennie
- Mouse Imaging Centre, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kathie J Whiteley
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - S Lee Adamson
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - John G Sled
- Mouse Imaging Centre, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Benevenuto SG, Domenico MD, Martins MAG, Costa NS, de Souza ARL, Costa JL, Tavares MFM, Dolhnikoff M, Veras MM. Recreational use of marijuana during pregnancy and negative gestational and fetal outcomes: An experimental study in mice. Toxicology 2016; 376:94-101. [PMID: 27234314 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2016.05.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2015] [Revised: 04/01/2016] [Accepted: 05/24/2016] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of marijuana use among pregnant women is high. However, the effects on gestation and fetal development are not well known. Epidemiological and experimental studies present conflicting results because of the route of administration, dose, time of exposure, species used, and how Cannabis toxicity is tested (prepared extracts, specific components, or by pyrolysis). In this study, we experimentally investigated the effects of maternal inhalation of Cannabis sativa smoke representing as nearly as possible real world conditions of human marijuana use. Pregnant mice (n=20) were exposed (nose-only) daily for 5min to marijuana smoke (0.2g of Cannabis) from gestational day (GD) 5.5 to GD17.5 or filtered air. Food intake and maternal weight gain were recorded. Ultrasound biomicroscopy was performed on 10.5 and 16.5dpc.On GD18.5, half of the dams were euthanized for the evaluation of term fetus, placenta, and resorptions. Gestation length, parturition, and neonatal outcomes were evaluated in the other half. Five minutes of daily (low dose) exposure during pregnancy resulted in reduced birthweight, and litter size was not altered; however, the number of male pups per litter was higher. Besides, placental wet weight was increased and fetal to placental weight ratio was decreased in male fetuses, showing a sex-specific effect. At the end of gestation, females from the Cannabis group presented reduced maternal net body weight gain, despite a slight increase in their daily food intake compared to the control group. In conclusion, our results indicate that smoking marijuana during pregnancy even at low doses can be embryotoxic and fetotoxic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah G Benevenuto
- Department of Surgery, Sector of Anatomy, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marlise D Domenico
- Department of Pathology, Laboratory of Experimental Air Pollution, School of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Marco Antônio G Martins
- Department of Pathology, Laboratory of Experimental Air Pollution, School of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Natália S Costa
- Department of Pathology, Laboratory of Experimental Air Pollution, School of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Jose L Costa
- Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | | | - Marisa Dolhnikoff
- Department of Pathology, Laboratory of Experimental Air Pollution, School of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Mariana Matera Veras
- Department of Pathology, Laboratory of Experimental Air Pollution, School of Medicine, University of Sao Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil.
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Pravastatin ameliorates placental vascular defects, fetal growth, and cardiac function in a model of glucocorticoid excess. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2016; 113:6265-70. [PMID: 27185937 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1520356113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Fetoplacental glucocorticoid overexposure is a significant mechanism underlying fetal growth restriction and the programming of adverse health outcomes in the adult. Placental glucocorticoid inactivation by 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11β-HSD2) plays a key role. We previously discovered that Hsd11b2(-/-) mice, lacking 11β-HSD2, show marked underdevelopment of the placental vasculature. We now explore the consequences for fetal cardiovascular development and whether this is reversible. We studied Hsd11b2(+/+), Hsd11b2(+/-), and Hsd11b2(-/-) littermates from heterozygous (Hsd11b(+/-)) matings at embryonic day (E)14.5 and E17.5, where all three genotypes were present to control for maternal effects. Using high-resolution ultrasound, we found that umbilical vein blood velocity in Hsd11b2(-/-) fetuses did not undergo the normal gestational increase seen in Hsd11b2(+/+) littermates. Similarly, the resistance index in the umbilical artery did not show the normal gestational decline. Surprisingly, given that 11β-HSD2 absence is predicted to initiate early maturation, the E/A wave ratio was reduced at E17.5 in Hsd11b2(-/-) fetuses, suggesting impaired cardiac function. Pravastatin administration from E6.5, which increases placental vascular endothelial growth factor A and, thus, vascularization, increased placental fetal capillary volume, ameliorated the aberrant umbilical cord velocity, normalized fetal weight, and improved the cardiac function of Hsd11b2(-/-) fetuses. This improved cardiac function occurred despite persisting indications of increased glucocorticoid exposure in the Hsd11b2(-/-) fetal heart. Thus, the pravastatin-induced enhancement of fetal capillaries within the placenta and the resultant hemodynamic changes correspond with restored fetal cardiac function. Statins may represent a useful therapeutic approach to intrauterine growth retardation due to placental vascular hypofunction.
