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Habelrih T, Augustin TL, Mauffette-Whyte F, Ferri B, Sawaya K, Côté F, Gallant M, Olson DM, Chemtob S. Inflammatory mechanisms of preterm labor and emerging anti-inflammatory interventions. Cytokine Growth Factor Rev 2024; 78:50-63. [PMID: 39048393 DOI: 10.1016/j.cytogfr.2024.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/27/2024]
Abstract
Preterm birth is a major public health concern, requiring a deeper understanding of its underlying inflammatory mechanisms and to develop effective therapeutic strategies. This review explores the complex interaction between inflammation and preterm labor, highlighting the pivotal role of the dysregulation of inflammation in triggering premature delivery. The immunological environment of pregnancy, characterized by a fragile balance of immune tolerance and resistance, is disrupted in preterm labor, leading to a pathological inflammatory response. Feto-maternal infections, among other pro-inflammatory stimuli, trigger the activation of toll-like receptors and the production of pro-inflammatory mediators, promoting uterine contractility and cervical ripening. Emerging anti-inflammatory therapeutics offer promising approaches for the prevention of preterm birth by targeting key inflammatory pathways. From TLR-4 antagonists to chemokine and interleukin receptor antagonists, these interventions aim to modulate the inflammatory environment and prevent adverse pregnancy outcomes. In conclusion, a comprehensive understanding of the inflammatory mechanisms leading to preterm labor is crucial for the development of targeted interventions in hope of reducing the incidence of preterm birth and improving neonatal health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tiffany Habelrih
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada; Research Center, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Thalyssa-Lyn Augustin
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada; Research Center, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Félix Mauffette-Whyte
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada; Research Center, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Béatrice Ferri
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada; Research Center, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Kevin Sawaya
- Research Center, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montreal, QC, Canada; Programmes de cycles supérieurs en sciences biomédicales, Faculté de médecine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - France Côté
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada; Research Center, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Mathilde Gallant
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada; Research Center, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - David M Olson
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pediatrics, and Physiology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Sylvain Chemtob
- Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC, Canada; Research Center, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montreal, QC, Canada.
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Taylor BD, Criscitiello MF, Hernandez T, Norwood B, Noah A, Bazer FW. Interferon epsilon and preterm birth subtypes; a new piece of the type I interferon puzzle during pregnancy? Am J Reprod Immunol 2022; 87:e13526. [PMID: 35147251 PMCID: PMC9978937 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Interferon epsilon (IFNε) is a unique type I IFN that is expressed in response to sex steroids. Studies suggest that type I IFNs regulate inflammation-induced preterm birth (PTB), but no study has examined the role of IFNε in human pregnancy. METHOD OF STUDY We used stored vaginal swabs between 8 and 26 weeks of gestation from the Global Alliance to Prevent Prematurity and Stillbirth (GAPPS) biobank and measured IFNε by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). A total of 29 women with spontaneous preterm births, 34 women with medically indicated preterm births, and 134 women with term births were included. Secondary outcomes included a preterm birth with chorioamnionitis and preeclampsia with a preterm birth. Logistic regression calculated odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) adjusting for maternal age, race, body mass index, prior pregnancy complications, lower genital tract infections, chronic health conditions, and gestational age at blood draw. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS There was no significant association between IFNε and spontaneous preterm birth (ORadj 1.0, 0.8-1.3) or chorioamnionitis (ORadj 1.6, 0.7-3.5). A trend toward increased odds of medically indicated preterm birth (ORadj . 1.3, 1.0-1.8) was observed. This was likely due to elevated IFNε among women with preterm preeclampsia (ORadj . 2.0, 95% CI 1.3-3.2). While exploratory, our novel findings suggest that larger longitudinal studies of IFNε across human pregnancy may be warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandie DePaoli Taylor
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Basic and Translational Research, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, 77555,Department of Preventive Medicine and Population Health, University of Texas Medical Branch-Galveston, Galveston, Texas,Correspondence: Brandie DePaoli Taylor, PhD, MPH, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Basic and Translational Research, University of Texas Medical Branch ; phone: 409-772-7592
