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Therachiyil L, Hussein OJ, Uddin S, Korashy HM. Regulation of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor in cancer and cancer stem cells of gynecological malignancies: An update on signaling pathways. Semin Cancer Biol 2022; 86:1186-1202. [PMID: 36252938 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2022.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Gynecological malignancies are a female type of cancers that affects the reproductive system. Cancer metastasis or recurrence mediated by cellular invasiveness occurs at advanced stages of cancer progression. Cancer Stem Cells (CSCs) enrichment in tumors leads to chemoresistance, which results in cancer mortality. Exposure to environmental pollutants such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons is associated with an increased the risk of CSC enrichment in gynecological cancers. One of the important pathways that mediates the metabolism and bioactivation of these environmental chemicals is the transcription factor, aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). The present review explores the molecular mechanisms regulating the crosstalk and interaction of the AhR with cancer-related signaling pathways, such as apoptosis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, immune checkpoints, and G-protein-coupled receptors in several gynecological malignancies such as ovarian, uterine, endometrial, and cervical cancers. The review also discusses the potential of targeting the AhR pathway as a novel chemotherapy for gynecological cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lubna Therachiyil
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar; Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Ola J Hussein
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Shahab Uddin
- Translational Research Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar; Dermatology Institute, Academic Health System, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Hesham M Korashy
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, QU Health, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
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2
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van den Brand AD, Rubinstein E, de Jong PC, van den Berg M, van Duursen M. Assessing anti-estrogenic effects of AHR ligands in primary human and rat endometrial epithelial cells. Reprod Toxicol 2020; 96:202-208. [PMID: 32668270 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2020.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2020] [Revised: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Unopposed estrogenic action in the uterus can lead to the development of endometrial cancer in both humans and rats. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) activation gives rise to anti-estrogenic actions and may consequently reduce the development of endometrial cancer. In this study, the anti-estrogenic potential of the AHR ligands 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) and DELAQ, a metabolite of the pharmaceutical laquinimod, was assessed in in primary human and rat endometrial epithelial cells (EECs) with and without co-exposure to endogenous hormones. In human EECs, estradiol and progesterone did not affect AHR gene expression, but in rat EECs, progesterone decreased Ahre xpression (1.4-fold). In accordance, AHR-mediated induction of Cyp1a1/1b1 expression by DELAQ and TCDD decreased in hormone-treated rat EECs. DELAQ was 22-fold more potent than TCDD in human EECs in inducing CYP1A1/1B1 gene expression, while DELAQ was approximately 16-33-fold less potent than TCDD in rat EECs. In human EECs, 10 nM DELAQ decreased estradiol-induced expression of growth-regulated estrogen receptor binding 1 (GREB1) by 1.8-fold. In rat EECs, both DELAQ and TCDD did not affect the expression of estradiol-induced genes. This study shows that AHR ligand DELAQ, but not TCDD, causes anti-estrogenic effects in primary human EECs. Furthermore, although AHR-mediated CYP1A1/1B1/Cyp1a1/1b1 induction by DELAQ and TCDD was stronger in rat EECs than human EECs, this did not result in apparent anti-estrogenic effects in the rat cells. This study shows that primary human and rat endometrial cells respond differently towards hormones and AHR ligands. This should be considered in human risk assessment based on rodent studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- A D van den Brand
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 104, 3584 CM Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - E Rubinstein
- Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., Netanya, Israel
| | - P C de Jong
- St. Antonius Hospital, Internal Medicine, Nieuwegein, the Netherlands
| | - M van den Berg
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 104, 3584 CM Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Mbm van Duursen
- Environmental Health & Toxicology, Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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3
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van den Brand AD, Rubinstein E, de Jong PC, van den Berg M, van Duursen MBM. Primary endometrial 3D co-cultures: A comparison between human and rat endometrium. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2019; 194:105458. [PMID: 31465845 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2019.105458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2018] [Revised: 08/18/2019] [Accepted: 08/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Human and rat reproductive systems differ significantly with respect to hormonal cyclicity and endometrial cell behavior. However, species-differences in endometrial cell responses upon hormonal stimulation and exposure to potentially toxic compounds are poorly characterized. In this study, human and rat endometrial hormonal responses were assessed in vitro using a 3D co-culture model of primary human and rat endometrial cells. The models were exposed to the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR) ligands 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), laquinimod, and its AHR active metabolite DELAQ. In both the human and rat endometrial models, estrogen receptor and progesterone receptor gene expression was modulated by the hormonal treatments, comparable to the in vivo situation. AHR gene expression in the human endometrial model did not change when exposed to hormones. In contrast, AHR expression decreased 2-fold in the rat model when exposed to predominantly progesterone, which resulted in a 2.8-fold attenuation of gene expression induction of cytochrome P450 1A1 (CYP1A1) by TCDD. TCDD and DELAQ, but not laquinimod, concentration-dependently induced CYP1A1 gene expression in both human and rat endometrial models. Interestingly, the relative degree of DELAQ to induce CYP1A1 was higher than that of TCDD in the human model, while it was lower in the rat model. These data clearly show species-differences in response to hormones and AHR ligands between human and rat endometrial cells in vitro, which might greatly affect the applicability of the rat as translational model for human endometrial effects. This warrants further development of human relevant, endometrium-specific test methods for risk assessment purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- A D van den Brand
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 104, 3584 CM Utrecht, the Netherlands.