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Giannico AT, Garcia DAA, Gil EMU, Sousa MG, Froes TR. Assessment of umbilical artery flow and fetal heart rate to predict delivery time in bitches. Theriogenology 2016; 86:1654-61. [PMID: 27543362 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.03.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2015] [Revised: 03/30/2016] [Accepted: 03/31/2016] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to quantitatively investigate the oscillation of the fetal heart rate (HR) in advance of normal delivery and whether this index could be used to indicate impending delivery. In addition, fetal HR oscillation and umbilical artery resistive index (RI) were correlated to determine if the combination of these parameters provided a more accurate prediction of the time of delivery. Sonographic evaluation was performed in 11 pregnant bitches to evaluate the fetal HR and umbilical artery RI at the following antepartum times: 120 to 96 hours, 72 to 48 hours, 24 to 12 hours, and 12 to 1 hours. Statistical analysis indicated a correlation between the oscillation of fetal HR and the umbilical artery RI. As delivery approached a considerable reduction in the umbilical artery RI was documented and greater oscillations between maximum and minimum HRs occurred. We conclude that the quantitative analysis of fetal HR oscillations may be used to predict the time of delivery in bitches. The combination of fetal HR and umbilical artery RI together may provide more accurate predictions of time of delivery.
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Yadav BK, Neelavalli J, Krishnamurthy U, Szalai G, Shen Y, Nayak NR, Chaiworapongsa T, Hernandez-Andrade E, Than NG, Haacke EM, Romero R. A longitudinal study of placental perfusion using dynamic contrast enhanced magnetic resonance imaging in murine pregnancy. Placenta 2016; 43:90-7. [PMID: 26947613 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2015.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2015] [Revised: 12/18/2015] [Accepted: 12/31/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To evaluate changes in placental perfusion with advancing gestation in normal murine pregnancy using dynamic contrast enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI). METHODS Seven timed-pregnant CD-1 mice underwent DCE-MRI scanning longitudinally on gestational days (GD) 13, 15 and 17. Placentas were segmented into high (HPZ) and low perfusion zones (LPZ) using tissue similarity mapping. Blood perfusion of the respective regions and the whole placenta was quantified using the steepest slope method. The diameter of the maternal central canal (CC) was also measured. RESULTS An increase in perfusion was observed between GD13 and GD17 in the overall placenta (p = 0.04) and in the HPZ (p = 0.02). Although perfusion in the LPZ showed a slight increasing trend, it was not significant (p = 0.07). Perfusion, in units of ml/min/100 ml, in the overall placenta and the HPZ was respectively 61.2 ± 31.2 and 106.2 ± 56.3 at GD13 (n = 19 placentas); 90.3 ± 43.7 and 139 ± 55.4 at GD15 (n = 20); and 104.9 ± 76.1 and 172.2 ± 85.6 at GD17 (n = 14). The size of the CC increased with advancing gestation (p < 0.05). DISCUSSION Using longitudinal DCE-MRI, the gestational age-dependent perfusion change in the normal murine placenta and in its regional compartments was quantified. In mid and late gestations, placental constituent regions differ significantly in their perfusion rates. The CC diameter also showed increase with advancing gestation, which may be playing an important role toward the gestational age-dependent increase in placental perfusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brijesh Kumar Yadav
- Department of Radiology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Wayne State University College of Engineering, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Jaladhar Neelavalli
- Department of Radiology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Wayne State University College of Engineering, Detroit, MI, USA.
