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Sugita Y, Kuwabara Y, Katayama A, Matsuda S, Manabe I, Suzuki S, Oishi Y. Characteristic impairment of progesterone response in cultured cervical fibroblasts obtained from patients with refractory cervical insufficiency. Sci Rep 2023; 13:11709. [PMID: 37474547 PMCID: PMC10359315 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-37732-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2022] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Preterm birth (PTB) is the leading cause of neonatal mortality, and reducing the PTB rate is one of the most critical issues in perinatal medicine. Cervical insufficiency (CI), a major cause of PTB, is characterised by premature cervical ripening in the second trimester, followed by recurrent pregnancy loss. Although multiple clinical trials have suggested that progesterone inhibits cervical ripening, no studies have focused on progesterone-induced molecular signalling in CI. Here, we established a primary culture system for human uterine cervical fibroblasts using a sample of patients with refractory innate CI who underwent transabdominal cervical cerclage and patients with low Bishop scores who underwent elective caesarean section as controls. RNA sequencing showed that the progesterone response observed in the control group was impaired in the CI group. This was consistent with the finding that progesterone receptor expression was markedly downregulated in CI. Furthermore, the inhibitory effect of progesterone on lipopolysaccharide-induced inflammatory stimuli was also impaired in CI. These results suggest that abnormal cervical ripening in CI is caused by the downregulation of progesterone signalling at the receptor level, and provide a novel insight into the molecular mechanism of PTB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yosuke Sugita
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Nippon Medical School, 1-1-5 Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8602, Japan
| | - Yoshimitsu Kuwabara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nippon Medical School, 1-1-5 Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8602, Japan.
| | - Akira Katayama
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Nippon Medical School, 1-1-5 Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8602, Japan
| | - Shigeru Matsuda
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Nippon Medical School, 1-1-5 Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8602, Japan
| | - Ichiro Manabe
- Department of Systems Medicine, Chiba University Graduate School of Medicine, 1-8-1 Inohana, Chuo-ku, Chiba, 260-8670, Japan
| | - Shunji Suzuki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nippon Medical School, 1-1-5 Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8602, Japan
| | - Yumiko Oishi
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Nippon Medical School, 1-1-5 Sendagi, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, 113-8602, Japan
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2
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Vidal MS, Lintao RCV, Severino MEL, Tantengco OAG, Menon R. Spontaneous preterm birth: Involvement of multiple feto-maternal tissues and organ systems, differing mechanisms, and pathways. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1015622. [PMID: 36313741 PMCID: PMC9606232 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1015622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Survivors of preterm birth struggle with multitudes of disabilities due to improper in utero programming of various tissues and organ systems contributing to adult-onset diseases at a very early stage of their lives. Therefore, the persistent rates of low birth weight (birth weight < 2,500 grams), as well as rates of neonatal and maternal morbidities and mortalities, need to be addressed. Active research throughout the years has provided us with multiple theories regarding the risk factors, initiators, biomarkers, and clinical manifestations of spontaneous preterm birth. Fetal organs, like the placenta and fetal membranes, and maternal tissues and organs, like the decidua, myometrium, and cervix, have all been shown to uniquely respond to specific exogenous or endogenous risk factors. These uniquely contribute to dynamic changes at the molecular and cellular levels to effect preterm labor pathways leading to delivery. Multiple intervention targets in these different tissues and organs have been successfully tested in preclinical trials to reduce the individual impacts on promoting preterm birth. However, these preclinical trial data have not been effectively translated into developing biomarkers of high-risk individuals for an early diagnosis of the disease. This becomes more evident when examining the current global rate of preterm birth, which remains staggeringly high despite years of research. We postulate that studying each tissue and organ in silos, as how the majority of research has been conducted in the past years, is unlikely to address the network interaction between various systems leading to a synchronized activity during either term or preterm labor and delivery. To address current limitations, this review proposes an integrated approach to studying various tissues and organs involved in the maintenance of normal pregnancy, promotion of normal parturition, and more importantly, contributions towards preterm birth. We also stress the need for biological models that allows for concomitant observation and analysis of interactions, rather than focusing on these tissues and organ in silos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel S. Vidal
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Ryan C. V. Lintao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Mary Elise L. Severino
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Ourlad Alzeus G. Tantengco
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Medicine, University of the Philippines, Manila, Philippines
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
| | - Ramkumar Menon
- Division of Basic Science and Translational Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, Galveston, TX, United States
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3
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Eastman AJ, Noble KN, Pensabene V, Aronoff DM. Leveraging bioengineering to assess cellular functions and communication within human fetal membranes. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2022; 35:2795-2807. [PMID: 32787482 PMCID: PMC7878582 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2020.1802716] [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] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
The fetal membranes enclose the growing fetus and amniotic fluid. Preterm prelabor rupture of fetal membranes is a leading cause of preterm birth. Fetal membranes are composed of many different cell types, both structural and immune. These cells must coordinate functions for tensile strength and membrane integrity to contain the growing fetus and amniotic fluid. They must also balance immune responses to pathogens with maintaining maternal-fetal tolerance. Perturbation of this equilibrium can lead to preterm premature rupture of membranes without labor. In this review, we describe the formation of the fetal membranes to orient the reader, discuss some of the common forms of communication between the cell types of the fetal membranes, and delve into the methods used to tease apart this paracrine signaling within the membranes, including emerging technologies such as organ-on-chip models of membrane immunobiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison J. Eastman
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Kristen N. Noble
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37202 USA
| | - Virginia Pensabene
- School of Electronic and Electrical Engineering, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK,School of Medicine, Leeds Institute of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - David M. Aronoff
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA,Department of Pathology, Microbiology and Immunology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA,Corresponding author: David M. Aronoff, MD, 1161 21st Ave South, A-2200 MCN, Nashville, TN 37232-2582, (615) 322-8972 (tel),
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4
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Padron JG, Norman Ing ND, Ng PK, Kendal-Wright CE. Stretch Causes Cell Stress and the Downregulation of Nrf2 in Primary Amnion Cells. Biomolecules 2022; 12:766. [PMID: 35740891 PMCID: PMC9220942 DOI: 10.3390/biom12060766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Nuclear-factor-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a key transcription factor for the regulation of cellular responses to cellular stress and inflammation, and its expression is significantly lower after spontaneous term labor in human fetal membranes. Pathological induction of inflammation can lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes such as pre-eclampsia, preterm labor, and fetal death. As stretch forces are known to act upon the fetal membranes in utero, we aimed to ascertain the effect of stretch on Nrf2 to increase our understanding of the role of this stimulus on cells of the amnion at term. Our results indicated a significant reduction in Nrf2 expression in stretched isolated human amnion epithelial cells (hAECs) that could be rescued with sulforaphane treatment. Downregulation of Nrf2 as a result of stretch was accompanied with activation of proinflammatory nuclear factor-kB (NF-kB) and increases in LDH activity, ROS, and HMGB1. This work supports stretch as a key modulator of cellular stress and inflammation in the fetal membranes. Our results showed that the modulation of the antioxidant response pathway in the fetal membranes through Nrf2 activation may be a viable approach to improve outcomes in pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Gary Padron
- Anatomy, Biochemistry and Physiology, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA;
- Wayne State School of Medicine, Detroit, MI 48201, USA
| | - Nainoa D. Norman Ing
- Natural Science and Mathematics, Chaminade University of Honolulu, Honolulu, HI 96816, USA; (N.D.N.I.); (P.K.N.)
| | - Po’okela K. Ng
- Natural Science and Mathematics, Chaminade University of Honolulu, Honolulu, HI 96816, USA; (N.D.N.I.); (P.K.N.)
| | - Claire E. Kendal-Wright
- Anatomy, Biochemistry and Physiology, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA;
- Natural Science and Mathematics, Chaminade University of Honolulu, Honolulu, HI 96816, USA; (N.D.N.I.); (P.K.N.)
- Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women’s Health, John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI 96826, USA
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Boros-Rausch A, Shynlova O, Lye SJ. A Broad-Spectrum Chemokine Inhibitor Blocks Inflammation-Induced Myometrial Myocyte-Macrophage Crosstalk and Myometrial Contraction. Cells 2021; 11:cells11010128. [PMID: 35011690 PMCID: PMC8750067 DOI: 10.3390/cells11010128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Prophylactic administration of the broad-spectrum chemokine inhibitor (BSCI) FX125L has been shown to suppress uterine contraction, prevent preterm birth (PTB) induced by Group B Streptococcus in nonhuman primates, and inhibit uterine cytokine/chemokine expression in a murine model of bacterial endotoxin (LPS)-induced PTB. This study aimed to determine the mechanism(s) of BSCI action on human myometrial smooth muscle cells. We hypothesized that BSCI prevents infection-induced contraction of uterine myocytes by inhibiting the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines, the expression of contraction-associated proteins and disruption of myocyte interaction with tissue macrophages. Myometrial biopsies and peripheral blood were collected from women at term (not in labour) undergoing an elective caesarean section. Myocytes were isolated and treated with LPS with/out BSCI; conditioned media was collected; cytokine secretion was analyzed by ELISA; and protein expression was detected by immunoblotting and immunocytochemistry. Functional gap junction formation was assessed by parachute assay. Collagen lattices were used to examine myocyte contraction with/out blood-derived macrophages and BSCI. We found that BSCI inhibited (1) LPS-induced activation of transcription factor NF-kB; (2) secretion of chemokines (MCP-1/CCL2 and IL-8/CXCL8); (3) Connexin43-mediated intercellular connectivity, thereby preventing myocyte–macrophage crosstalk; and (4) myocyte contraction. BSCI represents novel therapeutics for prevention of inflammation-induced PTB in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Boros-Rausch
- Lunenfeld Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, 25 Orde Street, Suite 6-1017, Toronto, ON M5G 1X5, Canada; (A.B.-R.); (S.J.L.)
