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Cherubini M, Haase K. A Bioengineered Model for Studying Vascular-Pericyte Interactions of the Placenta. Methods Mol Biol 2023; 2608:409-423. [PMID: 36653720 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-2887-4_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Investigating the complex cellular interactions of the placenta has remained, until now, a challenge in the field. Given the ethical limitations of studying human placentae, and the interspecies differences that exist between mammals, in vitro models are a valuable tool for investigating developmental and pathologic processes related to the human placenta. A number of in vitro models have been recently employed to investigate various aspects of placental development, with many focusing on the maternal-fetal interface including the trophoblasts and an endothelial barrier. One critical aspect in mimicking the physiology of the placenta is to include perfusable microvessels. As this organ is highly vascularized, it is pertinent to represent the exchange of oxygen and nutrients from the maternal blood to the embedded vessels of the fetus. Using hydrogel-laden microfluidics, it is now possible to bioengineer these and other microvessels in a reproducible manner. By using HUVEC, fetal-like vessels can be generated on a chip and can be studied in a controlled manner. This chapter introduces the concept of generating a triculture vasculature on-chip system, which can be employed to study placental pericyte-endothelial interactions. We describe strategies for generating the vessels on-chip, as well as for quantifying vascular morphology and function. This methodology allows for unique microvessel-related biological questions to be addressed, including how stromal cells impact vascular remodeling over time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Cherubini
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Kristina Haase
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), Barcelona, Spain.
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2
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Tudor A, Novac L, Camen IV, Manolea MM, Vrabie SC, Sandulescu MS, Șerbănescu MS, Boldeanu MV, Neamțu SD, Istrate Ofițeru AM, Dijmarescu AL, Novac MB. Intraplacental Villous Artery Doppler can Improve the Ability to Predict Placenta-Mediated Disease. CURRENT HEALTH SCIENCES JOURNAL 2023; 49:96-101. [PMID: 37780194 PMCID: PMC10541068 DOI: 10.12865/chsj.49.01.96] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Evaluation of Intraplacental Villous Artery Doppler (IPVA) as a predictive factor compared to umbilical artery (UA) Doppler in placenta-mediated disease (PMD). METHODS This prospective study included a group of 106 pregnant women, of which 76 patients constituted the PMD group: preeclampsia (PE) and small for gestational age (SGA), and 30 pregnant women constituted the control group. IPVA and UA Doppler evaluation was performed in 2 pregnancy periods: 20.0-23.6 weeks, and 28.0-32.6 weeks of gestation. RESULTS From the study of maternal characteristics and risk factors for the presented pathology, we found that no studied risk factor was statistically involved in the evolution toward PMD during pregnancy. In the control group, we noticed a decrease in IPVA PI and RI, along with an increase in gestational age, while in the PMD group, these indices increased. Both in the 2nd and the 3rd trimester, we had a significant statistical difference between the two groups (p<0.001). Regarding the degree of prediction of the changes that occurred at this level, we found a good statistical correlation. A higher degree of positive predictability is noted, for IPVA-PI, but also for UA-PI, but with better sensitivity (72.27%) for UA PI in the 2nd trimester. CONCLUSIONS We can conclude that both Doppler measurements, IPVA and UA can be used to evaluate and detect pregnancy complications that belong to PMD, preeclampsia, and/or fetal growth restriction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Tudor
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Romania
| | - Liliana Novac
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Romania
| | - Ioana Victoria Camen
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Romania
- "Filantropia" Hospital, Craiova, Romania
| | - Maria Magdalena Manolea
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Romania
- "Filantropia" Hospital, Craiova, Romania
| | | | | | | | | | - Simona Daniela Neamțu
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Romania
- "Filantropia" Hospital, Craiova, Romania
| | | | - Anda Lorena Dijmarescu
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Romania
- "Filantropia" Hospital, Craiova, Romania
| | - Marius Bogdan Novac
- University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Craiova, Romania
- "Filantropia" Hospital, Craiova, Romania
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3
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Li T, Li Z, Fu J, Tang C, Liu L, Xu J, Zhao J, Li Z. Nickel nanoparticles exert cytotoxic effects on trophoblast HTR-8/SVneo cells possibly via Nrf2/MAPK/caspase 3 pathway. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2022; 215:114336. [PMID: 36103928 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2022.114336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2022] [Revised: 08/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Nickel nanoparticles are widely used in the industry and may affect the reproductive system. The potential molecular mechanism of exposing the first-trimester trophoblast cell line (HTR-8/SVneo) to nickel nanoparticles remains unclear. Hence, the aim of this study was to investigate the in vitro cytotoxicity of Ni NPs on HTR-8/SVneo cells. HTR-8/SVneo cells were subjected to various concentrations (0, 2.5, 5, 7.5, 10, and 12.5 μg/cm2) of Ni NPs. The toxicity of the Ni NPs was evaluated in HTR-8/SVneo cells by measuring cell viability. The underlying mechanism of nickel nanoparticles toxicity to HTR-8/SVneo cells was determined by measuring the content of intracellular reactive oxygen species, mitochondrial membrane potential, and the rate of cell apoptosis and cell cycle, by measuring adenosine triphosphate levels, intracellular lipid peroxidation malondialdehyde, total superoxide dismutase, and CuZn/Mn-SOD activities, and by determining proteins related to Nrf2, MAPK, and Cytochrome c. Our results showed that the nickel nanoparticles treatment reduced the viability of HTR-8/SVneo cells, while it increased their oxidative stress and lowered their mitochondrial respiratory capacity. Additionally, the nickel nanoparticles treatment induced cell S-phase arrest and apoptosis. These molecular events may be linked to the oxidative stress-Nrf2 pathway/MAPK/Caspase 3 cascade. Thus, nickel nanoparticles exert cytotoxic effects on HTR-8/SVneo cells, which could affect the function of the placenta in human.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Li
- Department of Preventative Medicine, Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, Ningbo University, 818 Fenghua Road, Ningbo, Zhejiang Province 315211, PR China
| | - Zhou Li
- Xiang Yang Center for Disease Control and Prevention, 172 Tanxi Road, Xiangyang, Hubei province 441022, PR China
| | - Jianfei Fu
- Department of Medical Records and Statistics, Ningbo First Hospital, Ningbo, Zhejiang Province 315010, PR China
| | - Chunlan Tang
- Department of Preventative Medicine, Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, Ningbo University, 818 Fenghua Road, Ningbo, Zhejiang Province 315211, PR China
| | - Liya Liu
- Department of Preventative Medicine, Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, Ningbo University, 818 Fenghua Road, Ningbo, Zhejiang Province 315211, PR China
| | - Jin Xu
- Department of Preventative Medicine, Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, Ningbo University, 818 Fenghua Road, Ningbo, Zhejiang Province 315211, PR China
| | - Jinshun Zhao
- Department of Preventative Medicine, Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, Ningbo University, 818 Fenghua Road, Ningbo, Zhejiang Province 315211, PR China
| | - Zhen Li
- Department of Preventative Medicine, Zhejiang Key Laboratory of Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, Ningbo University, 818 Fenghua Road, Ningbo, Zhejiang Province 315211, PR China.