| | - Michael F. Criscitiello
- Comparative Immunogenetics Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843,Department of Microbial Pathogenesis and Immunology, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843
| | - Tyne Hernandez
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, 19143
| | - Brooke Norwood
- Comparative Immunogenetics Laboratory, Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843
| | - Akawinyene Noah
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Basic and Translational Research, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, 77555,Department of Preventive Medicine and Population Health, University of Texas Medical Branch-Galveston, Galveston, Texas
| | - Fuller W. Bazer
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas 77843
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Mosebarger A, Reddi RN, Menon R, Kammala AK. Computational Screening of the Natural Product Osthole and Its Derivates for Anti-Inflammatory Activity. Life (Basel) 2022; 12:life12040505. [PMID: 35454996 PMCID: PMC9030959 DOI: 10.3390/life12040505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Revised: 03/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Osthole (OS) is a natural coumarin with a long history of medicinal use in a variety of diseases, such as itch and menstrual disorders. In recent years, OS has been shown to treat inflammation and reduce the expression and activity of NF-κB, although its mechanism of action is still unclear. Overexpression of inflammatory cytokines can have many negative effects in the body, including inducing preterm labor; thus, the modulation of inflammation by OS and its derivatives may be able to delay preterm birth, increasing neonatal survival rates. The objectives of this study were to screen and identify the derivatives of OS with the highest potential for binding capacity to inflammatory mediators NF-κB, TNF-α, and ERK1, and to measure the drug-like properties of these compounds. GLIDE docking in Schrodinger Maestro software was used to calculate docking scores for a variety of semi-synthetic OS derivatives against three proteins involved in inflammation: NF-κB, TNF-α, and ERK1. Schrodinger Qikprop was also used to measure the pharmaceutically relevant properties of the compounds. The protonated demethoxy osthole 1 showed the highest docking of all the proteins tested, while the deprotonated demethoxy osthole 2 consistently had the lowest scores, denoting the importance of pH in the binding activity of this derivative. The lowest docking was at NF-κB, suggesting that this is less likely to be the primary target of OS. All of the screened derivatives showed high drug potential, based on their Qikprop properties. OS and its derivatives showed potential to bind to multiple proteins that regulate the inflammatory response and are prospective candidates for delaying preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Mosebarger
- Division of Basic & Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX 77555, USA; (A.M.); (R.M.)
| | - Rambabu N. Reddi
- Department of Organic Chemistry, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, 234 Herzl St., P.O. Box 26, Rehovot 7610001, Israel;
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Division of Basic & Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX 77555, USA; (A.M.); (R.M.)
| | - Ananth Kumar Kammala
- Division of Basic & Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, 301 University Blvd., Galveston, TX 77555, USA; (A.M.); (R.M.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-517-899-6963
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das Neves J, Notario-Pérez F, Sarmento B. Women-specific routes of administration for drugs: A critical overview. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2021; 176:113865. [PMID: 34280514 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2021.113865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The woman's body presents a number of unique anatomical features that can constitute valuable routes for the administration of drugs, either for local or systemic action. These are associated with genitalia (vaginal, endocervical, intrauterine, intrafallopian and intraovarian routes), changes occurring during pregnancy (extra-amniotic, intra-amniotic and intraplacental routes) and the female breast (breast intraductal route). While the vaginal administration of drug products is common, other routes have limited clinical application and are fairly unknown even for scientists involved in drug delivery science. Understanding the possibilities and limitations of women-specific routes is of key importance for the development of new preventative, diagnostic and therapeutic strategies that will ultimately contribute to the advancement of women's health. This article provides an overview on women-specific routes for the administration of drugs, focusing on aspects such as biological features pertaining to drug delivery, relevance in current clinical practice, available drug dosage forms/delivery systems and administration techniques, as well as recent trends in the field.