| | - Uday Krishnamurthy
- Department of Radiology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Wayne State University College of Engineering, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Gabor Szalai
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Yimin Shen
- Department of Radiology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Nihar R Nayak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Tinnakorn Chaiworapongsa
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Edgar Hernandez-Andrade
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Nandor Gabor Than
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; Lendulet Reproduction Research Group, Institute of Enzymology, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Hungarian Academy of Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - E Mark Haacke
- Department of Radiology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Wayne State University College of Engineering, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Roberto Romero
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA; Center for Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
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Yamaleyeva LM, Pulgar VM, Lindsey SH, Yamane L, Varagic J, McGee C, daSilva M, Lopes Bonfa P, Gurley SB, Brosnihan KB. Uterine artery dysfunction in pregnant ACE2 knockout mice is associated with placental hypoxia and reduced umbilical blood flow velocity. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2015; 309:E84-94. [PMID: 25968580 PMCID: PMC4490333 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00596.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2014] [Accepted: 05/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) knockout is associated with reduced fetal weight at late gestation; however, whether uteroplacental vascular and/or hemodynamic disturbances underlie this growth-restricted phenotype is unknown. Uterine artery reactivity and flow velocities, umbilical flow velocities, trophoblast invasion, and placental hypoxia were determined in ACE2 knockout (KO) and C57Bl/6 wild-type (WT) mice at day 14 of gestation. Although systolic blood pressure was higher in pregnant ACE2 KO vs. WT mice (102.3 ± 5.1 vs. 85.1 ± 1.9 mmHg, n = 5-6), the magnitude of difference was similar to that observed in nonpregnant ACE2 KO vs. WT mice. Maternal urinary protein excretion, serum creatinine, and kidney or heart weights were not different in ACE2 KO vs. WT. Fetal weight and pup-to-placental weight ratio were lower in ACE2 KO vs. WT mice. A higher sensitivity to Ang II [pD2 8.64 ± 0.04 vs. 8.5 ± 0.03 (-log EC50)] and greater maximal contraction to phenylephrine (169.0 ± 9.0 vs. 139.0 ± 7.0% KMAX), were associated with lower immunostaining for Ang II receptor 2 and fibrinoid content of the uterine artery in ACE2 KO mice. Uterine artery flow velocities and trophoblast invasion were similar between study groups. In contrast, umbilical artery peak systolic velocities (60.2 ± 4.5 vs. 75.1 ± 4.5 mm/s) and the resistance index measured using VEVO 2100 ultrasound were lower in the ACE2 KO vs. WT mice. Immunostaining for pimonidazole, a marker of hypoxia, and hypoxia-inducible factor-2α were higher in the trophospongium and placental labyrinth of the ACE2 KO vs. WT. In summary, placental hypoxia and uterine artery dysfunction develop before major growth of the fetus occurs and may explain the fetal growth restricted phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liliya M Yamaleyeva
- The Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina;
| | - Victor M Pulgar
- The Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Sarah H Lindsey
- Department of Pharmacology, Tulane University, New Orleans, Louisiana; and
| | - Larissa Yamane
- The Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Jasmina Varagic
- The Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Carolynne McGee
- The Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Mauro daSilva
- The Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Paula Lopes Bonfa
- The Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
| | - Susan B Gurley
- Department of Medicine, Duke University and Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Centers, Durham, North Carolina
| | - K Bridget Brosnihan
- The Hypertension and Vascular Research Center, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina
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Giannico AT, Gil EMU, Garcia DAA, Froes TR. The use of Doppler evaluation of the canine umbilical artery in prediction of delivery time and fetal distress. Anim Reprod Sci 2015; 154:105-12. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2014.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2014] [Revised: 12/26/2014] [Accepted: 12/27/2014] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