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
| | - Oksana Shynlova
- Lunenfeld Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, 25 Orde Street, Suite 6-1017, Toronto, ON M5G 1X5, Canada; (A.B.-R.); (S.J.L.)
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-416-586-4800 (ext. 5635); Fax: +1-416-586-5116
| | - Stephen James Lye
- Lunenfeld Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, 25 Orde Street, Suite 6-1017, Toronto, ON M5G 1X5, Canada; (A.B.-R.); (S.J.L.)
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 1A1, Canada
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Singh N, Herbert B, Sooranna G, Shah NM, Das A, Sooranna SR, Johnson MR. Is there an inflammatory stimulus to human term labour? PLoS One 2021; 16:e0256545. [PMID: 34464407 PMCID: PMC8407546 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0256545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Inflammation is thought to play a pivotal role in the onset of term and some forms of preterm labour. Although, we recently found that myometrial inflammation is a consequence rather than a cause of term labour, there are several other reproductive tissues, including amnion, choriodecidua parietalis and decidua basalis, where the inflammatory stimulus to labour may occur. To investigate this, we have obtained amnion, choriodecidual parietalis and decidua basalis samples from women at various stages of pregnancy and spontaneous labour. The inflammatory cytokine profile in each tissue was determine by Bio-Plex Pro® cytokine multiplex assays and quantitative RT-PCR. Active motif assay was used to study transcription activation in the choriodecidua parietalis. Quantitative RT-PCR was use to study the pro-labour genes (PGHS-2, PGDH, OTR and CX43) in all of the tissues at the onset of labour and oxytocin (OT) mRNA expression in the choriodecidual parietalis and decidua basalis. Statistical significance was ascribed to a P value <0.05. In the amnion and choriodecidua parietalis, the mRNA levels of various cytokines decreased from preterm no labour to term no labour samples, but the protein levels were unchanged. The choriodecidua parietalis showed increase in the protein levels of IL-1β and IL-6 in the term early labour samples. In the amnion and decidua basalis, the protein levels of several cytokines rose in term established labour. The multiples of the median derived from the 19-plex cytokine assay were greater in term early labour and term established labour samples from the choriodecidua parietalis, but only in term established labour for myometrium. These data suggest that the inflammatory stimulus to labour may begin in the choriodecidua parietalis, but the absence of any change in prolabour factor mRNA levels suggests that the cytokines may act on the myometrium where we observed changes in transcription factor activation and increases in prolabour gene expression in earlier studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natasha Singh
- Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Bronwen Herbert
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Garvin Sooranna
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Nishel M. Shah
- Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ananya Das
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Suren R. Sooranna
- Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Mark R. Johnson
- Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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Abstract
There is an association between vaginal microbiota dysbiosis and preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM). In PPROM, reduced Lactobacillus spp abundance is linked to the emergence of high-risk vaginal microbiota, close to the time of membrane rupture. Although PPROM itself can change vaginal microbial composition, antibiotic therapy profoundly effects community structure. Erythromycin may have a beneficial effect in women deplete in Lactobacillus spp but damages a healthy microbiome by targeting Lactobacillus spp. Increased rates of chorioamnionitis and early-onset neonatal sepsis are associated with vaginal microbiota dysbiosis close to the time of delivery.
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8
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Changes in cAMP effector predominance are associated with increased oxytocin receptor expression in twin but not infection-associated or idiopathic preterm labour. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0240325. [PMID: 33253216 PMCID: PMC7703985 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0240325] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
We previously reported that at term pregnancy, a decline in myometrial protein kinase A (PKA) activity leads to an exchange protein activated by cyclic AMP (Epac1)-dependent increase in oxytocin receptor (OTR) expression, promoting the onset of labour. Here, we studied the changes in the cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) effector system present in different phenotypes of preterm labour (PTL). Myometrial biopsies obtained from women with phenotypically distinct forms of PTL and the levels of PKA and OTR were examined. Although we found similar changes in the cAMP effector pathway in all forms of PTL, only in the case of twin PTL (T-PTL) was myometrial OTR levels increased in association with these results. Although there were several changes in the mRNA levels of components of the cAMP synthetic pathway, the total myometrial cAMP levels did not change with the onset of any subtype of PTL. With regards to the expression of cAMP-responsive genes, we found that the mRNA levels of 4 of the 5 cAMP-down-regulated genes were increased in T-PTL, similar to our findings in term labour. These data signify that although changes in the cAMP effector system were common to all forms of PTL, only in T-PTL were OTR levels increased. Similarly, the mRNA levels of cAMP-repressed genes were only increased in T-PTL supporting the concept that the decline in PKA levels influences myometrial function driving the onset of T-PTL.
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Goldstein JA, Gallagher K, Beck C, Kumar R, Gernand AD. Maternal-Fetal Inflammation in the Placenta and the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease. Front Immunol 2020; 11:531543. [PMID: 33281808 PMCID: PMC7691234 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.531543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Events in fetal life impact long-term health outcomes. The placenta is the first organ to form and is the site of juxtaposition between the maternal and fetal circulations. Most diseases of pregnancy are caused by, impact, or are reflected in the placenta. The purpose of this review is to describe the main inflammatory processes in the placenta, discuss their immunology, and relate their short- and long-term disease associations. Acute placental inflammation (API), including maternal and fetal inflammatory responses corresponds to the clinical diagnosis of chorioamnionitis and is associated with respiratory and neurodevelopmental diseases. The chronic placental inflammatory pathologies (CPI), include chronic villitis of unknown etiology, chronic deciduitis, chronic chorionitis, eosinophilic T-cell vasculitis, and chronic histiocytic intervillositis. These diseases are less-well studied, but have complex immunology and show mechanistic impacts on the fetal immune system. Overall, much work remains to be done in describing the long-term impacts of placental inflammation on offspring health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffery A. Goldstein
- Department of Pathology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Kelly Gallagher
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, College of Health and Human Development, Penn State University, University Park, PA, United States
| | - Celeste Beck
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, College of Health and Human Development, Penn State University, University Park, PA, United States
| | - Rajesh Kumar
- Section of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital and Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, United States
| | - Alison D. Gernand
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, College of Health and Human Development, Penn State University, University Park, PA, United States
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10
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Abstract
Term labour is a state of physiological inflammation orchestrated by multiple uterine tissues (both fetal and maternal). This physiological inflammation preceding and accompanying labour onset is characterized by an increase in cytokine and chemokine secretion by the fetal membranes, as well as uterine tissues (i.e., decidua and myometrium). Pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines activate circulating maternal peripheral leukocytes as well as the uterine vascular endothelium to permit leukocyte infiltration into the uterus. This inflammatory milieu, in the absence of infection, is required for the initiation of labour as the uterine-infiltrated leukocytes secrete matrix metalloproteinases to induce fetal membrane rupture and cervical ripening as well as various labour mediators, which promote contractions of the myometrium. Myometrial activation at term and the onset of labour contractions are directly related to the changes in the ovarian/placental hormone progesterone and its downstream mediators (i.e., the progesterone receptors, PRA/B), which are also critical for maintenance of pregnancy. Our recent data provides direct evidence in support of local and functional P4 withdrawal in the uterine muscle (myometrium) via the activator protein-1 (AP-1) mediated pathway. This review outlines known mechanisms regulating activation of human labour, including progesterone and cytokine signaling. Understanding of the molecular mechanism of myometrial activation and labour onset could facilitate the development of new therapeutics for high-risk pregnant women to prevent premature uterine activation and preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oksana Shynlova
- Lunenfeld Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Canada; Departments of Physiology and University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Lubna Nadeem
- Lunenfeld Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - Jianhong Zhang
- Lunenfeld Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - Caroline Dunk
- Lunenfeld Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - Stephen Lye
- Lunenfeld Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Canada; Departments of Physiology and University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Menon R, Behnia F, Polettini J, Richardson LS. Novel pathways of inflammation in human fetal membranes associated with preterm birth and preterm pre-labor rupture of the membranes. Semin Immunopathol 2020; 42:431-450. [PMID: 32785751 DOI: 10.1007/s00281-020-00808-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Spontaneous preterm birth (PTB) and preterm pre-labor rupture of the membranes (pPROM) are major pregnancy complications. Although PTB and pPROM have common etiologies, they arise from distinct pathophysiologic pathways. Inflammation is a common underlying mechanism in both conditions. Balanced inflammation is required for fetoplacental growth; however, overwhelming inflammation (physiologic at term and pathologic at preterm) can lead to term and preterm parturition. A lack of effective strategies to control inflammation and reduce the risk of PTB and pPROM suggests that there are several modes of the generation of inflammation which may be dependent on the type of uterine tissue. The avascular fetal membrane (amniochorion), which provides structure, support, and protection to the intrauterine cavity, is one of the key contributors of inflammation. Localized membrane inflammation helps tissue remodeling during pregnancy. Two unique mechanisms that generate balanced inflammation are the progressive development of senescence (aging) and cyclic cellular transitions: epithelial to mesenchymal (EMT) and mesenchymal to epithelial (MET). The intrauterine build-up of oxidative stress at term or in response to risk factors (preterm) can accelerate senescence and promote a terminal state of EMT, resulting in the accumulation of inflammation. Inflammation degrades the matrix and destabilizes membrane function. Inflammatory mediators from damaged membranes are propagated via extracellular vesicles (EV) to maternal uterine tissues and transition quiescent maternal uterine tissues into an active state of labor. Membrane inflammation and its propagation are fetal signals that may promote parturition. This review summarizes the mechanisms of fetal membrane cellular senescence, transitions, and the generation of inflammation that contributes to term and preterm parturitions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramkumar Menon
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Perinatal Research Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine & Perinatal Research, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, MRB 11.138, 301 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX, 77555-1062, USA.