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Sheller-Miller S, Radnaa E, Yoo JK, Kim E, Choi K, Kim Y, Kim YN, Richardson L, Choi C, Menon R. Exosomal delivery of NF-κB inhibitor delays LPS-induced preterm birth and modulates fetal immune cell profile in mouse models. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2021; 7:eabd3865. [PMID: 33523942 PMCID: PMC10671068 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abd3865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Accepted: 12/04/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Accumulation of immune cells and activation of the pro-inflammatory transcription factor NF-κB in feto-maternal uterine tissues is a key feature of preterm birth (PTB) pathophysiology. Reduction of the fetal inflammatory response and NF-κB activation are key strategies to minimize infection-associated PTB. Therefore, we engineered extracellular vesicles (exosomes) to contain an NF-κB inhibitor, termed super-repressor (SR) IκBα. Treatment with SR exosomes (1 × 1010 per intraperitoneal injection) after lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge on gestation day 15 (E15) prolonged gestation by over 24 hours (PTB ≤ E18.5) and reduced maternal inflammation (n ≥ 4). Furthermore, using a transgenic model in which fetal tissues express the red fluorescent protein tdTomato while maternal tissues do not, we report that LPS-induced PTB in mice is associated with influx of fetal innate immune cells, not maternal, into feto-maternal uterine tissues. SR packaged in exosomes provides a stable and specific intervention for reducing the inflammatory response associated with PTB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Sheller-Miller
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Perinatal Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Enkhtuya Radnaa
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Perinatal Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | | | - Eunsoo Kim
- ILIAS Biologics, Incorporated, Daejeon, South Korea
| | | | - Youngeun Kim
- ILIAS Biologics, Incorporated, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Yu Na Kim
- ILIAS Biologics, Incorporated, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Lauren Richardson
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Perinatal Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Chulhee Choi
- ILIAS Biologics, Incorporated, Daejeon, South Korea
- Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Perinatal Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA.
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Sodium Hydrogen Exchanger Regulatory Factor-1 (NHERF1) Regulates Fetal Membrane Inflammation. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21207747. [PMID: 33092043 PMCID: PMC7589612 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21207747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Revised: 10/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The fetal inflammatory response, a key contributor of infection-associated preterm birth (PTB), is mediated by nuclear factor kappa B (NF-kB) activation. Na+/H+ exchanger regulatory factor-1 (NHERF1) is an adapter protein that can regulate intracellular signal transduction and thus influence NF-kB activation. Accordingly, NHERF1 has been reported to enhance proinflammatory cytokine release and amplify inflammation in a NF-kB-dependent fashion in different cell types. The objective of this study was to examine the role of NHERF1 in regulating fetal membrane inflammation during PTB. We evaluated the levels of NHERF1 in human fetal membranes from term labor (TL), term not in labor (TNIL), and PTB and in a CD1 mouse model of PTB induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Additionally, primary cultures of fetal membrane cells were treated with LPS, and NHERF1 expression and cytokine production were evaluated. Gene silencing methods using small interfering RNA targeting NHERF1 were used to determine the functional relevance of NHERF1 in primary cultures. NHERF1 expression was significantly (p < 0.001) higher in TL and PTB membranes compared to TNIL membranes, and this coincided with enhanced (p < 0.01) interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8 expression levels. LPS-treated animals delivering PTB had increased levels of NHERF1, IL-6, and IL-8 compared to phosphate-buffered saline (PBS; control) animals. Silencing of NHERF1 expression resulted in a significant reduction in NF-kB activation and IL-6 and IL-8 production as well as increased IL-10 production. In conclusion, downregulation of NHERF1 increased anti-inflammatory IL-10, and reducing NHERF1 expression could be a potential therapeutic strategy to reduce the risk of infection/inflammation associated with PTB.