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Rennie MY, Rahman A, Whiteley KJ, Sled JG, Adamson SL. Site-specific increases in utero- and fetoplacental arterial vascular resistance in eNOS-deficient mice due to impaired arterial enlargement. Biol Reprod 2014; 92:48. [PMID: 25519187 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.114.123968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The sites of elevated vascular resistance that impede placental perfusion in pathological pregnancies are unknown. In the current study, we identified these sites in a knockout mouse model (eNOS(-/-)) with reduced uterine (-55%) and umbilical (-29%) artery blood flows caused by endothelial nitric oxide synthase deficiency. Uteroplacental and fetoplacental arterial vascular trees of pregnant mice near term were imaged using x-ray microcomputed tomography (n = 5-10 placentas from 3-5 dams/group). The resulting three-dimensional images were analyzed to assess vessel geometry and vascular resistance. In control and eNOS(-/-) trees, ∼90% of total uteroplacental vascular resistance was located in the radial arteries. Changes in eNOS(-/-) vessel geometry, including 30% reductions in uterine, radial, and spiral artery diameters, were calculated to increase arterial resistance downstream of the uterine artery by 2.3-fold, predicting a 57% decrease in uterine blood flow. Despite large reductions in eNOS(-/-) spiral arteries (-55% by volume) and maternal canals (-67% by volume), these vessels were relatively minor contributors to resistance. In the eNOS(-/-) fetoplacental tree, the number of arterioles (50-75 μm diameter) increased by 26%. Nevertheless, calculated resistance rose by 19%, predominantly because arteries near the periphery of the tree selectively exhibited a 7%-9% diameter reduction. We conclude that previously observed decreases in uterine and umbilical blood flows in eNOS(-/-) pregnancies are associated with markedly divergent structural changes in the uteroplacental versus fetoplacental circulations. Results showed the radial arteries were critical determinants of uteroplacental resistance in mice and therefore warrant greater attention in future studies in pathological human pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monique Y Rennie
- Mouse Imaging Centre, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anum Rahman
- Mouse Imaging Centre, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Kathie J Whiteley
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - John G Sled
- Mouse Imaging Centre, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - S Lee Adamson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Linask KK, Han M, Bravo-Valenzuela NJM. Changes in vitelline and utero-placental hemodynamics: implications for cardiovascular development. Front Physiol 2014; 5:390. [PMID: 25426076 PMCID: PMC4227466 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2014.00390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2014] [Accepted: 09/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Analyses of cardiovascular development have shown an important interplay between heart function, blood flow, and morphogenesis of heart structure during the formation of a four-chambered heart. It is known that changes in vitelline and placental blood flow seemingly contribute substantially to early cardiac hemodynamics. This suggests that in order to understand mammalian cardiac structure-hemodynamic functional relationships, blood flow from the extra-embryonic circulation needs to be taken into account and its possible impact on cardiogenesis defined. Previously published Doppler ultrasound analyses and data of utero-placental blood flow from human studies and those using the mouse model are compared to changes observed with environmental exposures that lead to cardiovascular anomalies. Use of current concepts and models related to mechanotransduction of blood flow and fluid forces may help in the future to better define the characteristics of normal and abnormal utero-placental blood flow and the changes in the biophysical parameters that may contribute to congenital heart defects. Evidence from multiple studies is discussed to provide a framework for future modeling of the impact of experimental changes in blood flow on the mouse heart during normal and abnormal cardiogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kersti K Linask
- Department of Pediatrics, Morsani College of Medicine, Children's Research Institute, University of South Florida Health St. Petersburg, FL, USA
| | - Mingda Han
- Department of Pediatrics, Morsani College of Medicine, Children's Research Institute, University of South Florida Health St. Petersburg, FL, USA
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Li H, Qu D, McDonald A, Isaac SM, Whiteley KJ, Sung HK, Nagy A, Adamson SL. Trophoblast-Specific Reduction of VEGFA Alters Placental Gene Expression and Maternal Cardiovascular Function in Mice1. Biol Reprod 2014; 91:87. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.114.118299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
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Renshall LJ, Dilworth MR, Greenwood SL, Sibley CP, Wareing M. In vitro assessment of mouse fetal abdominal aortic vascular function. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2014; 307:R746-54. [PMID: 25056105 PMCID: PMC4166756 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00058.2014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction (FGR) affects 3–8% of human pregnancies. Mouse models have provided important etiological data on FGR; they permit the assessment of treatment strategies on the physiological function of both mother and her developing offspring. Our study aimed to 1) develop a method to assess vascular function in fetal mice and 2) as a proof of principle ascertain whether a high dose of sildenafil citrate (SC; Viagra) administered to the pregnant dam affected fetal vascular reactivity. We developed a wire myography methodology for evaluation of fetal vascular function in vitro using the placenta-specific insulin-like growth factor II (Igf2) knockout mouse (P0; a model of FGR). Vascular function was determined in abdominal aortas isolated from P0 and wild-type (WT) fetuses at embryonic day (E) 18.5 of gestation. A subset of dams received SC 0.8 mg/ml via drinking water from E12.5; data were compared with water-only controls. Using wire myography, we found that fetal aortic rings exhibited significant agonist-induced contraction, and endothelium-dependent and endothelium-independent relaxation. Sex-specific alterations in reactivity were noted in both strains. Maternal treatment with SC significantly attenuated endothelium-dependent and endothelium-independent relaxation of fetal aortic rings. Mouse fetal abdominal aortas reproducibly respond to vasoactive agents. Study of these vessels in mouse genetic models of pregnancy complications may 1) help to delineate early signs of abnormal vascular reactivity and 2) inform whether treatments given to the mother during pregnancy may impact upon fetal vascular function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lewis J Renshall
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Institute of Human Development, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom; and St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Mark R Dilworth
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Institute of Human Development, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom; and St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Susan L Greenwood
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Institute of Human Development, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom; and St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Colin P Sibley
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Institute of Human Development, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom; and St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Mark Wareing
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Institute of Human Development, Faculty of Medical and Human Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom; and St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals National Health Service Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
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Major mouse placental compartments revealed by diffusion-weighted MRI, contrast-enhanced MRI, and fluorescence imaging. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2014; 111:10353-8. [PMID: 24969421 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1401695111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian models, and mouse studies in particular, play a central role in our understanding of placental development. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) could be a valuable tool to further these studies, providing both structural and functional information. As fluid dynamics throughout the placenta are driven by a variety of flow and diffusion processes, diffusion-weighted MRI could enhance our understanding of the exchange properties of maternal and fetal blood pools--and thereby of placental function. These studies, however, have so far been hindered by the small sizes, the unavoidable motions, and the challenging air/water/fat heterogeneities, associated with mouse placental environments. The present study demonstrates that emerging methods based on the spatiotemporal encoding (SPEN) of the MRI information can robustly overcome these obstacles. Using SPEN MRI in combination with albumin-based contrast agents, we analyzed the diffusion behavior of developing placentas in a cohort of mice. These studies successfully discriminated the maternal from the fetal blood flows; the two orders of magnitude differences measured in these fluids' apparent diffusion coefficients suggest a nearly free diffusion behavior for the former and a strong flow-based component for the latter. An intermediate behavior was observed by these methods for a third compartment that, based on maternal albumin endocytosis, was associated with trophoblastic cells in the interphase labyrinth. Structural features associated with these dynamic measurements were consistent with independent intravital and ex vivo fluorescence microscopy studies and are discussed within the context of the anatomy of developing mouse placentas.
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Hernandez-Andrade E, Ahn H, Szalai G, Korzeniewski SJ, Wang B, King M, Chaiworapongsa T, Than NG, Romero R. Evaluation of utero-placental and fetal hemodynamic parameters throughout gestation in pregnant mice using high-frequency ultrasound. ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE & BIOLOGY 2014; 40:351-360. [PMID: 24342911 PMCID: PMC4179107 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2013.09.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2012] [Revised: 08/09/2013] [Accepted: 09/22/2013] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Throughout gestation, changes in maternal and fetal Doppler parameters in pregnant mice, similar to those obtained in human fetuses, were detected using high-frequency ultrasound with a 55-MHz linear probe. In the uterine arteries (UtA), fetal umbilical artery (UA) and fetal ductus venosus (DV) peak systolic velocity increased (UtA, p = 0.04; UA, p = 0.0004; DV, p = 0.02), end-diastolic velocity increased (UtA, p < 0.001; UA, p < 0.0001; DV, p = 0.01) and resistance index decreased (UtA, p = 0.0004; UA, p = 0.0001; DV, p = 0.04) toward the end of pregnancy. In the middle cerebral and carotid arteries, end diastolic velocity increased (p = 0.02 and p < 0.0001) and resistance index decreased (both vessels, p < 0.0001). There was a reduction in the pulsatile pattern in the umbilical vein (p < 0.05). The increased velocities and reduced resistance index suggest a progressive increment in blood flow to the fetal mouse toward the end of pregnancy. Fetal and utero-placental vascular parameters in CD-1 mice can be reliably evaluated using high-frequency ultrasound.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edgar Hernandez-Andrade