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4
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Morhason-Bello IO, Adekanmi AJ, Roberts A, Adeyinka AO. Relationship between placenta location and adverse pregnancy outcomes in a nigerian tertiary health facility. Niger J Clin Pract 2022; 25:1050-1055. [DOI: 10.4103/njcp.njcp_1473_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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Targeted Delivery of Epidermal Growth Factor to the Human Placenta to Treat Fetal Growth Restriction. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:pharmaceutics13111778. [PMID: 34834193 PMCID: PMC8618188 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13111778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Placental dysfunction is the underlying cause of pregnancy complications such as fetal growth restriction (FGR) and pre-eclampsia. No therapies are available to treat a poorly functioning placenta, primarily due to the risks of adverse side effects in both the mother and the fetus resulting from systemic drug delivery. The use of targeted liposomes to selectively deliver payloads to the placenta has the potential to overcome these issues. In this study, we assessed the safety and efficacy of epidermal growth factor (EGF)-loaded, peptide-decorated liposomes to improve different aspects of placental function, using tissue from healthy control pregnancies at term, and pregnancies complicated by FGR. Phage screening identified a peptide sequence, CGPSARAPC (GPS), which selectively homed to mouse placentas in vivo, and bound to the outer syncytiotrophoblast layer of human placental explants ex vivo. GPS-decorated liposomes were prepared containing PBS or EGF (50–100 ng/mL), and placental explants were cultured with liposomes for up to 48 h. Undecorated and GPS-decorated liposomes containing PBS did not affect the basal rate of amino acid transport, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) release or cell turnover in placental explants from healthy controls. GPS-decorated liposomes containing EGF significantly increased amino acid transporter activity in healthy control explants, but not in placental explants from women with FGR. hCG secretion and cell turnover were unaffected by EGF delivery; however, differential activation of downstream protein kinases was observed when EGF was delivered via GPS-decorated vs. undecorated liposomes. These data indicate that targeted liposomes represent a safe and useful tool for the development of new therapies for placental dysfunction, recapitulating the effects of free EGF.
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Cherubini M, Erickson S, Haase K. Modelling the Human Placental Interface In Vitro-A Review. MICROMACHINES 2021; 12:884. [PMID: 34442506 PMCID: PMC8398961 DOI: 10.3390/mi12080884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Revised: 07/17/2021] [Accepted: 07/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Acting as the primary link between mother and fetus, the placenta is involved in regulating nutrient, oxygen, and waste exchange; thus, healthy placental development is crucial for a successful pregnancy. In line with the increasing demands of the fetus, the placenta evolves throughout pregnancy, making it a particularly difficult organ to study. Research into placental development and dysfunction poses a unique scientific challenge due to ethical constraints and the differences in morphology and function that exist between species. Recently, there have been increased efforts towards generating in vitro models of the human placenta. Advancements in the differentiation of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs), microfluidics, and bioprinting have each contributed to the development of new models, which can be designed to closely match physiological in vivo conditions. By including relevant placental cell types and control over the microenvironment, these new in vitro models promise to reveal clues to the pathogenesis of placental dysfunction and facilitate drug testing across the maternal-fetal interface. In this minireview, we aim to highlight current in vitro placental models and their applications in the study of disease and discuss future avenues for these in vitro models.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Kristina Haase
- European Molecular Biology Laboratory (EMBL), 08003 Barcelona, Spain; (M.C.); (S.E.)
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7
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Krause BJ. Novel insights for the role of nitric oxide in placental vascular function during and beyond pregnancy. J Cell Physiol 2021; 236:7984-7999. [PMID: 34121195 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.30470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 05/28/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
More than 30 years have passed since endothelial nitric oxide synthesis was described using the umbilical artery and vein endothelium. That seminal report set the cornerstone for unveiling the molecular aspects of endothelial function. In parallel, the understanding of placental physiology has gained growing interest, due to its crucial role in intrauterine development, with considerable long-term health consequences. This review discusses the evidence for nitric oxide (NO) as a critical player of placental development and function, with a special focus on endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) vascular effects. Also, the regulation of eNOS-dependent vascular responses in normal pregnancy and pregnancy-related diseases and their impact on prenatal and postnatal vascular health are discussed. Recent and compelling evidence has reinforced that eNOS regulation results from a complex network of processes, with novel data concerning mechanisms such as mechano-sensing, epigenetic, posttranslational modifications, and the expression of NO- and l-arginine-related pathways. In this regard, most of these mechanisms are expressed in an arterial-venous-specific manner and reflect traits of the fetal systemic circulation. Several studies using umbilical endothelial cells are not aimed to understand placental function but general endothelial function, reinforcing the influence of the placenta on general knowledge in physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernardo J Krause
- Instituto de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de O'Higgins, Rancagua, Chile
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8
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Rosati P, Buongiorno S, Salvi S, Lanzone A, Familiari A. Reference values for pulsatility index of fetal anterior and posterior cerebral arteries in prolonged pregnancy. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ULTRASOUND : JCU 2021; 49:199-204. [PMID: 33501682 DOI: 10.1002/jcu.22979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2020] [Revised: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To establish consistent normal reference values for fetal anterior cerebral artery (ACA) and posterior cerebral artery (PCA) pulsatility index (PI) in prolonged pregnancy. METHODS This prospective cross-sectional observational study included singleton normal prolonged pregnancies into two study groups according to the gestational age: from 40 + 0 to 40 + 6 and from 41 + 0 to 41 + 6 weeks. The PI was assessed in both anatomical segments of ACA (ACA-S1 and ACA-S2) and of PCA (PCA-S1 and PCA-S2) with color Doppler imaging and pulsed Doppler examination, and reference centiles charts were generated. PI values from the two investigated segments of each vessel were also compared. RESULTS Data were obtained in 771 patients: n = 448 in the 40 + 0 and 40 + 6 weeks group, and n = 323 in the 41 + 0 and 41 + 6 weeks group. A moderate decrease in PI was observed as pregnancy progressed. No differences in PI values were found between the two anatomical segments of ACA and PCA. CONCLUSION This study provides Doppler reference values for the fetal ACA and PCA PI. It also shows that Doppler examination could be performed indifferently in one of the two anatomical segments of these arteries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Rosati
- Department of "Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica" della, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Buongiorno
- Department of "Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica" della, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Salvi
- Department of "Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica" della, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Lanzone
- Department of "Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica" della, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Familiari
- Department of "Scienze della Salute della Donna, del Bambino e di Sanità Pubblica" della, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A Gemelli IRCCS, Rome, Italy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "L. Mangiagalli," Fondazione IRCCS "Ca' Granda" - Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy
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9
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Kerby A, Shingleton D, Batra G, Sharps MC, Baker BC, Heazell AEP. Placental Morphology and Cellular Characteristics in Stillbirths in Women With Diabetes and Unexplained Stillbirths. Arch Pathol Lab Med 2021; 145:82-89. [PMID: 33367657 DOI: 10.5858/arpa.2019-0524-oa] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT.— Women with diabetes have increased stillbirth risk. Although the underlying pathophysiological processes are poorly understood, stillbirth is frequently related to abnormal placental structure and function. OBJECTIVE.— To investigate placental morphology and cellular characteristics in the placentas of women with diabetes who had stillbirths and stillbirths of unexplained cause. DESIGN.— Placentas from women with uncomplicated live births, live births in women with diabetes, unexplained stillbirths, and stillbirths related to diabetes (n = 10/group) underwent clinical histopathologic assessment and were also investigated using immunohistochemical staining to quantify syncytial nuclear aggregates, proliferation, trophoblast area, vascularization, T cells, placental macrophages (Hofbauer cells), and the receptor for advanced glycation end products. RESULTS.— Ki67+ cells were decreased in unexplained stillbirths compared with live births in women with diabetes. Both stillbirth groups had increased cytokeratin 7+/nuclear area compared with controls. Blood vessels/villi were decreased in unexplained stillbirth compared with live births from women with diabetes. Compared with uncomplicated controls, CD163+ macrophages were increased in live births in women with diabetes and unexplained stillbirths, and further increased in stillbirths related to diabetes. There was no change in CD3+ T cells or syncytial nuclear aggregates. Receptor for advanced glycation end products-positive cells were decreased in both stillbirth groups compared with diabetes-related live births. Co-localization of receptor for advanced glycation end products in macrophages was increased in both stillbirth groups compared with live birth groups. CONCLUSIONS.— Stillbirths related to diabetes exhibit placental phenotypic differences compared with live births. Further investigation of these parameters may provide understanding of the pathologic mechanisms of stillbirth and aid the development of stillbirth prevention strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan Kerby
- From Tommy's Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Division of Developmental Biology & Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom (Kerby, Baker, Heazell, Sharps)
| | | | - Gauri Batra
- The Department of Paediatric and Perinatal Pathology, Royal Manchester Children's Hospital, Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, United Kingdom (Batra)
| | - Megan C Sharps
- From Tommy's Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Division of Developmental Biology & Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom (Kerby, Baker, Heazell, Sharps)
| | - Bernadette C Baker
- From Tommy's Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Division of Developmental Biology & Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom (Kerby, Baker, Heazell, Sharps)
| | - Alexander E P Heazell
- From Tommy's Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Division of Developmental Biology & Medicine, Faculty of Biology, Medicine & Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom (Kerby, Baker, Heazell, Sharps).,The Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester, United Kingdom (Heazell)
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10
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Eliesen GAM, van Hove H, Meijer MH, van den Broek PHH, Pertijs J, Roeleveld N, van Drongelen J, Russel FGM, Greupink R. Toxicity of anticancer drugs in human placental tissue explants and trophoblast cell lines. Arch Toxicol 2020; 95:557-571. [PMID: 33083868 PMCID: PMC7870638 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-020-02925-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The application of anticancer drugs during pregnancy is associated with placenta-related adverse pregnancy outcomes. Therefore, it is important to study placental toxicity of anticancer drugs. The aim of this study was to compare effects on viability and steroidogenesis in placental tissue explants and trophoblast cell lines. Third trimester placental tissue explants were exposed for 72 h (culture day 4–7) to a concentration range of doxorubicin, paclitaxel, cisplatin, carboplatin, crizotinib, gefitinib, imatinib, or sunitinib. JEG-3, undifferentiated BeWo, and syncytialised BeWo cells were exposed for 48 h to the same drugs and concentrations. After exposure, tissue and cell viability were assessed and progesterone and estrone levels were quantified in culture medium. Apart from paclitaxel, all compounds affected both cell and tissue viability at clinically relevant concentrations. Paclitaxel affected explant viability moderately, while it reduced cell viability by 50% or more in all cell lines, at 3–10 nM. Doxorubicin (1 µM) reduced viability in explants to 83 ± 7% of control values, whereas it fully inhibited viability in all cell types. Interference with steroid release in explants was difficult to study due to large variability in measurements, but syncytialised BeWo cells proved suitable for this purpose. We found that 1 µM sunitinib reduced progesterone release to 76 ± 6% of control values, without affecting cell viability. While we observed differences between the models for paclitaxel and doxorubicin, most anticancer drugs affected viability significantly in both placental explants and trophoblast cell lines. Taken together, the placenta should be recognized as a potential target organ for toxicity of anticancer drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaby A M Eliesen
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, (Route 137), PO Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands.