| | - Faranak Behnia
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, McGovern Medical School at the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, UT Health, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Jossimara Polettini
- Universidade Federal da Fronteira Sul, Campus Passo Fundo, Rua Capitão Araujo, 20, Centro, Passo Fundo, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Lauren S Richardson
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Perinatal Research Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine & Perinatal Research, The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston, MRB 11.138, 301 301 University Blvd, Galveston, TX, 77555-1062, USA
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12
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Shennan A, Chandiramani M, Bennett P, David AL, Girling J, Ridout A, Seed PT, Simpson N, Thornton S, Tydeman G, Quenby S, Carter J. MAVRIC: a multicenter randomized controlled trial of transabdominal vs transvaginal cervical cerclage. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2020; 222:261.e1-261.e9. [PMID: 31585096 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2019.09.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2019] [Revised: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 09/16/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vaginal cerclage (a suture around the cervix) commonly is placed in women with recurrent pregnancy loss. These women may experience late miscarriage or extreme preterm delivery, despite being treated with cerclage. Transabdominal cerclage has been advocated after failed cerclage, although its efficacy is unproved by randomized controlled trial. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to compare transabdominal cerclage or high vaginal cerclage with low vaginal cerclage in women with a history of failed cerclage. Our primary outcome was delivery at <32 completed weeks of pregnancy. STUDY DESIGN This was a multicenter randomized controlled trial. Women were assigned randomly (1:1:1) to receive transabdominal cerclage, high vaginal cerclage, or low vaginal cerclage either before conception or at <14 weeks of gestation. RESULTS The data for 111 of 139 women who were recruited and who conceived were analyzed: 39 had transabdominal cerclage; 39 had high vaginal cerclage, and 33 had low vaginal cerclage. Rates of preterm birth at <32 weeks of gestation were significantly lower in women who received transabdominal cerclage compared with low vaginal cerclage (8% [3/39] vs 33% [11/33]; relative risk, 0.23; 95% confidence interval, 0.07-0.76; P=.0157). The number needed to treat to prevent 1 preterm birth was 3.9 (95% confidence interval, 2.32-12.1). There was no difference in preterm birth rates between high and low vaginal cerclage (38% [15/39] vs 33% [11/33]; relative risk, 1.15; 95% confidence interval, 0.62-2.16; P=.81). No neonatal deaths occurred. In an exploratory analysis, women with transabdominal cerclage had fewer fetal losses compared with low vaginal cerclage (3% [1/39] vs 21% [7/33]; relative risk, 0.12; 95% confidence interval, 0.016-0.93; P=.02). The number needed to treat to prevent 1 fetal loss was 5.3 (95% confidence interval, 2.9-26). CONCLUSION Transabdominal cerclage is the treatment of choice for women with failed vaginal cerclage. It is superior to low vaginal cerclage in the reduction of risk of early preterm birth and fetal loss in women with previous failed vaginal cerclage. High vaginal cerclage does not confer this benefit. The numbers needed to treat are sufficiently low to justify transabdominal surgery and cesarean delivery required in this select cohort.
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Myometrial activation: Novel concepts underlying labor. Placenta 2020; 92:28-36. [PMID: 32056784 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2020.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2019] [Revised: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Term labour is a state of physiological inflammation orchestrated by multiple uterine tissues (both fetal and maternal). This physiological inflammation preceding and accompanying labour onset is characterized by an increase in cytokine and chemokine secretion by the fetal membranes, as well as uterine tissues (i.e., decidua and myometrium). Pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines activate circulating maternal peripheral leukocytes as well as the uterine vascular endothelium to permit leukocyte infiltration into the uterus. This inflammatory milieu, in the absence of infection, is required for the initiation of labour as the uterine-infiltrated leukocytes secrete matrix metalloproteinases to induce fetal membrane rupture and cervical ripening as well as various labour mediators, which promote contractions of the myometrium. Myometrial activation at term and the onset of labour contractions are directly related to the changes in the ovarian/placental hormone progesterone and its downstream mediators (i.e., the progesterone receptors, PRA/B), which are also critical for maintenance of pregnancy. Our recent data provides direct evidence in support of local and functional P4 withdrawal in the uterine muscle (myometrium) via the activator protein-1 (AP-1) mediated pathway. This review outlines known mechanisms regulating activation of human labour, including progesterone and cytokine signaling. Understanding of the molecular mechanism of myometrial activation and labour onset could facilitate the development of new therapeutics for high-risk pregnant women to prevent premature uterine activation and preterm birth.
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Barrett DW, John RK, Thrasivoulou C, Mata A, Deprest JA, Becker DL, David AL, Chowdhury TT. Targeting mechanotransduction mechanisms and tissue weakening signals in the human amniotic membrane. Sci Rep 2019; 9:6718. [PMID: 31040291 PMCID: PMC6491562 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-42379-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2018] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Mechanical and inflammatory signals in the fetal membrane play an important role in extracellular matrix (ECM) remodelling in order to dictate the timing of birth. We developed a mechanical model that mimics repetitive stretching of the amniotic membrane (AM) isolated from regions over the placenta (PAM) or cervix (CAM) and examined the effect of cyclic tensile strain (CTS) on mediators involved in mechanotransduction (Cx43, AKT), tissue remodelling (GAGs, elastin, collagen) and inflammation (PGE2, MMPs). In CAM and PAM specimens, the application of CTS increased GAG synthesis, PGE2 release and MMP activity, with concomitant reduction in collagen and elastin content. Co-stimulation with CTS and pharmacological agents that inhibit either Cx43 or AKT, differentially influenced collagen, GAG and elastin in a tissue-dependent manner. SHG confocal imaging of collagen fibres revealed a reduction in SHG intensity after CTS, with regions of disorganisation dependent on tissue location. CTS increased Cx43 and AKT protein and gene expression and the response could be reversed with either CTS, the Cx43 antisense or AKT inhibitor. We demonstrate that targeting Cx43 and AKT prevents strain-induced ECM damage and promotes tissue remodelling mechanisms in the AM. We speculate that a combination of inflammatory and mechanical factors could perturb typical mechanotransduction processes mediated by Cx43 signalling. Cx43 could therefore be a potential therapeutic target to prevent inflammation and preterm premature rupture of the fetal membranes.
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Affiliation(s)
- David W Barrett
- Institute of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London, E1 4NS, UK
| | - Rebecca K John
- Institute of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London, E1 4NS, UK
| | - Christopher Thrasivoulou
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University College London, Gower Street, London, WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Alvaro Mata
- Institute of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London, E1 4NS, UK
| | - Jan A Deprest
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - David L Becker
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, 11 Mandalay Road, Singapore, 308232, Singapore
| | - Anna L David
- Institute for Women's Health, University College London, 86-96 Chenies Mews, London, WC1E 6HX, UK
| | - Tina T Chowdhury
- Institute of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London, E1 4NS, UK.
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Efficacy of progesterone for prevention of preterm birth. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2018; 52:126-136. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2018.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2018] [Accepted: 08/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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16
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Yin Z, He W, Li Y, Li D, Li H, Yang Y, Wei Z, Shen B, Wang X, Cao Y, Khalil RA. Adaptive reduction of human myometrium contractile activity in response to prolonged uterine stretch during term and twin pregnancy. Role of TREK-1 channel. Biochem Pharmacol 2018; 152:252-263. [PMID: 29577872 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2018.03.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Quiescence of myometrium contractile activity allows uterine expansion to accommodate the growing fetus and prevents preterm labor particularly during excessive uterine stretch in multiple pregnancy. However, the mechanisms regulating uterine response to stretch are unclear. We tested the hypothesis that prolonged uterine stretch is associated with decreased myometrium contractile activity via activation of TWIK-related K+ channel (TREK-1). Pregnant women at different gestational age (preterm and term) and uterine stretch (singleton and twin pregnancy) were studied, and uterine strips were isolated for measurement of contractile activity and TREK-1 channel expression/activity. Both oxytocin- and KCl-induced contraction were reduced in term vs preterm pregnancy and in twin vs singleton pregnancy. Oxytocin contraction was reduced in uterine segments exposed to 8 g stretch compared to control tissues under 2 g basal tension. TREK-1 mRNA expression and protein levels were augmented in Singleton-Term vs Singleton-Preterm, and in uterine strips exposed to 8 g stretch. The TREK-1 activator arachidonic acid reduced oxytocin contraction in preterm and term, singleton and twin pregnant uterus. The TREK-1 blocker l-methionine enhanced oxytocin contraction in Singleton-Term and twin pregnant uterus, and reversed the decreases in contraction in uterine strips exposed to prolonged stretch. Carboprost-induced uterine contraction was also reduced by arachidonic acid and enhanced by l-methionine. Thus, myometrium contraction decreases with gestational age and uterine expansion in twin pregnancy. The results suggest that prolonged stretch enhances the expression/activity of TREK-1 channel, leading to decreased myometrium contractile activity and maintained healthy term pregnancy particularly in multiple pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongzhi Yin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Wenzhu He
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yun Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Dan Li
- Department of Scientific Research, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Hongyan Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Yuanyuan Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Zhaolian Wei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Reproductive Medicine Center, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Bing Shen
- Department of Physiology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Xi Wang
- Vascular Surgery Research Laboratories, Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Yunxia Cao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Reproductive Medicine Center, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China; Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, The First Affiliated Hospital, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.
| | - Raouf A Khalil
- Vascular Surgery Research Laboratories, Division of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, Brigham and Women's Hospital, and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.