| | - E Rubinstein
- Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd, Netanya, Israel
| | - P C de Jong
- St. Antonius Hospital, Nieuwegein, the Netherlands
| | - M van den Berg
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 104, 3584 CM Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - M B M van Duursen
- Institute for Risk Assessment Sciences, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 104, 3584 CM Utrecht, the Netherlands; Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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4
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Di Guardo F, Shah M, Cerana MC, Biondi A, Karaman E, Török P, Yela DA, Giampaolino P, Marín-Buck A, Laganà AS. Management of women affected by endometriosis: Are we stepping forward? JOURNAL OF ENDOMETRIOSIS AND PELVIC PAIN DISORDERS 2019. [DOI: 10.1177/2284026519841520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent chronic disease defined by the presence of endometrial-like tissue, glands and stroma in ectopic areas. Among all the pathogenic theories proposed to explain the origin of the disease, a pivotal role for immune, hormonal, and epigenetic disbalances have been hypothesized. Endometriosis affects up to 10%–15% of women in reproductive age and represents one of the most common gynecological causes of severe pelvic pain. The main symptoms reported by patients are dysmenorrhea and deep dyspareunia. Although the histological confirmation has been commonly considered mandatory, to date the possibility offered by the improvement in imagining techniques allows to make a proper diagnosis of the disease in most of the cases. Medical therapy represents only a symptomatic treatment and not the definitive solution. The aim of the hormonal therapy is to abolish the menstrual flow using progestin, oral contraceptives, and gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists to reduce pelvic pain. Surgical treatment consisting of laparoscopy has the goal of abolishing pain and may be conservative or radical in nature depending on the patients’ desire of spontaneous conception in the future. Radical surgery seems to be associated with a higher percentage of pain relief as well as higher recurrence rates. Due to the worldwide acceptance and the ongoing evolution of minimally invasive surgery to treat both benign and malignant diseases, future investigations may be conducted to consider this approach to save the function of all the organs involved by the disease and to reduce post-operative discomfort and psychological impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica Di Guardo
- Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Mohsin Shah
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Khyber Medical University, Peshawar, Pakistan
| | - Maria Cecilia Cerana
- Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Connecticut, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - Antonio Biondi
- Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Erbil Karaman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Van Yüzüncü Yıl University, Van, Turkey
| | - Péter Török
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Debrecen Clinical Center, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Daniela A. Yela
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Campinas, Brazil
| | | | - Alejandro Marín-Buck
- Department of Surgery, Universidad Cardenal Herrera-CEU, CEU Universities, Valencia, Spain
- Department of Gynecology, Hospital Provincial de Castellón, Castellón, Spain
| | - Antonio Simone Laganà
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Filippo Del Ponte” Hospital, University of Insubria, Varese, Italy
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Bremer S, Brittebo E, Dencker L, Knudsen LE, Mathisien L, Olovsson M, Pazos P, Pellizzer C, Paulesu LR, Schaefer W, Schwarz M, Staud F, Stavreus-Evers A, Vähänkangas K. In Vitro Tests for Detecting Chemicals Affecting the Embryo Implantation Process. Altern Lab Anim 2019; 35:421-39. [PMID: 17850188 DOI: 10.1177/026119290703500407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Bremer
- ECVAM, Institute for Health and Consumer Protection, European Commission Joint Research Centre, Ispra, Italy.
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6
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van den Berg M, van Duursen MB. Mechanistic considerations for reduced endometrial cancer risk by smoking. CURRENT OPINION IN TOXICOLOGY 2019. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cotox.2019.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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7
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Yao M, Hu T, Wang Y, Du Y, Hu C, Wu R. Polychlorinated biphenyls and its potential role in endometriosis. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2017; 229:837-845. [PMID: 28774553 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2017.06.088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2016] [Revised: 06/19/2017] [Accepted: 06/26/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
With the progress of global industrialization and environmental deterioration, the relationship between human health and the living environment has become an increasing focus of attention. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs, including dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls and non-dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls), as part of the organic chlorine contaminants, have been suspected as playing a role in the etiopathogenesis of endometriosis. Several population-based studies have proposed that exposure to PCBs may increase the risk of developing endometriosis, while some epidemiological studies have failed to find any association between PCBs and endometriosis. The purpose of this review is to discuss the potential pathophysiological relationship between endometriosis and PCBs with a focus on both dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls and non-dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengyun Yao
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 1Xueshi Road, Hangzhou 310006, P.R. China
| | - Tingting Hu
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 1Xueshi Road, Hangzhou 310006, P.R. China
| | - Yinfeng Wang
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 1Xueshi Road, Hangzhou 310006, P.R. China
| | - Yongjiang Du
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 1Xueshi Road, Hangzhou 310006, P.R. China
| | - Changchang Hu
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 1Xueshi Road, Hangzhou 310006, P.R. China
| | - Ruijin Wu
- Department of Gynecology, Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, 1Xueshi Road, Hangzhou 310006, P.R. China.