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Hyunyoung Ahn
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Gabor Szalai
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Steven J Korzeniewski
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Bing Wang
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Mary King
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Tinnakorn Chaiworapongsa
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Nandor Gabor Than
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Roberto Romero
- Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD/NIH/DHHS, Bethesda, MD, and Detroit, MI, USA
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Cotechini T, Komisarenko M, Sperou A, Macdonald-Goodfellow S, Adams MA, Graham CH. Inflammation in rat pregnancy inhibits spiral artery remodeling leading to fetal growth restriction and features of preeclampsia. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 211:165-79. [PMID: 24395887 PMCID: PMC3892976 DOI: 10.1084/jem.20130295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 216] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Abnormal maternal inflammation leads to TNF-mediated fetal growth restriction and some features of preeclampsia that can be ameliorated with the nitric oxide mimetic nitroglycerin. Fetal growth restriction (FGR) and preeclampsia (PE) are often associated with abnormal maternal inflammation, deficient spiral artery (SA) remodeling, and altered uteroplacental perfusion. Here, we provide evidence of a novel mechanistic link between abnormal maternal inflammation and the development of FGR with features of PE. Using a model in which pregnant rats are administered low-dose lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on gestational days 13.5–16.5, we show that abnormal inflammation resulted in FGR mediated by tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF). Inflammation was also associated with deficient trophoblast invasion and SA remodeling, as well as with altered uteroplacental hemodynamics and placental nitrosative stress. Moreover, inflammation increased maternal mean arterial pressure (MAP) and was associated with renal structural alterations and proteinuria characteristic of PE. Finally, transdermal administration of the nitric oxide (NO) mimetic glyceryl trinitrate prevented altered uteroplacental perfusion, LPS-induced inflammation, placental nitrosative stress, renal structural and functional alterations, increase in MAP, and FGR. These findings demonstrate that maternal inflammation can lead to severe pregnancy complications via a mechanism that involves increased maternal levels of TNF. Our study provides a rationale for the use of antiinflammatory agents or NO-mimetics in the treatment and/or prevention of inflammation-associated pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiziana Cotechini
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada K7L 3N6
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Rennie MY, Sled JG, Adamson SL. Effects of Genes and Environment on the Fetoplacental Arterial Microcirculation in Mice Revealed by Micro-Computed Tomography Imaging. Microcirculation 2014; 21:48-57. [DOI: 10.1111/micc.12073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2013] [Accepted: 06/22/2013] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Monique Y. Rennie
- Heart Research Center; Oregon Health and Science University; Portland Oregon USA
| | - John G. Sled
- Mouse Imaging Centre of the Hospital for Sick Children, Department of Medical Biophysics; University of Toronto; Toronto Ontario Canada
| | - S. Lee Adamson
- Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute of Mount Sinai Hospital; Departments of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, and Physiology; University of Toronto; Toronto Ontario Canada
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Leonard S, Lima PDA, Croy BA, Murrant CL. Gestational modification of murine spiral arteries does not reduce their drug-induced vasoconstrictive responses in vivo. Biol Reprod 2013; 89:139. [PMID: 24174571 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.113.113688] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Dynamic control of maternal blood flow to the placenta is critical for healthy pregnancy. In many tissues, microvasculature arteries control the flow. The uterine/endometrial vascular bed changes during pregnancy include physiological remodeling of spiral arteries from constricted artery-like structures to dilated vein-like structures between Gestation Day 8 (gd8) and gd12 in mice and wk 12-16 in humans. These changes occur, in part, due to local environmental