| | - Hedwig van Hove
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, (Route 137), PO Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Maartje H Meijer
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, (Route 137), PO Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Petra H H van den Broek
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, (Route 137), PO Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jeanne Pertijs
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, (Route 137), PO Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Nel Roeleveld
- Department for Health Evidence, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Joris van Drongelen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Frans G M Russel
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, (Route 137), PO Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Rick Greupink
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, (Route 137), PO Box 9101, 6500 HB, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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Brien ME, Boufaied I, Bernard N, Forest JC, Giguere Y, Girard S. Specific inflammatory profile in each pregnancy complication: A comparative study. Am J Reprod Immunol 2020; 84:e13316. [PMID: 32761668 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13316] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2020] [Revised: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Pre-eclampsia (PE), preterm birth (PTB) and intra-uterine growth restriction (IUGR) affect 5%-12% of pregnancies. They have been associated with placental inflammation, although the detection of inflammatory mediators in the maternal circulation is still controversial. Our goal was to determine the inflammatory changes occurring in the second part of pregnancy to identify profiles distinguishing pathological pregnancies from each other. METHOD OF STUDY We performed a nested case-control study of 200 women randomly selected from a cohort recruited at the CHU de Quebec-Universite Laval, Quebec, Canada. Women with uncomplicated term pregnancy (CTRL); PE (severe or not); PTB or IUGR (N = 50/each) were included. Plasma samples, obtained from the late second trimester and at delivery, were analysed for over 30 selected mediators (including cytokines/alarmins), by multiplex, ELISA or specific assays. Demographic and obstetrical information were obtained for classification. RESULTS In CTRL, we observed significant differences between 2nd trimester and delivery, with increased levels of inflammatory mediators (ex. MCP-1, IL-6), supporting an inflammatory profile towards term. Increased levels of IL-6, CXCL10 and CRP were observed in PE as compared to CTRL. In PTB, we observed increased CXCL9 in 2nd trimester and decreased progesterone at delivery. In IUGR, increased HMGB1 and IL-1α were observed only in the 2nd trimester. CONCLUSIONS Our work showed significant inflammatory changes in uncomplicated pregnancies towards delivery, supporting that normal delivery is pro-inflammatory, although not to the same extent as in pathological pregnancies. Inflammatory profiles are specific to each pregnancy complication which may help to understand the contribution of inflammation to the clinical presentation of these conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Eve Brien
- Ste-Justine Hospital Research Center, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Université de Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Department of Microbiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Université de Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Ines Boufaied
- Ste-Justine Hospital Research Center, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Nathalie Bernard
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Quebec-Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Jean-Claude Forest
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Quebec-Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada.,Department of Molecular Biology, Medical Biochemistry and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Yves Giguere
- Centre de Recherche du CHU de Quebec-Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada.,Department of Molecular Biology, Medical Biochemistry and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Quebec City, QC, Canada
| | - Sylvie Girard
- Ste-Justine Hospital Research Center, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Université de Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada.,Department of Microbiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Université de Montreal, Montreal, QC, Canada
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12
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Hitzerd E, Broekhuizen M, Neuman RI, Colafella KMM, Merkus D, Schoenmakers S, Simons SHP, Reiss IKM, Danser AHJ. Human Placental Vascular Reactivity in Health and Disease: Implications for the Treatment of Pre-eclampsia. Curr Pharm Des 2020; 25:505-527. [PMID: 30950346 DOI: 10.2174/1381612825666190405145228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Adequate development of the placenta is essential for optimal pregnancy outcome. Pre-eclampsia (PE) is increasingly recognized to be a consequence of placental dysfunction and can cause serious maternal and fetal complications during pregnancy. Furthermore, PE increases the risk of neonatal problems and has been shown to be a risk factor for cardiovascular disease of the mother later in life. Currently, there is no adequate treatment for PE, mainly because its multifactorial pathophysiology remains incompletely understood. It originates in early pregnancy with abnormal placentation and involves a cascade of dysregulated systems in the placental vasculature. To investigate therapeutic strategies it is essential to understand the regulation of vascular reactivity and remodeling of blood vessels in the placenta. Techniques using human tissue such as the ex vivo placental perfusion model provide insight in the vasoactive profile of the placenta, and are essential to study the effects of drugs on the fetal vasculature. This approach highlights the different pathways that are involved in the vascular regulation of the human placenta, changes that occur during PE and the importance of focusing on restoring these dysfunctional systems when studying treatment strategies for PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilie Hitzerd
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Internal Medicine; Division of Pharmacology and Vascular Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Michelle Broekhuizen
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Internal Medicine; Division of Pharmacology and Vascular Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Cardiology; Division of Experimental Cardiology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Rugina I Neuman
- Department of Internal Medicine; Division of Pharmacology and Vascular Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands.,Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Katrina M Mirabito Colafella
- Department of Internal Medicine; Division of Pharmacology and Vascular Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands.,Cardiovascular Program, Monash Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Physiology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Daphne Merkus
- Department of Cardiology; Division of Experimental Cardiology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Sam Schoenmakers
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Sinno H P Simons
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Irwin K M Reiss
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - A H Jan Danser
- Department of Internal Medicine; Division of Pharmacology and Vascular Medicine, Erasmus MC University Medical Center, Rotterdam, Netherlands
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13
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Levy M, Kovo M, Izaik Y, Luwisch Cohen I, Schreiber L, Ganer Herman H, Barda G, Bar J, Weiner E. Reduced fetal movements at term in singleton low risk pregnancies-Is there an association with placental histopathological findings? Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2020; 99:884-890. [PMID: 31960411 DOI: 10.1111/aogs.13810] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2019] [Revised: 12/20/2019] [Accepted: 01/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Maternal perception of fetal movements has long been considered an indicator of fetal well-being. A sudden decrease in the number of fetal movements is suggestive of fetal compromise. We aimed to determine whether the maternal perception of reduced fetal movements (RFM) is associated with placental pathological lesions in a low-risk term population. MATERIAL AND METHODS Our study was a case-control study that was performed in a single university center. Placental histopathology, maternal demographics, labor characteristics, and neonatal outcomes of term, singleton pregnancies with maternal perception of RFM during the 2 weeks prior to delivery were collected. To isolate the effect of RFM on placental pathology, we excluded cases complicated by preterm birth, hypertensive disorders, diabetes mellitus, small-for-gestational-age and congenital/genetic anomalies. We compared pregnancy outcomes and placental pathology between the RFM group and a control group matched for gestational age and mode of delivery. Placental lesions were classified according to the "Amsterdam" criteria. Composite adverse neonatal outcome was defined as one or more of the following: sepsis, transfusion, hypoglycemia, phototherapy, respiratory morbidity, cerebral morbidity, necrotizing enterocolitis and fetal/neonatal death. Multivariable regression analysis was performed to identify independent associations with adverse neonatal outcome. RESULTS We included patients who gave birth from January 2008 until May 2019. The study group included 203 term pregnancies with RFM during the 2 weeks prior to delivery, which was matched with 203 controls. The RFM group was characterized by a higher rate of placental weight <10th percentile (22.6% vs. 3.9%, P < .001), a higher rate of maternal vascular malperfusion lesions (30.5% vs. 18.7%, P = .007) and lesions of maternal inflammatory response (43.3% vs. 29.5%, P = .005). At delivery, the RFM group had higher rates of cesarean delivery due to non-reassuring fetal heart rate monitoring (P = .01), 5-minute Apgar score ≤7 (P = .03), neonatal intensive care unit admissions (P < .001) and composite adverse neonatal outcomes (P = .007). Using multivariable analysis, RFM (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.7, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.1-4.8), and placental maternal vascular malperfusion lesions (aOR 1.2, 95% CI 1.0-2.9) were independently associated with adverse neonatal outcome. CONCLUSIONS After excluding important placental-related morbidities, RFM was associated with a higher rate of placental weight <10th percentile and placental maternal vascular malperfusion lesions vs. controls. This study suggests a placental involvement in the association between RFM at term and adverse pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michal Levy
- Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Michal Kovo
- Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Yakira Izaik
- Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Isca Luwisch Cohen
- Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Letizia Schreiber
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Department of Pathology, Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, Israel
| | - Hadas Ganer Herman
- Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Giulia Barda
- Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Jacob Bar
- Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Eran Weiner
- Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Edith Wolfson Medical Center, Holon, Israel.,Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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14
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Armstrong-Buisseret L, Godolphin PJ, Bradshaw L, Mitchell E, Ratcliffe S, Storey C, Heazell AEP. Standard care informed by the result of a placental growth factor blood test versus standard care alone in women with reduced fetal movement at or after 36 +0 weeks' gestation: a pilot randomised controlled trial. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2020; 6:23. [PMID: 32082609 PMCID: PMC7020549 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-020-0561-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Biomarkers of placental function can potentially aid the diagnosis and prediction of pregnancy complications. This randomised controlled pilot trial assessed whether for women with reduced fetal movement (RFM), intervention directed by the measurement of a placental biomarker in addition to standard care was feasible and improved pregnancy outcome compared with standard care alone. Methods Women aged 16–50 years presenting at eight UK maternity units with RFM between 36+0 and 41+0 weeks’ gestation with a viable singleton pregnancy and no indication for immediate delivery were eligible. Participants were randomised 1:1 in an unblinded manner to standard care and a biomarker blood test result revealed and acted on (intervention arm) or standard care where the biomarker result was not available (control arm). The objectives were to determine the feasibility of a main trial by recruiting 175–225 participants over 9 months and to provide proof of concept that informing care by measurement of placental biomarkers may improve outcome. Feasibility was assessed via the number of potentially eligible women, number recruited, reasons for non-recruitment and compliance. Proof of concept outcomes included the rates of the induction of labour and caesarean birth, and a composite adverse pregnancy outcome. Results Overall, 2917 women presented with RFM ≥ 36 weeks, 352 were approached to participate and 216 (61%) were randomised (intervention n = 109, control n = 107). The main reason for not approaching women was resource/staff issues (n = 1510). Ninety-seven women declined the trial, mainly due to not liking blood tests (n = 24) or not wanting to be in a trial (n = 21). Compliance with the trial interventions was 100% in both arms. Labour was induced in 97 (45%) participants (intervention n = 49, control n = 48), while 17 (9%) had planned caesarean sections (intervention n = 9, control n = 8). Overall, 9 (8%) babies in the intervention arm had the composite adverse pregnancy outcome versus 4 (4%) in the control arm. Conclusions A main trial using a placental biomarker in combination with delivery, as indicated by the biomarker, in women with RFM is feasible. The frequency of adverse outcomes in this population is low, hence, a large sample size would be required along with consideration of the most appropriate outcome measures. Trial registration ISRCTN, ISRCTN12067514; registered 8 September 2017.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lindsay Armstrong-Buisseret
- 1Nottingham Clinical Trials Unit (NCTU), Building 42, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD UK
| | - Peter J Godolphin
- 1Nottingham Clinical Trials Unit (NCTU), Building 42, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD UK
| | - Lucy Bradshaw
- 1Nottingham Clinical Trials Unit (NCTU), Building 42, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD UK
| | - Eleanor Mitchell
- 1Nottingham Clinical Trials Unit (NCTU), Building 42, University of Nottingham, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD UK
| | - Sam Ratcliffe
- 2Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, 5th Floor (Research), St Mary's Hospital, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9WL UK
| | - Claire Storey
- 3International Stillbirth Alliance, c/o Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, 5th Floor (Research,), St Mary's Hospital, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9WL UK
| | - Alexander E P Heazell
- 2Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, 5th Floor (Research), St Mary's Hospital, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9WL UK.,4St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, M13 9WL UK
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15
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Higgins LE, Heazell AEP, Simcox LE, Johnstone ED. Intra-placental arterial Doppler: A marker of fetoplacental vascularity in late-onset placental disease? Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2020; 99:865-874. [PMID: 31943128 DOI: 10.1111/aogs.13807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Revised: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 01/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Late-gestation adverse pregnancy outcome is associated with reduced placental villous vascularity but rarely with a frankly abnormal umbilical artery Doppler waveform. The clinical utility of umbilical artery Doppler velocimetry in late gestation is limited by poor understanding of what aspect(s) of placental structure and function the impedance reflects. We hypothesized that placental arterial circulation impedance reflects placental vascularity and arterial function. MATERIAL AND METHODS This was a secondary analysis of data from the FEMINA2 study, a study of pregnancy outcome after reduced fetal movement. Forty-three pregnancies that delivered within 7 days of ultrasound assessment were examined. Impedance was quantified by pulsatility index (PI) from umbilical, chorionic plate arteries, and intra-placental arteries. Site-specific PI was compared with villous vascularity (CD31 immunostaining) and placental arterial function (wire myography) by regression analysis (P < .01) where factor analysis suggested potential co-variance (Eigen value > 2). RESULTS Pulsatility index decreased with proximity to the placental microvasculature (P < .0001). Intra-placental artery PI correlated significantly with vessel number (R2 = 0.40, P = .0007). No significant relations between umbilical or chorionic plate artery PI and villous vascularity were found (P ≥ .11 and P ≥ .042). No significant co-variance was suggested between PI at any Doppler sampling site and ex vivo placental arterial function indices. Measurement reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient) was highest in the umbilical artery (PI 0.75 and 0.50 for intra- and interoperator reliability, respectively) and lowest in the intra-placental arteries (PI 0.55 and 0.41, respectively). Systematic bias in umbilical artery PI was observed between observers, but not at other Doppler sampling sites. CONCLUSIONS More vascular placentas ex vivo are associated with reduced intra-placental artery Doppler impedance in utero. Although umbilical (but not intra-placental) artery Doppler PI is associated with adverse outcome after reduced fetal movement, this predictive ability does not appear to be through assessment of placental vascularity or chorionic plate arterial function. The inferior reliability of intra-placental artery Doppler, although similar to previously published reliability of umbilical artery Doppler, impairs its ability to detect subtle differences in placental vascularity, and must be significantly improved before it could be considered a clinically useful test.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy E Higgins
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Center, Institute of Human Development, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Center, Manchester, UK
| | - Alexander E P Heazell
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Center, Institute of Human Development, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Center, Manchester, UK
| | - Louise E Simcox
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Center, Institute of Human Development, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Center, Manchester, UK
| | - Edward D Johnstone
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Center, Institute of Human Development, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.,St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Center, Manchester, UK
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16
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Scott RE, Greenwood SL, Hayes DJL, Baker BC, Jones RL, Heazell AEP. Effects of hydroxychloroquine on the human placenta-Findings from in vitro experimental data and a systematic review. Reprod Toxicol 2019; 87:50-59. [PMID: 31082466 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2019.05.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2019] [Revised: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), a toll like receptor (TLR) 7 and 9 antagonist, is used during pregnancy for inflammatory conditions with limited understanding of its placental toxicology. We hypothesized that HCQ does not have toxic effects on the placenta and can modulate cytokine release in response to TLR7/9 activation. A systematic review was conducted and no studies of HCQ on multicellular human placental tissue were identified. Accordingly, placental villous explants were cultured for 7 days with HCQ +/- TLR7/9 agonists. HCQ did not affect cell turnover, nutrient transport or cytokine release but increased IL-10 (anti-inflammatory) secretion and promoted syncytiotrophoblast regeneration. Cytokine release stimulated by TLR7/9 agonists was unaffected by HCQ. In conclusion, HCQ did not adversely affect placental tissue and may have a protective anti-inflammatory function. Further research is needed to determine the mechanisms of HCQ actions on human placenta and whether they could be utilized to improve pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca E Scott