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17
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Kim SH, Bennett PR, Terzidou V. Advances in the role of oxytocin receptors in human parturition. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2017; 449:56-63. [PMID: 28119132 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.01.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2016] [Revised: 01/16/2017] [Accepted: 01/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin (OT) is a neurohypophysial hormone which has been found to play a central role in the regulation of human parturition. The most established role of oxytocin/oxytocin receptor (OT/OTR) system in human parturition is the initiation of uterine contractions, however, recent evidence have demonstrated that it may have a more complex role including initiation of inflammation, regulation of miRNA expression, as well as mediation of other non-classical oxytocin actions via receptor crosstalk with other G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs). In this review we highlight both established and newly emerging roles of OT/OTR system in human parturition and discuss the expanding potential for OTRs as pharmacological targets in the management of preterm labour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sung Hye Kim
- Imperial College London, Parturition Research Group, Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, Du Cane Road, East Acton, London W12 0NN, UK
| | - Phillip R Bennett
- Imperial College London, Parturition Research Group, Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, Du Cane Road, East Acton, London W12 0NN, UK
| | - Vasso Terzidou
- Imperial College London, Parturition Research Group, Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, Du Cane Road, East Acton, London W12 0NN, UK; Academic Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Imperial College School of Medicine, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, 369 Fulham Road, London SW10 9NH, UK.
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18
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Kendal-Wright CE. Stretching, Mechanotransduction, and Proinflammatory Cytokines in the Fetal Membranes. Reprod Sci 2016; 14:35-41. [DOI: 10.1177/1933719107310763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Claire E. Kendal-Wright
- Developmental and Reproduction Biology, John A. Burns
School of Medicine, and the Pacific Biomedical Research Center, Honolulu,
Hawaii,
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19
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Barrett DW, David AL, Thrasivoulou C, Mata A, Becker DL, Engels AC, Deprest JA, Chowdhury TT. Connexin 43 is overexpressed in human fetal membrane defects after fetoscopic surgery. Prenat Diagn 2016; 36:942-952. [PMID: 27568096 PMCID: PMC5082503 DOI: 10.1002/pd.4917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2016] [Revised: 08/03/2016] [Accepted: 08/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We examined whether surgically induced membrane defects elevate connexin 43 (Cx43) expression in the wound edge of the amniotic membrane (AM) and drives structural changes in collagen that affects healing after fetoscopic surgery. METHOD Cell morphology and collagen microstructure was investigated by scanning electron microscopy and second harmonic generation in fetal membranes taken from women who underwent fetal surgery. Immunofluoresence and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction was used to examine Cx43 expression in control and wound edge AM. RESULTS Scanning electron microscopy showed dense, helical patterns of collagen fibrils in the wound edge of the fetal membrane. This arrangement changed in the fibroblast layer with evidence of collagen fibrils that were highly polarised along the wound edge but not in control membranes. Cx43 was increased by 112.9% in wound edge AM compared with controls (p < 0.001), with preferential distribution in the fibroblast layer compared with the epithelial layer (p < 0.01). In wound edge AM, mesenchymal cells had a flattened morphology, and there was evidence of poor epithelial migration across the defect. Cx43 and COX-2 expression was significantly increased in wound edge AM compared with controls (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION Overexpression of Cx43 in the AM after fetal surgery induces morphological and structural changes in the collagenous matrix that may interfere with normal healing mechanisms. © 2016 The Authors. Prenatal Diagnosis published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- David W Barrett
- Institute of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - Anna L David
- Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
| | | | - Alvaro Mata
- Institute of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | - David L Becker
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
| | - Alex C Engels
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jan A Deprest
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Tina T Chowdhury
- Institute of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Materials Science, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK.
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20
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Li H, Zhou J, Wei X, Chen R, Geng J, Zheng R, Chai J, Li F, Jiang S. miR-144 and targets, c-fos and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2), modulate synthesis of PGE2 in the amnion during pregnancy and labor. Sci Rep 2016; 6:27914. [PMID: 27297132 PMCID: PMC4906292 DOI: 10.1038/srep27914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2016] [Accepted: 05/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Labor is initiated as a result of hormonal changes that are induced by the activation of the inflammatory response and a series of biochemical events. The amnion, which is the primary source of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), plays an important role in the process of labor. In the present study, we uncovered a pathway in which c-fos, cyclooxygenase-2 (COX2) and miR-144 function as hormonal modulators in the amnions of pregnant mice and humans. miR-144 down-regulated the synthesis of PGE2 during pregnancy by directly and indirectly inhibiting COX2 expression and by directly inhibiting the expression of c-fos, a transcriptional activator of COX2 and miR-144. Estrogen (E2) activated c-fos, thus promoting the expression of miR-144 and COX2 during labor. However, the increase in COX2 resulted in the partial inhibition of COX2 expression by miR-144, thereby slightly reducing the secretion of PGE2. These observations suggest that miR-144 inhibits PGE2 secretion by section to prevent the initiation of premature labor. Up-regulated expression of miR-144, c-fos and COX2 was also observed both in preterm mice and in mice undergoing normal labor. In summary, miR-144, c-fos and COX2 play important roles in regulating PGE2 secretion in the amnion during pregnancy and labor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huanan Li
- Key Laboratory of Swine Genetics and Breeding of Agricultural Ministry and Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiawei Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Swine Genetics and Breeding of Agricultural Ministry and Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiajie Wei
- Key Laboratory of Swine Genetics and Breeding of Agricultural Ministry and Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Ran Chen
- Key Laboratory of Swine Genetics and Breeding of Agricultural Ministry and Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Junnan Geng
- Key Laboratory of Swine Genetics and Breeding of Agricultural Ministry and Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Rong Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Swine Genetics and Breeding of Agricultural Ministry and Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Jin Chai
- Key Laboratory of Swine Genetics and Breeding of Agricultural Ministry and Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Fenge Li
- Key Laboratory of Swine Genetics and Breeding of Agricultural Ministry and Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China
| | - Siwen Jiang
- Key Laboratory of Swine Genetics and Breeding of Agricultural Ministry and Key Laboratory of Agricultural Animal Genetics, Breeding and Reproduction of Ministry of Education, College of Animal Science and Technology, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan 430070, People's Republic of China.,The Cooperative Innovation Center for Sustainable Pig Production, Wuhan 430070, China People's Republic of China
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21
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Hudson CA, McArdle CA, López Bernal A. Steroid receptor co-activator interacting protein (SIP) mediates EGF-stimulated expression of the prostaglandin synthase COX2 and prostaglandin release in human myometrium. Mol Hum Reprod 2016; 22:512-25. [DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaw031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2016] [Accepted: 05/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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22
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Adams Waldorf KM, Singh N, Mohan AR, Young RC, Ngo L, Das A, Tsai J, Bansal A, Paolella L, Herbert BR, Sooranna SR, Gough GM, Astley C, Vogel K, Baldessari AE, Bammler TK, MacDonald J, Gravett MG, Rajagopal L, Johnson MR. Uterine overdistention induces preterm labor mediated by inflammation: observations in pregnant women and nonhuman primates. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2015; 213:830.e1-830.e19. [PMID: 26284599 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2015.08.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2015] [Revised: 07/13/2015] [Accepted: 08/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Uterine overdistention is thought to induce preterm labor in women with twin and multiple pregnancies, but the pathophysiology remains unclear. We investigated for the first time the pathogenesis of preterm birth associated with rapid uterine distention in a pregnant nonhuman primate model. STUDY DESIGN A nonhuman primate model of uterine overdistention was created using preterm chronically catheterized pregnant pigtail macaques (Macaca nemestrina) by inflation of intraamniotic balloons (N = 6), which were compared to saline controls (N = 5). Cesarean delivery was performed due to preterm labor or at experimental end. Microarray, quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction, Luminex (Austin, TX), and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay were used to measure messenger RNA (mRNA) and/or protein levels from monkey (amniotic fluid, myometrium, maternal plasma) and human (amniocytes, amnion, myometrium) tissues. Statistical analysis employed analysis of covariance and Wilcoxon rank sum. Biomechanical forces were calculated using the law of Laplace. RESULTS Preterm labor occurred in 3 of 6 animals after balloon inflation and correlated with greater balloon volume and uterine wall stress. Significant elevations of inflammatory cytokines and prostaglandins occurred following uterine overdistention in an "inflammatory pulse" that correlated with preterm labor (interleukin [IL]-1β, tumor necrosis factor [TNF]-α, IL-6, IL-8, CCL2, prostaglandin E2, prostaglandin F2α, all P < .05). A similar inflammatory response was observed in amniocytes in vitro following mechanical stretch (IL1β, IL6, and IL8 mRNA multiple time points, P < .05), in amnion of women with polyhydramnios (IL6 and TNF mRNA, P < .05) and in amnion (TNF-α) and myometrium of women with twins in early labor (IL6, IL8, CCL2, all P < .05). Genes differentially expressed in the nonhuman primate after balloon inflation and in women with polyhydramnios and twins are involved in tissue remodeling and muscle growth. CONCLUSION Uterine overdistention by inflation of an intraamniotic balloon is associated with an inflammatory pulse that precedes and correlates with preterm labor. Our results indicate that inflammation is an early event after a mechanical stress on the uterus and leads to preterm labor when the stress is sufficiently great. Further, we find evidence of uterine tissue remodeling and muscle growth as a common, perhaps compensatory, response to uterine distension.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Natasha Singh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Aarthi R Mohan
- Department of Cancer and Surgery, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Roger C Young
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN
| | - Lisa Ngo
- Department of Pediatric Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA
| | - Ananya Das
- Department of Cancer and Surgery, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jesse Tsai
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Aasthaa Bansal
- Pharmaceutical Outcomes Research and Policy Program, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Louis Paolella
- School of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Bronwen R Herbert
- Department of Cancer and Surgery, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Suren R Sooranna
- Department of Cancer and Surgery, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - G Michael Gough
- Washington National Primate Research Center, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Cliff Astley
- Washington National Primate Research Center, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Keith Vogel
- Washington National Primate Research Center, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Audrey E Baldessari
- Washington National Primate Research Center, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Theodor K Bammler
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - James MacDonald
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA
| | - Michael G Gravett
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA; Global Alliance to Prevent Prematurity and Stillbirth, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA
| | - Lakshmi Rajagopal
- Department of Pediatrics and Global Health, University of Washington, Seattle, WA; Department of Pediatric Infectious Diseases and Microbiology, Seattle Children's Research Institute, Seattle, WA
| | - Mark R Johnson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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Abstract
Pre-induction cervical ripening is an important part of the labor induction process in women with an unfavorable cervix. This can be achieved either by pharmacologic or mechanical methods of cervical ripening. While the Foley catheter is the most commonly used mechanical method for labor induction, other mechanical methods are also available. This article reviews the safety profiles of osmotic dilators, extra-amniotic saline infusion, double-balloon catheters, and also compares their efficacy to that of other mechanical and pharmacologic cervical ripening methods. While mechanical methods have been shown to be safe and effective for cervical ripening, none of these alternatives has been shown to be superior to the Foley catheter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle Durie
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, FL; Department of Obestetrics and Gynecology, Lehigh Valley Health Network, Allentown, PA.