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7
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Song Y, Kim Y, Ha S, Sheller-Miller S, Yoo J, Choi C, Park CH. The emerging role of exosomes as novel therapeutics: Biology, technologies, clinical applications, and the next. Am J Reprod Immunol 2020; 85:e13329. [PMID: 32846024 PMCID: PMC7900947 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The extracellular vesicles (EVs) research area has grown rapidly because of their pivotal roles in intercellular communications and maintaining homeostasis of individual organism. As a subtype of EVs, exosomes are made via unique biogenesis pathway and exhibit disparate functional and phenotypic characteristics. Functionally, exosomes transfer biological messages from donor cell to recipient cell, which makes exosomes as a novel therapeutic platform delivering therapeutic materials to the target tissue/cell. Currently, both academia and industry try to develop exosome platform‐based therapeutics for disease management, some of which are already in clinical trials. In this review, we will discuss focusing on therapeutic values of exosomes, recent advances in therapeutic exosome platform development, and late development of exosome therapeutics in diverse therapeutic areas.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sunhyung Ha
- ILIAS Biologics Inc, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
| | - Samantha Sheller-Miller
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine & Perinatal Research, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, USA
| | | | - Chulhee Choi
- ILIAS Biologics Inc, Daejeon, Republic of Korea.,Department of Bio and Brain Engineering, KAIST, Daejeon, Republic of Korea
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Monsivais LA, Sheller-Miller S, Russell W, Saade GR, Dixon CL, Urrabaz-Garza R, Menon R. Fetal membrane extracellular vesicle profiling reveals distinct pathways induced by infection and inflammation in vitro. Am J Reprod Immunol 2020; 84:e13282. [PMID: 32506769 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Fetal inflammatory signals can be propagated to maternal tissues to initiate labor via exosomes (extracellular vesicles; 30-150 nm). We tested the hypothesis that fetal membrane cells exposed to infectious and inflammatory mediators associated with preterm birth (PTB) produce exosomes with distinct protein cargo contents indicative of underlying pathobiology. METHODS OF STUDY Fetal membrane explants (FM) as well as primary amnion epithelial (AEC) and mesenchymal cells (AMC), and chorion cells (CC) from term deliveries were maintained in normal conditions (control) or exposed to LPS 100 ng/mL or TNF-α 50 ng/mL for 48 hours. Exosomes were isolated from media by differential centrifugation and size exclusion chromatography and characterized using cryo-electron microscopy (morphology), nanoparticle tracking analysis (size and quantity), Western blot (markers), and mass spectroscopy (cargo proteins). Ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA) determined pathways indicated by differentially expressed proteins. RESULTS Irrespective of source or treatment, exosomes were spherical, had similar size, quantities, and markers (ALIX, CD63, and CD81). However, exosome cargo proteins were different between FM and individual fetal membrane cell-derived exosomes in response to treatments. Several common proteins were seen; however, there are several unique proteins expressed by exosomes from different cell types in response to distinct stimuli indicative of unique pathways and physiological functions in cells. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrate collective tissue and independent cell response reflected in exosomes in response to infectious and inflammatory stimuli. These cargoes determined underlying physiology and their potential in enhancing inflammation in a paracrine fashion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis A Monsivais
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine & Perinatal Research, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Samantha Sheller-Miller
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine & Perinatal Research, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - William Russell
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - George R Saade
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine & Perinatal Research, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Christopher L Dixon
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine & Perinatal Research, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Rheanna Urrabaz-Garza
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine & Perinatal Research, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine & Perinatal Research, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, USA