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, United Kingdom. beckyscott-@hotmail.co.uk
| | - Susan L Greenwood
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, United Kingdom
| | - Dexter J L Hayes
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, United Kingdom
| | - Bernadette C Baker
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca L Jones
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, United Kingdom
| | - Alexander E P Heazell
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, United Kingdom
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17
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Freedman AA, Hogue CJ, Marsit CJ, Rajakumar A, Smith AK, Goldenberg RL, Dudley DJ, Saade GR, Silver RM, Gibbins KJ, Stoll BJ, Bukowski R, Drews-Botsch C. Associations Between the Features of Gross Placental Morphology and Birthweight. Pediatr Dev Pathol 2019; 22:194-204. [PMID: 30012074 PMCID: PMC6335186 DOI: 10.1177/1093526618789310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The placenta plays a critical role in regulating fetal growth. Recent studies suggest that there may be sex-specific differences in placental development. The purpose of our study was to evaluate the associations between birthweight and placental morphology in models adjusted for covariates and to assess sex-specific differences in these associations. We analyzed data from the Stillbirth Collaborative Research Network's population-based case-control study conducted between 2006 and 2008, which recruited cases of stillbirth and population-based controls in 5 states. Our analysis was restricted to singleton live births with a placental examination (n = 1229). Characteristics of placental morphology evaluated include thickness, surface area, difference in diameters, shape, and umbilical cord insertion site. We used linear regression to model birthweight as a function of placental morphology and covariates. Surface area had the greatest association with birthweight; a reduction in surface area of 83 cm2, which reflects the interquartile range, is associated with a 260.2-g reduction in birthweight (95% confidence interval, -299.9 to -220.6), after adjustment for other features of placental morphology and covariates. Reduced placental thickness was also associated with lower birthweight. These associations did not differ between males and females. Our results suggest that reduced placental thickness and surface area are independently associated with lower birthweight and that these relationships are not related to sex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexa A Freedman
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Carol J Hogue
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Carmen J Marsit
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia,Department of Environmental Health, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Augustine Rajakumar
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Alicia K Smith
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Robert L Goldenberg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York
| | - Donald J Dudley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
| | - George R Saade
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, Texas
| | - Robert M Silver
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Karen J Gibbins
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Barbara J Stoll
- McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Radek Bukowski
- Department of Women’s Health, Dell Medical School, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
| | - Carolyn Drews-Botsch
- Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia
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18
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Brien ME, Baker B, Duval C, Gaudreault V, Jones RL, Girard S. Alarmins at the maternal-fetal interface: involvement of inflammation in placental dysfunction and pregnancy complications 1. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 2018; 97:206-212. [PMID: 30485131 DOI: 10.1139/cjpp-2018-0363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Inflammation is known to be associated with placental dysfunction and pregnancy complications. Infections are well known to be a cause of inflammation but they are frequently undetectable in pregnancy complications. More recently, the focus has been extended to inflammation of noninfectious origin, namely caused by endogenous mediators known as "damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs)" or alarmins. In this manuscript, we review the mechanism by which inflammation, sterile or infectious, can alter the placenta and its function. We discuss some classical DAMPs, such as uric acid, high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1), cell-free fetal deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) (cffDNA), S100 proteins, heat shock protein 70 (HSP70), and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) and their impact on the placenta. We focus on the main placental cells (i.e., trophoblast and Hofbauer cells) and describe the placental response to, and release of, DAMPs. We also covered the current state of knowledge about the role of DAMPs in pregnancy complications including preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, preterm birth, and stillbirth and possible therapeutic strategies to preserve placental function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Eve Brien
- a Ste-Justine Hospital Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada.,b Department of Microbiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Bernadette Baker
- c Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9WL, United Kingdom.,d St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospital National Health Service Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, M13 9WL, United Kingdom
| | - Cyntia Duval
- a Ste-Justine Hospital Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada.,e Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Virginie Gaudreault
- a Ste-Justine Hospital Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada.,e Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada
| | - Rebecca L Jones
- c Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9WL, United Kingdom.,d St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospital National Health Service Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, M13 9WL, United Kingdom
| | - Sylvie Girard
- a Ste-Justine Hospital Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada.,b Department of Microbiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada.,e Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montreal, QC H3T 1J4, Canada
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19
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Rosati P, Buongiorno S, Salvi S, Guariglia L, Lanzone A, Morales-Roselló J. Reproducibility of the fetal cerebral vessels assessment in full and late term pregnancies. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2018; 33:2159-2165. [PMID: 30474451 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2018.1542681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Objective: Data concerning feasibility of the fetal cerebral Doppler examination in full term and late term pregnancy is lacking. Our purpose was to perform an evaluation of these arteries with power Doppler ultrasound, calculating the percentage of identification and measurement and the intraobserver reproducibility.Methods: This was a cross sectional study evaluating a population of 578 normally grown fetuses divided according to the week of examination. The first group included fetuses examined at week 40 (N = 323) and the second fetuses examined at week 41 (N = 255). The three major branches of the internal carotid artery (anterior, middle and posterior cerebral arteries, ACA, middle cerebral artery (MCA), posterior cerebral arteries (PCA)) and their anastomosis (A1, A2, P1, P2) were examined with power Doppler ultrasonography by three independent ultrasonographers. The proportion of vessel identified and measured was calculated and the reproducibility among the three operators was investigated.Results: The major arteries at the circle of Willis were fully identified/measured in 65/56 and 62/48% of fetuses at 40 and 41 weeks. The MCA obtained the higher percentage of identification and measurement at both periods (> 80 and >70%). The entire set of anastomosis were less frequently identified/measured at both periods (50/< 50% of cases), especially in the A2 segment. The best agreement was obtained in the MCA and the worst in the PCA-P1 segment.Conclusions: At 40 and 41 weeks, the fetal cerebral vessels, especially the MCA, are suitable for power Doppler evaluation, providing an interesting tool to evaluate fetal hemodynamics in full and late term pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Rosati
- Department of Woman and Child Health, Woman Health Area, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy
| | - S Buongiorno
- Department of Woman and Child Health, Woman Health Area, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy
| | - S Salvi
- Department of Woman and Child Health, Woman Health Area, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy
| | - L Guariglia
- Department of Woman and Child Health, Woman Health Area, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy
| | - A Lanzone
- Department of Woman and Child Health, Woman Health Area, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Roma, Italy
| | - J Morales-Roselló
- Servicio de Obstetricia, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, Valencia, Spain
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20