| | - Aminatu Lawal
- Department of Obestetrics and Gynecology, Lehigh Valley Health Network, Allentown, PA
| | - Phillip Zegelbone
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine, Tampa, FL
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24
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Cookson VJ, Waite SL, Heath PR, Hurd PJ, Gandhi SV, Chapman NR. Binding loci of RelA-containing nuclear factor-kappaB dimers in promoter regions of PHM1-31 myometrial smooth muscle cells. Mol Hum Reprod 2015; 21:865-83. [DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gav051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2015] [Accepted: 09/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
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Wang J, Zhang Y, Zhang N, Wang C, Herrler T, Li Q. An updated review of mechanotransduction in skin disorders: transcriptional regulators, ion channels, and microRNAs. Cell Mol Life Sci 2015; 72:2091-106. [PMID: 25681865 PMCID: PMC11113187 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-015-1853-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2014] [Revised: 01/22/2015] [Accepted: 02/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The skin is constantly exposed and responds to a wide range of biomechanical cues. The mechanobiology of skin has already been known and applied by clinicians long before the fundamental molecular mechanisms of mechanotransduction are elucidated. MATERIALS AND METHODS Despite increasing knowledge on the mediators of biomechanical signaling such as mitogen-associated protein kinases, Rho GTPases or FAK-ERK pathways, the key elements of mechano-responses transcription factors, and mechano-sensors remain unclear. Recently, canonical biochemical components of Hippo and Wnt signaling pathway YAP and β-catenin were found to exhibit undefined mechanical sensitivity. Mechanical forces were identified to be the dominant regulators of YAP/TAZ activity in a multicellular context. Furthermore, different voltage or ligand sensitive ion channels in the cell membrane exhibited their mechanical sensitivity as mechano-sensors. Additionally, a large number of microRNAs have been confirmed to regulate cellular behavior and contribute to various skin disorders under mechanical stimuli. Mechanosensitive (MS) microRNAs could not only be activated by distinct mechanical force pattern, but also responsively target MS sensors such as e-cadherin and cytoskeleton constituent RhoA. CONCLUSION Thus, a comprehensive understanding of this regulatory network of cutaneous mechanotransduction will facilitate the development of novel approaches to wound healing, hypertrophic scar formation, skin regeneration, and the progression or initiation of skin diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Shanghai 9th People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China,
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Rubens CE, Sadovsky Y, Muglia L, Gravett MG, Lackritz E, Gravett C. Prevention of preterm birth: Harnessing science to address the global epidemic. Sci Transl Med 2014; 6:262sr5. [DOI: 10.1126/scitranslmed.3009871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 109] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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Chowdhury B, David AL, Thrasivoulou C, Becker DL, Bader DL, Chowdhury TT. Tensile strain increased COX-2 expression and PGE2 release leading to weakening of the human amniotic membrane. Placenta 2014; 35:1057-64. [PMID: 25280972 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2014.09.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2014] [Revised: 07/14/2014] [Accepted: 09/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is evidence that premature rupture of the fetal membrane at term/preterm is a result of stretch and tissue weakening due to enhanced prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) production. However, the effect of tensile strain on inflammatory mediators and the stretch sensitive protein connexin-43 (Cx43) has not been examined. We determined whether the inflammatory environment influenced tissue composition and response of the tissue to tensile strain. METHODS Human amniotic membranes isolated from the cervix (CAM) or placenta regions (PAM) were examined by second harmonic generation to identify collagen orientation and subjected to tensile testing to failure. In separate experiments, specimens were subjected to cyclic tensile strain (2%, 1 Hz) for 24 h. Specimens were examined for Cx43 by immunofluorescence confocal microscopy and expression of COX-2 and Cx43 by RT-qPCR. PGE2, collagen, elastin and glycosaminoglycan (GAG) levels were analysed by biochemical assay. RESULTS Values for tensile strength were significantly higher in PAM than CAM with mechanical parameters dependent on collagen orientation. Gene expression for Cx43 and COX-2 was enhanced by tensile strain leading to increased PGE2 release and GAG levels in PAM and CAM when compared to unstrained controls. In contrast, collagen and elastin content was reduced by tensile strain in PAM and CAM. DISCUSSION Fibre orientation has a significant effect on amniotic strength. Tensile strain increased Cx43/COX-2 expression and PGE2 release resulting in tissue softening mediated by enhanced GAG levels and a reduction in collagen/elastin content. CONCLUSION A combination of inflammatory and mechanical factors may disrupt amniotic membrane biomechanics and matrix composition.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Chowdhury
- Institute for Women's Health, University College London, 86-96 Chenies Mews, London WC1E 6HX, UK
| | - A L David
- Institute for Women's Health, University College London, 86-96 Chenies Mews, London WC1E 6HX, UK
| | - C Thrasivoulou
- Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, UCL, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - D L Becker
- Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine, Nanyang Technological University, 11, Mandalay Road, Singapore
| | - D L Bader
- Institute of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Material Science, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, UK; Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
| | - T T Chowdhury
- Institute of Bioengineering, School of Engineering and Material Science, Queen Mary University of London, Mile End Road, London E1 4NS, UK.
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Differential expression of AP-1 proteins in human myometrium after spontaneous term labour onset. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2014; 177:100-5. [PMID: 24784710 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2014.04.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2014] [Revised: 03/17/2014] [Accepted: 04/08/2014] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aims of this study were (i) to determine the localisation of activator protein (AP)-1 family members (cFos, FosB, cJun, JunB and JunD) in human myometrium; and (ii) to determine the effect of human term labour on the expression of AP-1 family of transcription factors in myometrium. STUDY DESIGN This localised the AP-1 family members cFos, FosB, cJun, JunB and JunD in human myometrium was performed by immunohistochemistry. The effect of term labour on the expression of these family members at the mRNA and protein level was assessed by qRT-PCR and Western blotting, respectively. The effect of pro-inflammatory stimuli on AP-1 transcriptional activity was assessed using a luciferase assay in primary human myometrial cells. RESULTS Immunohistochemical expression of cFos, FosB, cJun, JunB and JunD were all present in human myometrial tissue and displayed cytoplasmic staining. FosB and JunD also displayed nuclear staining. Term labour was associated with an increase in cFos and JunB mRNA and protein expression. On the other hand, JunD mRNA and protein expression was decreased with labour. FosB mRNA was increased with labour, but there was no change at the protein level. There was no change in cJun mRNA or protein expression. AP-1 transcriptional activity was increased in human myometrial cells by the pro-inflammatory cytokine TNF-α. There was, however, no effect of the bacterial products lipopolysaccharide (LPS; TLR4 ligand), iE-DAP (NOD1 ligand), MDP (NOD2 ligand), FSL-1 (TLR2 ligand) or flagellin (TLR5 ligand) on AP-1 transcriptional activity. CONCLUSION This study shows that human labour is associated with changes in AP-1 family members. Further studies are required to determine the exact role of the AP-1 family members in myometrium.