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Triggs T, Kumar S, Mitchell M. Experimental drugs for the inhibition of preterm labor. Expert Opin Investig Drugs 2020; 29:507-523. [PMID: 32290715 DOI: 10.1080/13543784.2020.1752661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Preterm birth is the leading cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality globally and poses a substantial economic burden. Consequently, there is a need for the identification of therapeutic targets and novel experimental drugs for the inhibition of preterm labor to improve neonatal outcomes. AREAS COVERED The authors review the pathophysiology of labor and the inflammatory pathways underpinning it. The interruption of these pathways forms the basis of therapeutic targets to inhibit preterm labor. Current drugs available for the treatment of preterm labor are reviewed, followed by experimental drugs including toll-like receptor 4 (TLR-4) antagonists, cytokine suppressive anti-inflammatory drugs (CSAIDs), N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), Sulfasalazine (SSZ), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) antagonists, interleukin-1 receptor (IL-1) inhibitors, omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and lipid metabolites, and the polyphenols. EXPERT OPINION A number of new therapeutic strategies for the prevention of preterm labor are being investigated. These have the potential to improve neurodevelopmental outcomes and survival in babies born preterm, reducing the economic and healthcare costs of caring for the complex needs of these children in the immediate and long term. It is likely that over the next decade there will be a new treatment option that targets the pathological inflammatory processes involved in preterm labor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tegan Triggs
- Women's & Newborn Services, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital , Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Sailesh Kumar
- Women's & Newborn Services, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital , Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Murray Mitchell
- Women's & Newborn Services, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital , Herston, Queensland, Australia
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10
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Cappelletti M, Presicce P, Kallapur SG. Immunobiology of Acute Chorioamnionitis. Front Immunol 2020; 11:649. [PMID: 32373122 PMCID: PMC7177011 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2019] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute chorioamnionitis is characterized by neutrophilic infiltration and inflammation at the maternal fetal interface. It is a relatively common complication of pregnancy and can have devastating consequences including preterm labor, maternal infections, fetal infection/inflammation, fetal lung, brain, and gastrointestinal tract injury. In this review, we will discuss current understanding of the pathogenesis, immunobiology, and mechanisms of this condition. Most commonly, acute chorioamnionitis is a result of ascending infection with relatively low-virulence organisms such as the Ureaplasma species. Furthermore, recent vaginal microbiome studies suggest that there is a link between vaginal dysbiosis, vaginal inflammation, and ascending infection. Although less common, microorganisms invading the maternal-fetal interface via hematogenous route (e.g., Zika virus, Cytomegalovirus, and Listeria) can cause placental villitis and severe fetal inflammation and injury. We will provide an overview of the knowledge gleaned from different animal models of acute chorioamnionitis and the role of different immune cells in different maternal-fetal compartments. Lastly, we will discuss how infectious agents can break the maternal tolerance of fetal allograft during pregnancy and highlight the novel future therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Cappelletti
- Divisions of Neonatology and Developmental Biology, David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Pietro Presicce
- Divisions of Neonatology and Developmental Biology, David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Suhas G Kallapur
- Divisions of Neonatology and Developmental Biology, David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
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11
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Robertson SA, Hutchinson MR, Rice KC, Chin PY, Moldenhauer LM, Stark MJ, Olson DM, Keelan JA. Targeting Toll-like receptor-4 to tackle preterm birth and fetal inflammatory injury. Clin Transl Immunology 2020; 9:e1121. [PMID: 32313651 PMCID: PMC7156293 DOI: 10.1002/cti2.1121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2019] [Revised: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 02/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Every year, 15 million pregnancies end prematurely, resulting in more than 1 million infant deaths and long-term health consequences for many children. The physiological processes of labour and birth involve essential roles for immune cells and pro-inflammatory cytokines in gestational tissues. There is compelling evidence that the mechanisms underlying spontaneous preterm birth are initiated when a premature and excessive inflammatory response is triggered by infection or other causes. Exposure to pro-inflammatory mediators is emerging as a major factor in the 'fetal inflammatory response syndrome' that often accompanies preterm birth, where unscheduled effects in fetal tissues interfere with normal development and predispose to neonatal morbidity. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are critical upstream gatekeepers of inflammatory activation. TLR4 is prominently involved through its ability to sense and integrate signals from a range of microbial and endogenous triggers to provoke and perpetuate inflammation. Preclinical studies have identified TLR4 as an attractive pharmacological target to promote uterine quiescence and protect the fetus from inflammatory injury. Novel small-molecule inhibitors of TLR4 signalling, specifically the non-opioid receptor antagonists (+)-naloxone and (+)-naltrexone, are proving highly effective in animal models for preventing preterm birth induced by bacterial mimetic LPS, heat-killed Escherichia coli, or the TLR4-dependent pro-inflammatory lipid, platelet-activating factor (PAF). Here, we summarise the rationale for targeting TLR4 as a master regulator of inflammation in fetal and gestational tissues, and the potential utility of TLR4 antagonists as candidates for preventative and therapeutic application in preterm delivery and fetal inflammatory injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A Robertson