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Higgins LE, Myers JE, Sibley CP, Johnstone ED, Heazell AEP. Antenatal placental assessment in the prediction of adverse pregnancy outcome after reduced fetal movement. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0206533. [PMID: 30395584 PMCID: PMC6218043 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0206533] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the value of in utero placental assessment in predicting adverse pregnancy outcome after reported reduced fetal movements (RFM). METHOD A non-interventional prospective cohort study of women (N = 300) with subjective RFM at ≥28 weeks' gestation in singleton non-anomalous pregnancies at a UK tertiary maternity hospital. Clinical, sonographic (fetal weight, placental size and maternal, fetal and placental arterial Doppler) and biochemical (maternal serum hCG, hPL, progesterone, PlGF and sFlt-1) assessment was conducted. Multiple logistic regression identified combinations of measurements (models) most predictive of adverse pregnancy outcome (perinatal mortality, birth weight <10th centile, five minute Apgar score <7, umbilical arterial pH <7.1 or base excess <-10, neonatal intensive care admission). Models were compared by test performance characteristics (ROC curve, sensitivity, specificity, positive/negative predictive value, positive/negative likelihood ratios) against baseline care (estimated fetal weight centile, amniotic fluid index and gestation at presentation). RESULTS 61 (20.6%) pregnancies ended in adverse outcome. Models incorporating PlGF/sFlt-1 ratio and umbilical artery free loop Doppler impedance demonstrated modest improvement in ROC area for adverse outcome (baseline care 0.69 vs. proposed models 0.73-0.76, p<0.05). However, there was little improvement in other test characteristics (baseline vs. best proposed model: sensitivity 21.7% [95% confidence interval 13.1-33.6] vs. 35.8%% [24.4-49.3], specificity 96.6% [93.4-98.3] vs. 94.7% [90.7-97.0], PPV 61.9% [40.9-79.3] vs. 63.3% [45.5-78.1], NPV 82.8% [77.9-86.8] vs. 85.2% [80.0-89.2], positive LR 6.3 [2.8-14.6] vs. 6.7 [3.4-3.3], negative LR 0.81 [0.71-0.93] vs. 0.68 [0.55-0.83]) and wide confidence intervals. Negative post-test probability remained high (16.7% vs. 14.0%). CONCLUSION Antenatal placental assessment may improve identification of RFM pregnancies at highest risk of adverse pregnancy outcome but further work is required to understand and refine currently available outcome definitions and diagnostic techniques to improve clinical utility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy E. Higgins
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Jenny E. Myers
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Colin P. Sibley
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Edward D. Johnstone
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Alexander E. P. Heazell
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
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21
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Heazell AEP, Budd J, Li M, Cronin R, Bradford B, McCowan LME, Mitchell EA, Stacey T, Martin B, Roberts D, Thompson JMD. Alterations in maternally perceived fetal movement and their association with late stillbirth: findings from the Midland and North of England stillbirth case-control study. BMJ Open 2018; 8:e020031. [PMID: 29982198 PMCID: PMC6042603 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-020031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To report perception of fetal movements in women who experienced a stillbirth compared with controls at a similar gestation with a live birth. DESIGN Case-control study. SETTING 41 maternity units in the UK. PARTICIPANTS Cases were women who had a late stillbirth ≥28 weeks gestation (n=291) and controls were women with an ongoing pregnancy at the time of the interview (n=733). Controls were frequency matched to cases by obstetric unit and gestational age. METHODS Data were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire which included questions on maternal perception of fetal movement (frequency, strength, increased and decreased movements and hiccups) in the 2 weeks before the interview/stillbirth. Five fetal movement patterns were identified incorporating the changes in strength and frequency in the last 2 weeks by combining groups of similar pattern and risk. Multivariable analysis adjusted for known confounders. PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURE Association of maternally perceived fetal movements in relation to late stillbirth. RESULTS In multivariable analyses, women who reported increased strength of movements in the last 2 weeks had decreased risk of late stillbirth compared with those whose movements were unchanged (adjusted OR (aOR) 0.18, 95% CI 0.13 to 0.26). Women with decreased frequency (without increase in strength) of fetal movements were at increased risk (aOR 4.51, 95% CI 2.38 to 8.55). Daily perception of fetal hiccups was protective (aOR 0.31, 95% CI 0.17 to 0.56). CONCLUSIONS Increased strength of fetal movements and fetal hiccups is associated with decreased risk of stillbirth. Alterations in frequency of fetal movements are important in identifying pregnancies at increased risk of stillbirth, with the greatest risk in women noting a reduction in fetal activity. Clinical guidance should be updated to reflect that increase in strength and frequency of fetal movements is associated with the lowest risk of stillbirth, and that decreased fetal movements are associated with stillbirth. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT02025530.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander E P Heazell
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biological, Medical and Human Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Jayne Budd
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Minglan Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Robin Cronin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Billie Bradford
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | | | - Edwin A Mitchell
- Department of Paediatrics, Child Health and Youth Health, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | | | - Bill Martin
- Department of Obstetrics, Birmingham Women's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Devender Roberts
- Department of Obstetrics, Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Liverpool Women's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, UK
| | - John M D Thompson
- Department of Paediatrics, Child Health and Youth Health, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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22
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Eliesen GAM, van den Broek P, van den Heuvel JJ, Bilos A, Pertijs J, van Drongelen J, Russel FGM, Greupink R. Editor's Highlight: PlacentalDisposition and Effects of Crizotinib: An Ex Vivo Study in the Isolated Dual-Side Perfused Human Cotyledon. Toxicol Sci 2018; 157:500-509. [PMID: 28369651 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfx063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) play an important role in cancer pharmacotherapy, yet there is limited data on their use during pregnancy. We studied placental disposition and placental toxicity of crizotinib, a TKI used to treat nonsmall cell lung cancer. Term placentas were perfused for 3 h with crizotinib (1 µM) using the ex vivo dual-side cotyledon perfusion technique. Interference of TKIs with trophoblast viability was studied using BeWo cells. Expression of P-glycoprotein (P-gp) and Breast Cancer Resistance Protein (BCRP) in placental tissue was assessed by immunohistochemistry and inhibition of these transporters was determined in vitro by transport studies with membrane vesicles overexpressing human P-gp or BCRP. We found that crizotinib rapidly and strongly accumulates in cotyledon perfusion experiments, reaching a concentration of 3.1 ± 0.4 µM in placental tissue. Final drug concentrations in the maternal and foetal reservoirs were 0.2 ± 0.05 and 0.08 ± 0.01 µM, respectively. Furthermore, crizotinib inhibited BeWo cell viability (IC50: 234 nM, 95% CI: 167-328 nM) 10 times more potently than other TKIs tested. In vitro transport studies revealed that crizotinib is a potent inhibitor of the transport activities of BCRP (IC50: 5.7 µM, 95% CI: 2.7-11.8 µM) and P-gp (IC50: 7.8 µM, 95% CI: 3.4-18.0 µM). In conclusion, crizotinib strongly accumulated in placental tissue at clinically relevant concentrations. IC50 values for transporter inhibition and trophoblast cell viability were similar to the tissue concentrations reached, suggesting that crizotinib can inhibit placental BCRP and P-gp function and possibly affect trophoblast viability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaby A M Eliesen
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Petra van den Broek
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jeroen J van den Heuvel
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Albert Bilos
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Jeanne Pertijs
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Joris van Drongelen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Frans G M Russel
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Rick Greupink
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
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23
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Lean SC, Heazell AEP, Dilworth MR, Mills TA, Jones RL. Placental Dysfunction Underlies Increased Risk of Fetal Growth Restriction and Stillbirth in Advanced Maternal Age Women. Sci Rep 2017; 7:9677. [PMID: 28852057 PMCID: PMC5574918 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-09814-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2016] [Accepted: 07/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Pregnancies in women of advanced maternal age (AMA) are susceptible to fetal growth restriction (FGR) and stillbirth. We hypothesised that maternal ageing is associated with utero-placental dysfunction, predisposing to adverse fetal outcomes. Women of AMA (≥35 years) and young controls (20-30 years) with uncomplicated pregnancies were studied. Placentas from AMA women exhibited increased syncytial nuclear aggregates and decreased proliferation, and had increased amino acid transporter activity. Chorionic plate and myometrial artery relaxation was increased compared to controls. AMA was associated with lower maternal serum PAPP-A and sFlt and a higher PlGF:sFlt ratio. AMA mice (38-41 weeks) at E17.5 had fewer pups, more late fetal deaths, reduced fetal weight, increased placental weight and reduced fetal:placental weight ratio compared to 8-12 week controls. Maternofetal clearance of 14C-MeAIB and 3H-taurine was reduced and uterine arteries showed increased relaxation. These studies identify reduced placental efficiency and altered placental function with AMA in women, with evidence of placental adaptations in normal pregnancies. The AMA mouse model complements the human studies, demonstrating high rates of adverse fetal outcomes and commonalities in placental phenotype. These findings highlight placental dysfunction as a potential mechanism for susceptibility to FGR and stillbirth with AMA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha C Lean
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom.