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MacIntyre DA, Lee YS, Migale R, Herbert BR, Waddington SN, Peebles D, Hagberg H, Johnson MR, Bennett PR. Activator protein 1 is a key terminal mediator of inflammation-induced preterm labor in mice. FASEB J 2014; 28:2358-68. [PMID: 24497579 DOI: 10.1096/fj.13-247783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Activation of uterine inflammatory pathways leads to preterm labor (PTL), associated with high rates of neonatal mortality and morbidity. The transcription factors nuclear factor κB (NFκB) and activator protein 1 (AP-1) regulate key proinflammatory and procontractile genes involved in normal labor and PTL. Here we show that NFκB activation normally occurs in the mouse myometrium at gestation day E18, prior to labor, whereas AP-1 and JNK activation occurs at labor onset. Where labor was induced using the progesterone receptor antagonist RU486, NFkB and AP-1/JNK activation both occurred at the time of labor (20 h compared to 60 h in DMSO-treated controls). Using an LPS (Escherichia coli: serotype O111)-induced PTL model that selectively activates AP-1 but not NFkB, we show that myometrial AP-1 activation drives production of cytokines (Il-6, Il-8, and Il-1β), metalloproteinases (Mmp3 and Mmp10), and procontractile proteins (Cox-2 and Cx43) resulting in PTL after 7 h. Protein levels of CX43 and IL-1β, and IL-1β cleavage, were increased following LPS-induced activation of AP-1. Inhibition of JNK by SP600125 (30 mg/kg) delayed PTL by 6 h (7.5 vs. 13.5 h P<0.05). Our data reveal that NFκB activation is not a functional requirement for infection/inflammation-induced preterm labor and that AP-1 activation is sufficient to drive inflammatory pathways that cause PTL.
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Affiliation(s)
- David A MacIntyre
- 2Imperial College Parturition Research Group, Institute of Reproduction and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, London, W12 0NN, UK.
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Dietary flavonoids as therapeutics for preterm birth: luteolin and kaempferol suppress inflammation in human gestational tissues in vitro. OXIDATIVE MEDICINE AND CELLULAR LONGEVITY 2013; 2013:485201. [PMID: 23840918 PMCID: PMC3687483 DOI: 10.1155/2013/485201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2013] [Accepted: 05/20/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Infection/inflammation is commonly associated with preterm birth (PTB), initiating uterine contractions and rupture of fetal membranes. Proinflammatory cytokines induce matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) that degrade the extracellular matrix (ECM) and prostaglandins which initiate uterine contractions. Nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) and activator-protein- (AP-)1 have key roles in the formation of these prolabour mediators. In nongestational tissues, dietary flavonoids such as luteolin and kaempferol inhibit NF-κB, AP-1, and their downstream targets. The aim of this study was to determine if luteolin and kaempferol reduce infection-induced prolabour mediators in human gestational tissues. Fetal membranes were incubated with LPS, and primary amnion cells and myometrial cells were incubated with IL-1β in the absence or presence of luteolin or kaempferol. Luteolin and kaempferol significantly reduced LPS-induced secretion of proinflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and IL-8) and prostaglandins (PGE2 and PGF2α) in fetal membranes, IL-1β-induced COX-2 gene expression and prostaglandin production in myometrium, and IL-1β-induced MMP-9 activity in amnion and myometrial cells. Luteolin and kaempferol decreased IL-1β-induced NF-κB p65 DNA binding activity and nuclear c-Jun expression. In conclusion, luteolin and kaempferol inhibit prolabour mediators in human gestational tissues. Given the central role of inflammation in provoking preterm labour, phytophenols may be a therapeutic approach to reduce the incidence of PTB.
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Increased expression of sphingosine kinase in the amnion during labor. Placenta 2013; 34:353-9. [PMID: 23462226 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2013.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2012] [Revised: 01/29/2013] [Accepted: 01/30/2013] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), a bioactive lipid, has been reported to regulate inflammation processes. The onset of labor is thought to be related to inflammation. We therefore hypothesized that S1P might be involved in the onset of labor. METHODS The expression of sphingosine kinase (SPHK)-1, which produces S1P, and S1P lyase (SPL)-1, which irreversibly inactivates S1P, were examined in the fetal membranes. The expression levels were compared between amnions from cases of elective Caesarean deliveries (pre-labor) and those from vaginal deliveries (post-labor). In primary cultured human amnion cells, the expression levels of prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase (PTGS)-2 were examined in the presence or absence of S1P treatment. RESULTS SPHK-1 and SPL-1 were both expressed in the amnion. The expression of SPHK-1 in the post-labor amnions increased compared with that in the pre-labor amnions. The expression of PTGS-2, a key regulator of labor, also increased in the post-labor amnion. However, the SPL-1 expression in the pre-labor amnion was not significantly different from that in the post-labor amnion. S1P1-3 and 5, which were coupled with Gi protein, were consistently found in the amnion cells. The treatment with S1P increased the expression of PTGS-2, and this was completely suppressed by a Gi inhibitor in the amnion cells. DISCUSSION We are herein provide the first evidence of increased SPHK-1 expression in post-labor amnions, and that S1P increases the PTGS-2 expression in amnion cells. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that S1P might play a role in the onset of labor via the induction of PTGS-2.
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Zhao Y, Koga K, Osuga Y, Izumi G, Takamura M, Harada M, Hirata T, Hirota Y, Yoshino O, Inoue S, Fujii T, Kozuma S. Cyclic stretch augments production of neutrophil chemokines and matrix metalloproteinases-1 (MMP-1) from human decidual cells, and the production was reduced by progesterone. Am J Reprod Immunol 2013; 69:454-62. [PMID: 23418737 DOI: 10.1111/aji.12092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2012] [Accepted: 01/15/2013] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of mechanical stretch caused by uterine contraction and progesterone (P₄) on decidual cells (DC), neutrophil chemokines, and MMP-1 expression. METHOD OF STUDY DC were cultured, and cyclic stretch was applied using a computer-operated cell stretch system. Interleukin (IL)-8, growth-regulated oncogene (GRO) α, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1, and mRNA and/or protein expression/activity was measured using RT-PCR and ELISA. Neutrophil chemotactic activity in conditioned media was evaluated using migration assays. The effect of P₄ was also studied. RESULTS Cyclic mechanical stretch increased IL-8, GROα, mRNA and protein, and MMP-1 production and activity level. Supernatant from stretched cells induced neutrophil chemotactic activity significantly. P₄ suppressed the effect of stretch. CONCLUSION The current study demonstrates that cyclic mechanical stretch stimulates the production of neutrophil chemokines and MMP-1 from human decidual cells, and the production was reduced by progesterone. These findings suggest that decidual cells are responding to mechanical and endocrine signals and induce biochemical factors and thereby contribute to the regulation of human labor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin Zhao
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Tokyo, Japan
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Webster SJ, Waite SL, Cookson VJ, Warren A, Khan R, Gandhi SV, Europe-Finner GN, Chapman NR. Regulation of GTP-binding protein (Gαs) expression in human myometrial cells: a role for tumor necrosis factor in modulating Gαs promoter acetylation by transcriptional complexes. J Biol Chem 2013; 288:6704-16. [PMID: 23297421 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m112.440602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The onset of parturition is associated with a number of proinflammatory mediators that are themselves regulated by the nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) family of transcription factors. In this context, we previously reported that the RelA NF-κB subunit represses transcription and mRNA expression of the proquiescent Gαs gene in human myometrial cells following stimulation with the proinflammatory cytokine TNF. In the present study, we initially defined the functional consequence of this on myometrial contractility. Here we show that, contrary to our initial expectations, TNF did not induce myometrial contractility but did inhibit the relaxation produced by the histone deacetylase inhibitor trichostatin A, an effect that in turn was abolished by the NF-κB inhibitor N(4)-[2-(4-phenoxyphenyl)ethyl]-4,6-quinazolinediamine. This result suggested a role for TNF in regulating Gαs expression via activating NF-κB and modifying histone acetylation associated with the promoter region of the gene. In this context, we show that the -837 to -618 region of the endogenous Gαs promoter is occupied by cAMP-response element-binding protein (CREB), Egr-1, and Sp1 transcription factors and that CREB-binding protein (CBP) transcriptional complexes form within this region where they induce histone acetylation, resulting in increased Gαs expression. TNF, acting via NF-κB, did not change the levels of CREB, Sp1, or Egr-1 binding to the Gαs promoter, but it induced a significant reduction in the level of CBP. This was associated with increased levels of histone deacetylase-1 and surprisingly an increase in H4K8 acetylation. The latter is discussed herein.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steve J Webster
- Academic Unit of Reproductive and Developmental Medicine, Department of Human Metabolism, University of Sheffield, Level 4, Jessop Wing, Tree Root Walk, Sheffield S10 2SF, United Kingdom
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Chen L, Sooranna SR, Lei K, Kandola M, Bennett PR, Liang Z, Grammatopoulos D, Johnson MR. Cyclic AMP increases COX-2 expression via mitogen-activated kinase in human myometrial cells. J Cell Mol Med 2012; 16:1447-60. [PMID: 21854542 PMCID: PMC3823214 DOI: 10.1111/j.1582-4934.2011.01413.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Cyclic AMP (cAMP) is the archetypal smooth muscle relaxant, mediating the effects of many hormones and drugs. However, recently PGI2, acting via cAMP/PKA, was found to increase contraction-associated protein expression in myometrial cells and to promote oxytocin-driven myometrial contractility. Cyclo-oxygenase-2 (COX-2) is the rate-limiting enzyme in prostaglandin synthesis, which is critical to the onset and progression of human labour. We have investigated the impact of cAMP on myometrial COX-2 expression, synthesis and activity. Three cAMP agonists (8-bromo-cAMP, forskolin and rolipram) increased COX-2 mRNA expression and further studies confirmed that this was associated with COX-2 protein synthesis and activity (increased PGE2 and PGI2 in culture supernatant) in primary cultures of human myometrial cells. These effects were neither reproduced by specific agonists nor inhibited by specific inhibitors of known cAMP-effectors (PKA, EPAC and AMPK). We then used shRNA to knockdown the same effectors and another recently described cAMP-effector PDZ-GEF1-2, without changing the response to cAMP. We found that MAPK activation mediated the cAMP effects on COX-2 expression and that PGE2 acts through EP-2 to activate MAPK and increase COX-2. These data provide further evidence in support of a dual role for cAMP in the regulation of myometrial function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Chen
- Academic Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Imperial College School of Medicine, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, UK