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School University of Adelaide Adelaide SA Australia
| | - Mark R Hutchinson
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School University of Adelaide Adelaide SA Australia.,ARC Centre for Nanoscale Biophotonics and Adelaide Medical School University of Adelaide Adelaide SA Australia
| | - Kenner C Rice
- Drug Design and Synthesis Section National Institute on Drug Abuse and National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism National Institutes of Health Rockville MD USA
| | - Peck-Yin Chin
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School University of Adelaide Adelaide SA Australia
| | - Lachlan M Moldenhauer
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School University of Adelaide Adelaide SA Australia
| | - Michael J Stark
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School University of Adelaide Adelaide SA Australia
| | - David M Olson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Department of Physiology and Pediatrics 220 HMRC University of Alberta Edmonton AB Canada
| | - Jeffrey A Keelan
- Division of Obstetrics & Gynaecology University of Western Australia Perth WA Australia
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12
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Stinson LF, Payne MS. Infection-mediated preterm birth: Bacterial origins and avenues for intervention. Aust N Z J Obstet Gynaecol 2019; 59:781-790. [PMID: 31617207 DOI: 10.1111/ajo.13078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2019] [Revised: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 09/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Preterm birth (PTB) is globally the leading cause of death and disability in children under five years of age. Intra-amniotic infection is well recognised as a major cause of PTB. Importantly, it is the most common cause of extreme PTB (birth prior to 28 weeks gestation), which is frequently associated with a wide range of serious neonatal morbidities. Recent developments in next generation sequencing technologies, combined with many years of culture-based microbiological data have allowed us to gain a deeper understanding of the pathogenesis of infection-mediated PTB. In particular, studies have revealed numerous potential routes to intra-amniotic infection beyond the classically described ascending vaginal route. Currently, antibiotic therapy is standard treatment for suspected or confirmed intra-amniotic infection, although its use in this context has had mixed success due to problems ranging from inappropriate antibiotic selection in relation to the target organism/s, to poor transplacental drug passage. In this review, we will draw together evidence from animal models and human studies to characterise pathways to intra-amniotic infection. We will then thoroughly outline current therapeutic protocols for cases of intra-amniotic infection and suggest potential new avenues for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa F Stinson
- School of Molecular Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Matthew S Payne
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Health & Medical Sciences, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
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13
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Jelliffe-Pawlowski LL, Rand L, Bedell B, Baer RJ, Oltman SP, Norton ME, Shaw GM, Stevenson DK, Murray JC, Ryckman KK. Prediction of preterm birth with and without preeclampsia using mid-pregnancy immune and growth-related molecular factors and maternal characteristics. J Perinatol 2018; 38:963-972. [PMID: 29795450 PMCID: PMC6089890 DOI: 10.1038/s41372-018-0112-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2017] [Revised: 02/10/2018] [Accepted: 03/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate if mid-pregnancy immune and growth-related molecular factors predict preterm birth (PTB) with and without (±) preeclampsia. STUDY DESIGN Included were 400 women with singleton deliveries in California in 2009-2010 (200 PTB and 200 term) divided into training and testing samples at a 2:1 ratio. Sixty-three markers were tested in 15-20 serum samples using multiplex technology. Linear discriminate analysis was used to create a discriminate function. Model performance was assessed using area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). RESULTS Twenty-five serum biomarkers along with maternal age <34 years and poverty status identified >80% of women with PTB ± preeclampsia with best performance in women with preterm preeclampsia (AUC = 0.889, 95% confidence interval (0.822-0.959) training; 0.883 (0.804-0.963) testing). CONCLUSION Together with maternal age and poverty status, mid-pregnancy immune and growth factors reliably identified most women who went on to have a PTB ± preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura L Jelliffe-Pawlowski
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA, 94107, USA.