| | - Alexander E P Heazell
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Central Manchester University Hospitals, NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Mark R Dilworth
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Central Manchester University Hospitals, NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Tracey A Mills
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Central Manchester University Hospitals, NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca L Jones
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Central Manchester University Hospitals, NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, United Kingdom
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24
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Choudhury RH, Dunk CE, Lye SJ, Aplin JD, Harris LK, Jones RL. Extravillous Trophoblast and Endothelial Cell Crosstalk Mediates Leukocyte Infiltration to the Early Remodeling Decidual Spiral Arteriole Wall. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2017; 198:4115-4128. [PMID: 28396316 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1601175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2016] [Accepted: 03/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Decidual spiral arteriole (SpA) remodeling is essential to ensure optimal uteroplacental blood flow during human pregnancy, yet very little is known about the regulatory mechanisms. Uterine decidual NK (dNK) cells and macrophages infiltrate the SpAs and are proposed to initiate remodeling before colonization by extravillous trophoblasts (EVTs); however, the trigger for their infiltration is unknown. Using human first trimester placenta, decidua, primary dNK cells, and macrophages, we tested the hypothesis that EVTs activate SpA endothelial cells to secrete chemokines that have the potential to recruit maternal immune cells into SpAs. Gene array, real-time PCR, and ELISA analyses showed that treatment of endothelial cells with EVT conditioned medium significantly increased production of two chemokines, CCL14 and CXCL6. CCL14 induced chemotaxis of both dNK cells and decidual macrophages, whereas CXCL6 also induced dNK cell migration. Analysis of the decidua basalis from early pregnancy demonstrated expression of CCL14 and CXCL6 by endothelial cells in remodeling SpAs, and their cognate receptors are present in both dNK cells and macrophages. Neutralization studies identified IL-6 and CXCL8 as factors secreted by EVTs that induce endothelial cell CCL14 and CXCL6 expression. This study has identified intricate crosstalk between EVTs, SpA cells, and decidual immune cells that governs their recruitment to SpAs in the early stages of remodeling and has identified potential key candidate factors involved. This provides a new understanding of the interactions between maternal and fetal cells during early placentation and highlights novel avenues for research to understand defective SpA remodeling and consequent pregnancy pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruhul H Choudhury
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9WL, United Kingdom; .,Academic Health Science Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, United Kingdom
| | - Caroline E Dunk
- Research Centre for Women's and Infants' Health, Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3H7, Canada; and
| | - Stephen J Lye
- Research Centre for Women's and Infants' Health, Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario M5T 3H7, Canada; and
| | - John D Aplin
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9WL, United Kingdom.,Academic Health Science Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, United Kingdom
| | - Lynda K Harris
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9WL, United Kingdom.,Academic Health Science Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, United Kingdom.,Manchester Pharmacy School, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PT, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca L Jones
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9WL, United Kingdom.,Academic Health Science Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, United Kingdom
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25
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Beyramzadeh M, Dikmen ZG, Erturk NK, Tuncer ZS, Akbiyik F. Placental respiratory chain complex activities in high risk pregnancies. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2017; 30:2911-2917. [PMID: 27915495 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2016.1268594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation is the key energy source for placental functions and fetal growth. The purpose of this study was to investigate the function of placenta in high risk pregnancies by measuring mitochondrial respiratory chain complex (RCC) activities, and to evaluate the correlation between double test risk ratio and RCC activities. METHODS The placenta samples were collected from 50 pregnant women. The controls consisted of 20 normal uncomplicated pregnancies and the study group (n = 30) consisted of preeclampsia (PE), intrauterin growth restriction (IUGR), advanced maternal age (AMA), twins and preterm deliveries. Complexes I, II-III, IV and citrate synthase (CS) activities were measured by spectrophotometric assays. RESULTS Complexes I, II-III and IV activities were significantly lower in the study group than the controls (p < 0.05). Complexes I and II-III activities were significantly reduced in placenta of preterm deliveries compared with the controls (p < 0.003). Double test risk ratio was above the cut-off limit (1:300) in 43% of the study group in which decreased complexes I and II-III activities were observed. CONCLUSIONS Impaired placental mitochondria RCC functions can lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes. Pregnant women with high risk in double test should be monitored carefully in terms of PE, IUGR and preterm delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mojtaba Beyramzadeh
- a Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine , Hacettepe University , Ankara , Turkey
| | - Zeliha Gunnur Dikmen
- a Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine , Hacettepe University , Ankara , Turkey
| | - Nergiz K Erturk
- b Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine , Hacettepe University , Ankara , Turkey
| | - Zafer Selcuk Tuncer
- b Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Faculty of Medicine , Hacettepe University , Ankara , Turkey
| | - Filiz Akbiyik
- a Department of Medical Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine , Hacettepe University , Ankara , Turkey
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26
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Man J, Hutchinson JC, Heazell AE, Ashworth M, Jeffrey I, Sebire NJ. Stillbirth and intrauterine fetal death: role of routine histopathological placental findings to determine cause of death. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2016; 48:579-584. [PMID: 27781319 DOI: 10.1002/uog.16019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2016] [Revised: 07/05/2016] [Accepted: 07/06/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Placental abnormalities are a common cause of death in stillbirth, ranking second only to unexplained deaths, though there is wide variation in the proportion attributed to placental disease. In clinical practice, interpretation of the significance of placental findings is difficult, since many placental features in stillbirths overlap with those in live births. Our aim was to examine objectively classified placental findings from a series of > 1000 autopsies following intrauterine death in order to evaluate the role of placental histological examination in determining the cause of death. METHODS As part of a larger study evaluating several aspects of autopsy findings in intrauterine death, a dedicated database was used to collate antenatal and postmortem examination details for all cases examined between 2005 and 2013 at two tertiary specialist centers in London, UK. Histological findings for placentas were evaluated in relation to the final cause of death. RESULTS Among 1064 intrauterine deaths, 946 (89%) cases had the placenta submitted for examination as part of the autopsy. Of these, 307 (32%) cases had the cause of death assigned to abnormalities of the placenta, cord or membranes. Around one third of stillbirths (≥ 24 weeks) had some isolated placental histological abnormality identified, many of uncertain significance, a significantly greater proportion than in cases of second-trimester intrauterine fetal demise (P < 0.0001). The cause of death was ascending infection in 176/946 (19%) cases, peaking at 22 weeks' gestation, with significantly more black mothers having ascending infection compared with other ethnicities (P < 0.0001). Maternal vascular malperfusion was the largest category of placental abnormalities in stillbirth, with peak prevalence in the early third trimester. There were 18 (2%) cases with specific histological abnormalities, including chronic histiocytic intervillositis and massive perivillous fibrin deposition. CONCLUSIONS Placental pathologies represent the largest category of cause of intrauterine death. Placental histological examination is the single most useful component of the autopsy process in this clinical setting. A minority of cases are associated with specific placental pathologies, often with high recurrence rates, that can be diagnosed only on microscopic examination of the placenta. Many deaths remain unexplained, although placental histological lesions may be present which are of uncertain significance. A rigorous, systematic approach to placental pathology research and classification may yield better understanding of the significance of placental findings and reduce the rate of unexplained intrauterine deaths. Copyright © 2016 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Man
- Department of Histopathology, Camelia Botnar Laboratories, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK
- University College London, Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - J C Hutchinson