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Li X, Gong X, Zhu L, Leng J, Fan Q, Sun D, Lang J, Fan Y. Stretch magnitude- and frequency-dependent cyclooxygenase 2 and prostaglandin E2 up-regulation in human endometrial stromal cells: Possible implications in endometriosis. Exp Biol Med (Maywood) 2012; 237:1350-8. [DOI: 10.1258/ebm.2012.012060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis, with a prevalence rate ranging from 6% to 10%, is the major contributor to pelvic pain and subfertility, and considerably reduces the quality of life in affected women. However, the pathogenesis of this disease remains largely unknown. The present study aimed to uncover the role of hyperperistalsis in the pathogenesis of endometriosis, by exploring the response of human endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) to the cyclic stretch in vitro. ESCs isolated from 18 different endometrium biopsies undergoing hysterectomy for myoma were subjected to uniaxial cyclic stretches with different magnitude and frequency using the Uniaxial Tension System. Expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and microsomal prostaglandin E2 synthase-1 (mPGES-1) in stretched and unstretched ESCs were assessed by realtime quantitative polymerase chain reaction and Western blot. Production of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) in the culture medium was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The cyclic stretch mimicking hyperperistalsis in endometriosis (5% elongation at 4 cycles/min) stimulated quick up-regulations of COX-2 and mPGES-1 simultaneously on both transcriptional and translational levels, and delayed PGE2 overproduction was also noted in ESCs. As the stretch magnitude or frequency increased, so did overexpression of COX-2 and PGE2 ( P < 0.05). By contrast, the cyclic stretch mimicking physiological peristalsis (3% elongation at 2 cycles/min) did not induce significant COX-2, mPGES-1 or PGE2production within 12 h. Both COX-2 and mPEGS-1 are PGE2 synthases, and the aberrant COX-2 and PGE2 production play important roles in the pathogenesis of endometriosis. Therefore, the present findings revealed that increased stretch stimuli from the hyperperistalsis of endometriosis were capable of causing the aberrant COX-2 and PGE2 expression in the endometrium by mechanotransduction, in a magnitude and frequency-dependent manner. It implied possible roles of hyperperistalsis in the pathogenesis of endometriosis, particularly in the view of COX-2 and PGE2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaochuan Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College,1 Shuaifuyuan Wangfujing, Dongcheng 100730
| | - Xianghui Gong
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of Ministry of Education, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, XueYuan Road No. 37, Haidian District 100191, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Lan Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College,1 Shuaifuyuan Wangfujing, Dongcheng 100730
| | - Jinhua Leng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College,1 Shuaifuyuan Wangfujing, Dongcheng 100730
| | - Qingbo Fan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College,1 Shuaifuyuan Wangfujing, Dongcheng 100730
| | - Dawei Sun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College,1 Shuaifuyuan Wangfujing, Dongcheng 100730
| | - Jinghe Lang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College,1 Shuaifuyuan Wangfujing, Dongcheng 100730
| | - Yubo Fan
- Key Laboratory for Biomechanics and Mechanobiology of Ministry of Education, School of Biological Science and Medical Engineering, Beihang University, XueYuan Road No. 37, Haidian District 100191, Beijing, People's Republic of China
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MAPK and AP-1 proteins are increased in term pre-labour fetal membranes overlying the cervix: Regulation of enzymes involved in the degradation of fetal membranes. Placenta 2011; 32:1016-25. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2011.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2011] [Revised: 09/09/2011] [Accepted: 09/19/2011] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Kim SY, Romero R, Tarca AL, Bhatti G, Lee J, Chaiworapongsa T, Hassan SS, Kim CJ. miR-143 regulation of prostaglandin-endoperoxidase synthase 2 in the amnion: implications for human parturition at term. PLoS One 2011; 6:e24131. [PMID: 21915288 PMCID: PMC3168490 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0024131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2011] [Accepted: 08/01/2011] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The human amnion plays a pivotal role in parturition. Two of its compartments, the placental amnion and the reflected amnion, have distinct transcriptome and are functionally coordinated for parturition. This study was conducted to determine the microRNA (miRNA) expression pattern and its significance in the placental amnion and the reflected amnion in association with labor at term. Methodology/Principal Findings MicroRNA microarray, real-time quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR), and miRNA in situ hybridization analyses of the placental amnion and the reflected amnion (n = 20) obtained at term were conducted. Luciferase assay, transfection, and qRT-PCR analyses of primary amnion epithelial cells (AECs) and amnion mesenchymal cells (AMCs) were performed. MicroRNA microarray analysis demonstrated differential expression of 32 miRNAs between the placental amnion and the reflected amnion after labor. Thirty-one (97%) miRNAs, which included miR-143 and miR-145, a cardiovascular-specific miRNA cluster, were down-regulated in the reflected amnion. Analyses of miR-143 and miR-145 by qRT-PCR confirmed microarray results, and further demonstrated their decreased expression in the reflected amnion with labor. Interestingly, expression of miR-143 and miR-145 was higher in AMCs than in AECs (p<0.05). Luciferase assay and transfection confirmed miR-143 binding to 3′ UTR of prostaglandin-endoperoxidase synthase 2 (PTGS2) mRNA and miR-143 regulation of PTGS2 in AMCs. Conclusions We report region-specific amniotic microRNAome and miR-143 regulation of PTGS2 in the context of human labor at term for the first time. The findings indicate that miRNA-mediated post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression machinery in the amnion plays an important role in the compartments (placental amnion vs reflected amnion) and in a cell type-specific manner (AECs vs AMCs) for parturition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sun Young Kim
- Perinatology Research Branch, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development/National Institutes of Health/Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
- Perinatology Research Branch, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development/National Institutes of Health/Department of Health and Human Services, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Roberto Romero
- Perinatology Research Branch, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development/National Institutes of Health/Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
- Perinatology Research Branch, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development/National Institutes of Health/Department of Health and Human Services, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Adi L. Tarca
- Perinatology Research Branch, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development/National Institutes of Health/Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
- Perinatology Research Branch, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development/National Institutes of Health/Department of Health and Human Services, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Computer Science, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Gaurav Bhatti
- Perinatology Research Branch, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development/National Institutes of Health/Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
- Perinatology Research Branch, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development/National Institutes of Health/Department of Health and Human Services, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - JoonHo Lee
- Perinatology Research Branch, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development/National Institutes of Health/Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
- Perinatology Research Branch, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development/National Institutes of Health/Department of Health and Human Services, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Tinnakorn Chaiworapongsa
- Perinatology Research Branch, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development/National Institutes of Health/Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
- Perinatology Research Branch, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development/National Institutes of Health/Department of Health and Human Services, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Sonia S. Hassan
- Perinatology Research Branch, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development/National Institutes of Health/Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
- Perinatology Research Branch, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development/National Institutes of Health/Department of Health and Human Services, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
| | - Chong Jai Kim
- Perinatology Research Branch, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development/National Institutes of Health/Department of Health and Human Services, Bethesda, Maryland, United States of America
- Perinatology Research Branch, National Institute of Child Health and Human Development/National Institutes of Health/Department of Health and Human Services, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
- Department of Pathology, Wayne State University School of Medicine, Detroit, Michigan, United States of America
- * E-mail:
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38
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Role of heme oxygenase-1 in inflammatory response induced by mechanical stretch in synovial cells. Inflamm Res 2011; 60:861-7. [DOI: 10.1007/s00011-011-0346-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2011] [Revised: 03/29/2011] [Accepted: 05/05/2011] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
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Mitchell C, Johnson R, Bisits A, Hirst J, Zakar T. PTGS2 (prostaglandin endoperoxide synthase-2) expression in term human amnion in vivo involves rapid mRNA turnover, polymerase-II 5'-pausing, and glucocorticoid transrepression. Endocrinology 2011; 152:2113-22. [PMID: 21385935 DOI: 10.1210/en.2010-1327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The in vivo role of glucocorticoids in controlling prostaglandin endoperoxide synthase-2 (PTGS2) expression in the human amnion is unclear despite extensive studies using in vitro models. We addressed this issue by determining PTGS2 mRNA levels and gene transcriptional activity, RNA polymerase-II (pol-II) binding, pol-II C-terminal domain (CTD) phosphorylation, histone acetylation, and histone methylation at the PTGS2 gene in fresh amnion and in amnion explants incubated with dexamethasone for 24 h after delivery, when adaptation from in vivo to in vitro conditions occurred. PTGS2 mRNA turnover changed during incubation involving the initial rapid decrease and subsequent rebound of the transcription rate and stabilization of mRNA. pol-II accumulated in the 5'-region of the gene, which indicated postinitiation pausing. pol-II binding, 5'-accumulation, C-terminal domain Ser-5 and Ser-2 phosphorylation, and histone acetylation decreased rapidly and did not reverse during the transcriptional rebound, suggesting that the transcriptional mechanism altered in vitro. Dexamethasone decreased PTGS2 gene activity and mRNA levels. Glucocorticoid receptor-α (GRα) was bound to the PTGS2 promoter but did not affect pol-II recruitment, pausing, or the epigenetic marks. GRα binding, however, decreased initiating (Ser-5) and elongating (Ser-2) pol-II phosphorylation. The ability of the PTGS2 promoter to bind GRα in response to dexamethasone diminished during incubation. We conclude that PTGS2 mRNA turnover is accelerated in vivo, but the underlying mechanisms are not sustained beyond 24 h in explants. Glucocorticoids chronically transrepress PTGS2 gene activity in vivo in part by interfering with transcription initiation and elongation. Glucocorticoid transrepression of PTGS2 may be important for pregnancy maintenance and the timing of parturition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carolyn Mitchell
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, New South Wales 2305, Australia
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Abstract
The association between multiple pregnancy and preterm labour is well-established, with >50% of multiple births delivering before 37 weeks. However, there remains limited understanding of the factors predisposing to early delivery of twins. Physiological stimuli to the onset of parturition, including stretch, placental corticotrophin-releasing hormone and lung maturity factors, may be stronger in multiple pregnancies due to the increased fetal and placental mass. Pathological processes including infection and cervical insufficiency also have a role. Treatments that prevent preterm birth in singleton pregnancies, such as progesterone and cervical cerclage appear to be ineffective in multiple pregnancies. This article reviews aspects of preterm birth in twins and higher order multiples including epidemiology, prediction and prevention of preterm labour and potential mechanisms controlling onset of parturition. Evidence relating to the management of labour in preterm and term multiples is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Stock
- University of Edinburgh Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Room S7129, Simpson Centre for Reproductive Health, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Little France, Edinburgh EH16 4SA, UK.