- California Preterm Birth Initiative, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, California, 94107, USA.
| | - Larry Rand
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA, 94107, USA
- California Preterm Birth Initiative, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, California, 94107, USA
| | - Bruce Bedell
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa School of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | - Rebecca J Baer
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- California Preterm Birth Initiative, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, California, 94107, USA
| | - Scott P Oltman
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, 92093, USA
- California Preterm Birth Initiative, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, California, 94107, USA
| | - Mary E Norton
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco School of Medicine, San Francisco, CA, 94107, USA
| | - Gary M Shaw
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - David K Stevenson
- Department of Pediatrics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Jeffrey C Murray
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa School of Medicine, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | - Kelli K Ryckman
- Department of Epidemiology, University of Iowa, College of Public Health, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
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Amabebe E, Anumba DOC. The Vaginal Microenvironment: The Physiologic Role of Lactobacilli. Front Med (Lausanne) 2018; 5:181. [PMID: 29951482 PMCID: PMC6008313 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2018.00181] [Citation(s) in RCA: 353] [Impact Index Per Article: 58.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
In addition to being a passage for sperm, menstruum, and the baby, the human vagina and its microbiota can influence conception, pregnancy, the mode and timing of delivery, and the risk of acquiring sexually transmitted infections. The physiological status of the vaginal milieu is important for the wellbeing of the host as well as for successful reproduction. High estrogen states, as seen during puberty and pregnancy, promote the preservation of a homeostatic (eubiotic) vaginal microenvironment by stimulating the maturation and proliferation of vaginal epithelial cells and the accumulation of glycogen. A glycogen-rich vaginal milieu is a haven for the proliferation of Lactobacilli facilitated by the production of lactic acid and decreased pH. Lactobacilli and their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory products along with components of the epithelial mucosal barrier provide an effective first line defense against invading pathogens including bacterial vaginosis, aerobic vaginitis-associated bacteria, viruses, fungi and protozoa. An optimal host-microbial interaction is required for the maintenance of eubiosis and vaginal health. This review explores the composition, function and adaptive mechanisms of the vaginal microbiome in health and those disease states in which there is a breach in the host-microbial relationship. The potential impact of vaginal dysbiosis on reproduction is also outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emmanuel Amabebe
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Dilly O C Anumba
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
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Abstract
Preterm birth (PTB) remains a major obstetric healthcare problem and a significant contributor to perinatal morbidity, mortality, and long-term disability. Over the past few decades, the perinatal outcomes of preterm neonates have improved markedly through research and advances in neonatal care, whereas rates of spontaneous PTB have essentially remained static. However, research into causal pathways and new diagnostic and treatment modalities is now bearing fruit and translational initiatives are beginning to impact upon PTB rates. Successful PTB prevention requires a multifaceted approach, combining public health and educational programs, lifestyle modification, access to/optimisation of obstetric healthcare, effective prediction and diagnostic modalities, and the application of effective, targeted interventions. Progress has been made in some of these areas, although there remain areas of controversy and uncertainty. Attention is now being directed to areas where greater gains can be achieved. In this mini-review, we will briefly and selectively review a range of PTB prevention strategies and initiatives where progress has been made and where exciting opportunities await exploitation, evaluation, and implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeff A Keelan
- Division of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Western Australia King Edward Memorial Hospital, Perth, Australia
| | - John P Newnham
- Division of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Western Australia King Edward Memorial Hospital, Perth, Australia
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