changes such as decidualization, recruitment of maternal uterine natural killer cells, and invasion of conceptus-derived trophoblasts. No current preparations permit in vivo testing of decidual microvascular reactivity. We report an in vivo intravital fluorescence microscopy model that permits functional study of the entire uterine microvascular bed (uterine, arcuate, radial, basal, and spiral arteries) in gravid C57BL/6 mice. Vascular reactivities were measured at gd8 prespiral arterial remodeling and gd12 (postremodeling) to a range of concentrations of adenosine (10(-8)-10(-6) M), acetylcholine (10(-7)-10(-5) M), phenylephrine (10(-7)-10(-5) M), and angiotensin II (10(-8)-10(-6) M). At baseline, each arterial branch order was significantly more dilated on gd12 than gd8. Each microvascular level responded to each agonist on gd8 and gd12. At gd12, vasodilation to adenosine was attenuated in uterine, arcuate, and basal arteries, while constrictor activity to angiotensin II was enhanced in uterine and arcuate arteries. The tendency for increasing vasoconstriction between gd8 to gd12 and the constrictor responses of modified spiral arteries were unexpected findings that may reflect influences of the intact in vivo environment rather than inherent properties of the vessels and may be relevant to ongoing human pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean Leonard
- Department of Human Biology and Nutritional Science, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
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Rueda-Clausen CF, Stanley JL, Thambiraj DF, Poudel R, Davidge ST, Baker PN. Effect of prenatal hypoxia in transgenic mouse models of preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction. Reprod Sci 2013; 21:492-502. [PMID: 24084523 DOI: 10.1177/1933719113503401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Mice lacking endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS(-)(/-)) or catechol-O-methyl transferase (COMT(-/-)) exhibit a preeclampsia-like phenotype and fetal growth restriction. We hypothesized that a hypoxic insult would result in a more severe phenotype. Pregnant eNOS(-/-), COMT(-/-) and control (C57BL/6J) mice were randomized to hypoxic (10.5% O(2)) or normal conditions (20.9% O(2)) from gestational day 10.5 to 18.5. Hypoxia increased the blood pressure in all genotypes and proteinuria in C57BL/6J and eNOS(-/-) mice. Fetal survival was significantly reduced following hypoxia, particularly in eNOS(-/-) mice. Birth weight was decreased in both C57BL/6J and COMT(-/-) mice. Placentas from COMT(-/-) mice demonstrated increased peroxynitrite. Despite similar hypoxia-induced effects on maternal blood pressure and proteinuria, eNOS(-/-) embryos have a decreased tolerance to hypoxia. Compared to C57BL/6J, COMT(-/-) mice exhibited less severe changes in proteinuria and fetal growth when exposed to prenatal hypoxia. This relative resistance to prenatal hypoxia was associated with a significant increase in placental levels of peroxynitrite.
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Affiliation(s)
- C F Rueda-Clausen
- 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Venditti CC, Casselman R, Murphy MSQ, Adamson SL, Sled JG, Smith GN. Chronic carbon monoxide inhalation during pregnancy augments uterine artery blood flow and uteroplacental vascular growth in mice. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2013; 305:R939-48. [PMID: 23986360 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00204.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
End-tidal breath carbon monoxide (CO) is abnormally low in women with preeclampsia (PE), while women smoking during pregnancy have shown an increase in CO levels and a 33% lower incidence of PE. This effect may be, in part, due to lowered sFLT1 plasma levels in smokers, and perhaps low-level CO inhalation can attenuate the development of PE in high-risk women. Our previous work showed maternal chronic CO exposure (<300 ppm) throughout gestation had no maternal or fetal deleterious effects in mice. Our current study evaluated the uteroplacental vascular effects in CD-1 maternal mice that inhaled CO (250 ppm) both chronically, gestation day (GD) 0.5 to 18.5, and acutely, 2.5 h on each of GD 10.5 and 14.5. We demonstrated, using microultrasound measurements of blood velocity and microcomputed tomography imaging of the uteroplacental vasculature, that chronic maternal exposure to CO doubled uterine artery blood flow and augmented uteroplacental vascular diameters and branching. This finding may be of benefit to women with PE, as they exhibit uteroplacental vascular compromise. The ratio of VEGF protein to its FLT1 receptor was increased in the placenta, suggesting a shift to a more angiogenic state; however, maternal circulating levels of VEGF, sFLT1, and their ratio were not significantly changed. Doppler blood velocities in the maternal uterine artery and fetal umbilical artery and vein were unaltered. This study provides in vivo evidence that chronic inhalation of 250 ppm CO throughout gestation augments uterine blood flow and uteroplacental vascular growth, changes that may protect against the subsequent development of preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolina C Venditti
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston General Hospital, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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