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Wu X, Cheng J, Li P, Yang M, Qiu S, Liu P, Du J. Mechano-sensitive transcriptional factor Egr-1 regulates insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor expression and contributes to neointima formation in vein grafts. Arterioscler Thromb Vasc Biol 2009; 30:471-6. [PMID: 19965784 DOI: 10.1161/atvbaha.109.184259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Vein grafts in a coronary bypass or a hemodialysis access often develop obliterative growth of the neointima. We previously reported that the mechanical stretch-activated insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1/IGF-1R) pathway plays an important role in this remodeling. However, the transcriptional mechanism(s) regulating IGF-1R expression and neointima formation have not been identified. METHODS AND RESULTS Deletion and site-specific mutagenesis analysis of IGF-1R promoter identified that the minimal mechano-responsive promoter element (-270--130) contains 2 consensus sequences for binding of early growth reponse-1 (Egr-1) transcriptional factor. Mechanical stretch stimulated both Egr-1 mRNA (4.6-fold) and protein (5.2-fold) in vascular smooth muscle cells. Interposition of a vein into an artery increased Egr-1 mRNA (7.8+/-2.6-fold vs sham). In vascular smooth muscle cells isolated from Egr-1 knockout mice, mechanical stretch could not increase IGF-1R, and vascular smooth muscle cells proliferation was decreased by 47% compared to wild-type cells. Importantly, the neointima area was reduced by at least 50%, and the lumen-to-media ratio increased by 55% in vein grafts of Egr-1 knockout mice compared with results of wild-type mice. CONCLUSIONS Egr-1 is a mechano-sensitive transcriptional factor that stimulates IGF-1R transcription, resulting in vascular remodeling of vein grafts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqian Wu
- Beijing Institute of Heart, Lung and Blood Vessel Diseases, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100029, China
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Cyclic stretch induces cyclooxygenase-2 gene expression in vascular endothelial cells via activation of nuclear factor kappa-beta. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2009; 389:599-601. [PMID: 19748489 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2009.09.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2009] [Accepted: 09/04/2009] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Vascular endothelial cells respond to biomechanical forces, such as cyclic stretch and shear stress, by altering gene expression. Since endothelial-derived prostanoids, such as prostacyclin and thromboxane A(2), are key mediators of endothelial function, we investigated the effects of cyclic stretch on the expression of genes in human umbilical vein endothelial cells controlling prostanoid synthesis: cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), prostacyclin synthase (PGIS) and thromboxane A(2) synthase (TXAS). COX-2 and TXAS mRNAs were upregulated by cyclic stretch for 24h. In contrast, PGIS mRNA was decreased and stretch had no effect on COX-1 mRNA expression. We further show that stretch-induced upregulation of COX-2 is mediated by activation of the NF-kappabeta signaling pathway.
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Engineer N, Sooranna SR, Liang Z, Bennett PR, Johnson MR. Influence of extracellular matrix on cytokine stimulated pro-labour gene expression in human uterine myocytes. Reprod Sci 2008; 15:950-60. [PMID: 19050328 DOI: 10.1177/1933719108322439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Cellular function is modulated by the interaction with the extracellular matrix within the myometrium. We formed the hypothesis that the cytokine-stimulated pro-labour gene expression by human uterine smooth muscle cells would be increased by growing the cells on collagen-coated plates. Primary cultures of human uterine smooth muscle cells grown on uncoated plates and on plates coated with collagen were exposed to the inflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin-1beta and interleukin-6) and assessed the messenger RNA expression of oxytocin receptor, interleukin-8, prostaglandin H synthase type-2 and prostaglandin F(2) alpha receptor. Basal pro-labour gene expression was unaffected by collagen coating and the response to the inflammatory cytokines was similar for oxytocin receptor and prostaglandin H synthase type-2, but appeared to be reduced for interleukin-8 and enhanced for FP. Collagen coating made no significant impact on basal integrin expression and interleukin-1beta induced phosphorylation of extracellular-regulated-kinase1/2 and RelA subunit of nuclear factor-kappa B (p65). We conclude that growing human uterine smooth muscle cells on collagen-coated plates may modulate the pro-labour gene response to the inflammatory cytokines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neelam Engineer
- Department of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Imperial College School of Medicine, Chelsea & Westminster Hospital, London, UK.
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Pre-labour Fetal Membranes Overlying the Cervix Display Alterations in Inflammation and NF-κB Signalling Pathways. Placenta 2008; 29:995-1002. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2008.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2008] [Revised: 08/22/2008] [Accepted: 09/03/2008] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Galazka K, Wicherek L, Sikora J, Czekierdowski A, Banas T, Bednarek W, Obrzut B, Blecharz P, Reron A, Kalinka J. ORIGINAL ARTICLE: RCAS1 Decidual Immunoreactivity during Stillbirth: Immune Cell Presence and Activity. Am J Reprod Immunol 2008; 60:513-22. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0897.2008.00648.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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Kendal-Wright CE, Hubbard D, Bryant-Greenwood GD. Chronic stretching of amniotic epithelial cells increases pre-B cell colony-enhancing factor (PBEF/visfatin) expression and protects them from apoptosis. Placenta 2008; 29:255-65. [PMID: 18272217 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2007.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2007] [Revised: 12/21/2007] [Accepted: 12/24/2007] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
In normal pregnancy, the fetal membranes become increasingly distended towards term and in multifetal gestations they become over-distended. Apoptosis of the amniotic epithelium increases with advancing gestation and may contribute to fetal membrane weakening and rupture. The effects of chronic static stretching for 36h have been investigated using primary amniotic epithelial cells. Pre-B cell colony-enhancing factor (PBEF) is a stretch-responsive cytokine and expression of its gene, intracellular and secreted protein were all significantly increased by 4h and its secretion sustained over 36h, contrasting with the rapid increase and decline in expression of IL-8. Increased expression of SIRT1 and decreased p53 paralleled the changes in PBEF, are known to be responsive to PBEF, and contribute to cell survival. Distension had no effects on proliferation or necrosis but protected the cells from apoptosis, knocking-down PBEF with antisense probes abrogated this protective effect. There was increased immunostaining of PBEF in the compact layer of the amnion in multifetal tissues and significantly fewer apoptotic amniotic epithelial cells. These results show that chronic stretching of the amniotic epithelial cells increases PBEF expression, which protects them from apoptosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- C E Kendal-Wright
- Developmental and Reproductive Biology, John A Burns School of Medicine, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA.
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Mitchell C, Johnson R, Giles W, Zakar T. Prostaglandin H synthase-2 gene regulation in the amnion at labour: histone acetylation and nuclear factor kappa B binding to the promoter in vivo. Mol Hum Reprod 2008; 14:53-9. [DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gam086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Terzidou V. Preterm labour. Biochemical and endocrinological preparation for parturition. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2007; 21:729-56. [PMID: 17616441 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2007.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Preterm delivery is a common obstetric problem occurring in about 1 in 10 of all births. Preterm babies have a high risk of morbidity and mortality. Such births account for 75% of all major neonatal problems. At the other end of the spectrum, prolonged pregnancy is also a subject of concern because it too is associated with increased fetal morbidity and mortality. Despite extensive research, the mechanisms that control the length of human pregnancy and signal the onset of labour have not been fully determined. This chapter will discuss basic principles in the biology of parturition and the regulation of contraction-associated proteins including the oxytocin receptor. The major pathways regulating contractions and the transcriptional regulation of the main genes that are known to be involved in the onset of labour and parturition will be examined. Some new potentially therapeutic strategies for the biochemical management of preterm labour will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasso Terzidou
- Parturition Research Group, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN, UK.
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