- Department of Histopathology, Camelia Botnar Laboratories, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK
- University College London, Institute of Child Health, London, UK
| | - A E Heazell
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, St Mary's Hospital, Manchester, UK
| | - M Ashworth
- Department of Histopathology, Camelia Botnar Laboratories, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK
| | - I Jeffrey
- Department of Histopathology, St George's Hospital, London, UK
| | - N J Sebire
- Department of Histopathology, Camelia Botnar Laboratories, Great Ormond Street Hospital, London, UK
- University College London, Institute of Child Health, London, UK
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27
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Oyston C, Stanley JL, Oliver MH, Bloomfield FH, Baker PN. Maternal Administration of Sildenafil Citrate Alters Fetal and Placental Growth and Fetal–Placental Vascular Resistance in the Growth-Restricted Ovine Fetus. Hypertension 2016; 68:760-7. [DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.116.07662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2016] [Accepted: 06/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) causes short- and long-term morbidity. Reduced placental perfusion is an important pathogenic component of IUGR; substances that enhance vasodilation in the uterine circulation, such as sildenafil citrate (sildenafil), may improve placental blood flow and fetal growth. This study aimed to examine the effects of sildenafil in the growth-restricted ovine fetus. Ewes carrying singleton pregnancies underwent insertion of vascular catheters, and then, they were randomized to receive uterine artery embolization (IUGR) or to a control group. Ewes in the IUGR group received a daily infusion of sildenafil (IUGR+SC; n=10) or vehicle (IUGR+V; n=8) for 21 days. The control group received no treatment (n=9). Umbilical artery blood flow was measured using Doppler ultrasound and the resistive index (RI) calculated. Fetal weight, biometry, and placental weight were obtained at postmortem after treatment completion. Umbilical artery RI in IUGR+V fell less than in controls; the RI of IUGR+SC was intermediate to that of the other 2 groups (mean±SEM for control versus IUGR+V versus IUGR+SC: ∆RI, 0.09±0.03 versus −0.01±0.02 versus 0.03±0.02;
F
(2, 22)=4.21;
P
=0.03). Compared with controls, lamb and placental weights were reduced in IUGR+V but not in IUGR+SC (control versus IUGR+V versus IUGR+SC: fetal weight, 4381±247 versus 3447±235 versus 3687±129 g;
F
(2, 24)=5.49;
P
=0.01 and placental weight: 559.7±35.0 versus 376.2±32.5 versus 475.2±42.5 g;
F
(2, 24)=4.64;
P
=0.01). Sildenafil may be a useful adjunct in the management of IUGR. An increase in placental weight and fall in fetal–placental resistance suggests that changes to growth are at least partly mediated by changes to placental growth rather than alterations in placental efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Oyston
- From the Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, New Zealand; and Gravida, National Research Centre for Growth and Development, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Joanna L. Stanley
- From the Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, New Zealand; and Gravida, National Research Centre for Growth and Development, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Mark H. Oliver
- From the Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, New Zealand; and Gravida, National Research Centre for Growth and Development, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Frank H. Bloomfield
- From the Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, New Zealand; and Gravida, National Research Centre for Growth and Development, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Philip N. Baker
- From the Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, New Zealand; and Gravida, National Research Centre for Growth and Development, Auckland, New Zealand
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28
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Third trimester placental volume and biometry measurement: A method-development study. Placenta 2016; 42:51-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2016.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2015] [Revised: 03/14/2016] [Accepted: 04/07/2016] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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29
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Janssen AB, Tunster SJ, Heazell AEP, John RM. Placental PHLDA2 expression is increased in cases of fetal growth restriction following reduced fetal movements. BMC MEDICAL GENETICS 2016; 17:17. [PMID: 26944942 PMCID: PMC4779203 DOI: 10.1186/s12881-016-0279-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2015] [Accepted: 02/26/2016] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Background Maternal perception of reduced fetal movements (RFM) is associated with increased risk of fetal growth restriction (FGR) and stillbirth, mediated by placental insufficiency. The maternally expressed imprinted gene PHLDA2 controls fetal growth, placental development and placental lactogen production in a mouse model. A number of studies have also demonstrated abnormally elevated placental PHLDA2 expression in human growth restricted pregnancies. This study examined whether PHLDA2 was aberrantly expressed in placentas of RFM pregnancies resulting in delivery of an FGR infant and explored a possible relationship between PHLDA2 expression and placental lactogen release from the human placenta. Methods Villous trophoblast samples were obtained from a cohort of women reporting RFM (N = 109) and PHLDA2 gene expression analysed. hPL levels were assayed in the maternal serum (N = 74). Results Placental PHLDA2 expression was significantly 2.3 fold higher in RFM pregnancies resulting in delivery of an infant with FGR (p < 0.01), with highest levels of PHLDA2 expression in the most severe cases. Placental PHLDA2 expression was associated with maternal serum hPL levels (r = −0.30, p = 0.008, n = 74) although this failed to reach statistical significance in multiple linear regression analysis controlling for birth weight (p = 0.07). Conclusions These results further highlight a role for placental PHLDA2 in poor perinatal outcomes, specifically FGR associated with RFM. Furthermore, this study suggests a potential relationship between placental PHLDA2 expression and hPL production by the placenta, an association that requires further investigation in a larger cohort. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12881-016-0279-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Bugge Janssen
- Cardiff School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, Wales, CF10 3AX, UK.
| | - Simon J Tunster
- Cardiff School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, Wales, CF10 3AX, UK.
| | - Alexander E P Heazell
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
| | - Rosalind M John
- Cardiff School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, Wales, CF10 3AX, UK.
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30
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Kell DB, Kenny LC. A Dormant Microbial Component in the Development of Preeclampsia. Front Med (Lausanne) 2016; 3:60. [PMID: 27965958 PMCID: PMC5126693 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2016.00060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2016] [Accepted: 11/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is a complex, multisystem disorder that remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in pregnancy. Four main classes of dysregulation accompany PE and are widely considered to contribute to its severity. These are abnormal trophoblast invasion of the placenta, anti-angiogenic responses, oxidative stress, and inflammation. What is lacking, however, is an explanation of how these themselves are caused. We here develop the unifying idea, and the considerable evidence for it, that the originating cause of PE (and of the four classes of dysregulation) is, in fact, microbial infection, that most such microbes are dormant and hence resist detection by conventional (replication-dependent) microbiology, and that by occasional resuscitation and growth it is they that are responsible for all the observable sequelae, including the continuing, chronic inflammation. In particular, bacterial products such as lipopolysaccharide (LPS), also known as endotoxin, are well known as highly inflammagenic and stimulate an innate (and possibly trained) immune response that exacerbates the inflammation further. The known need of microbes for free iron can explain the iron dysregulation that accompanies PE. We describe the main routes of infection (gut, oral, and urinary tract infection) and the regularly observed presence of microbes in placental and other tissues in PE. Every known proteomic biomarker of "preeclampsia" that we assessed has, in fact, also been shown to be raised in response to infection. An infectious component to PE fulfills the Bradford Hill criteria for ascribing a disease to an environmental cause and suggests a number of treatments, some of which have, in fact, been shown to be successful. PE was classically referred to as endotoxemia or toxemia of pregnancy, and it is ironic that it seems that LPS and other microbial endotoxins really are involved. Overall, the recognition of an infectious component in the etiology of PE mirrors that for ulcers and other diseases that were previously considered to lack one.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas B. Kell
- School of Chemistry, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- The Manchester Institute of Biotechnology, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Centre for Synthetic Biology of Fine and Speciality Chemicals, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- *Correspondence: Douglas B. Kell,
| | - Louise C. Kenny
- The Irish Centre for Fetal and Neonatal Translational Research (INFANT), University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
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