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8
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Wu RF, Huang ZX, Ran J, Dai SJ, Lin DC, Ng TW, Chen QX, Chen QH. Lipoxin A 4 Suppresses Estrogen-Induced Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition via ALXR-Dependent Manner in Endometriosis. Reprod Sci 2017; 25:566-578. [PMID: 28691579 DOI: 10.1177/1933719117718271] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is essential for embryogenesis, fibrosis, and tumor metastasis. Aberrant EMT phenomenon has been reported in endometriotic tissues of patients with endometriosis (EM). In this study, we further investigated the molecular mechanism of which lipoxin A4 (LXA4) suppresses estrogen (E2)-induced EMT in EM. STUDY DESIGN The EMT markers were analyzed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and Western blot in eutopic endometrial epithelial cells (EECs) or investigated by immunohistochemistry and qRT-PCR in endometriotic lesion of EM mice. The invasion and migration under different treatments were assessed by transwell assays with or without Matrigel. The messenger RNA (mRNA) and activities of matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP-2) and MMP-9 were determined by qRT-PCR and gelatin zymography, respectively. Luciferase reporter assay was used to measure the activity of zinc finger E-box binding homeobox 1(ZEB1) promoter. The level of E2 in endometriotic tissues was assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. RESULTS In eutopic EECs, stimulatory effects of E2 on EMT progress, migration, and invasion were all diminished by LXA4. Lipoxin A4 reduced E2-induced ZEB1 promoter activity. Lipoxin A4 also attenuated the phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase induced by E2. Co-incubation with Boc-2 rather than DMF antagonized the influence of LXA4. Animal experiments showed that LXA4 inhibited the EMT progress, MMP expression, and proteinase activities of endometriotic lesion in an LXA4 receptor (ALXR) manner, which suppressed the progression of EM. ZEB1 mRNA expression was upregulated and well correlated with E2 level in human endometrium. CONCLUSION Lipoxin A4 suppresses E2-induced EMT via ALXR-dependent manner in eutopic EECs, which reveals a novel biological effect of LXA4 in EM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong-Feng Wu
- 1 Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China.,2 State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.,3 Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Coastal and Wetland Ecosystems, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Zhi-Xiong Huang
- 2 State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.,3 Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Coastal and Wetland Ecosystems, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Jing Ran
- 1 Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Song-Juan Dai
- 1 Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Dian-Chao Lin
- 1 Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Tai-Wei Ng
- 1 Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China
| | - Qing-Xi Chen
- 2 State Key Laboratory of Cellular Stress Biology, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China.,3 Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Coastal and Wetland Ecosystems, School of Life Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Qiong-Hua Chen
- 1 Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, Fujian, People's Republic of China
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9
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Sofo V, Götte M, Laganà AS, Salmeri FM, Triolo O, Sturlese E, Retto G, Alfa M, Granese R, Abrão MS. Correlation between dioxin and endometriosis: an epigenetic route to unravel the pathogenesis of the disease. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2015; 292:973-86. [DOI: 10.1007/s00404-015-3739-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2015] [Accepted: 04/23/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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10
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Osuna CE, Grandjean P, Weihe P, El-Fawal HAN. Autoantibodies associated with prenatal and childhood exposure to environmental chemicals in Faroese children. Toxicol Sci 2014; 142:158-66. [PMID: 25124724 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfu163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Methylmercury, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and perfluorinated compounds (PFCs) are ubiquitous and persistent environmental chemicals with known or suspected toxic effects on the nervous system and the immune system. Animal studies have shown that tissue damage can elicit production of autoantibodies. However, it is not known if autoantibodies similarly will be generated and detectable in humans following toxicant exposures. Therefore, we conducted a pilot study to investigate if autoantibodies specific for neural and non-neural antigens could be detected in children at age 7 years who have been exposed to environmental chemicals. Both prenatal and age-7 exposures to mercury, PCBs, and PFCs were measured in 38 children in the Faroe Islands who were exposed to widely different levels of these chemicals due to their seafood-based diet. Concentrations of IgM and IgG autoantibodies specific to both neural (neurofilaments, cholineacetyltransferase, astrocyte glial fibrillary acidic protein, and myelin basic protein) and non-neural (actin, desmin, and keratin) antigens were measured and the associations of these autoantibody concentrations with chemical exposures were assessed using linear regression. Age-7 blood-mercury concentrations were positively associated with titers of multiple neural- and non-neural-specific antibodies, mostly of the IgM isotype. Additionally, prenatal blood-mercury and -PCBs were negatively associated with anti-keratin IgG and prenatal PFOS was negatively associated with anti-actin IgG. These exploratory findings demonstrate that autoantibodies can be detected in the peripheral blood following exposure to environmental chemicals. The unexpected association of exposures with antibodies specific for non-neural antigens suggests that these chemicals may have toxicities that have not yet been recognized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christa E Osuna
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts 02215 Center for Virology and Vaccine Research, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02215
| | - Philippe Grandjean
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts 02215 Department of Environmental Medicine, Institute of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Winsloewparken 17, DK-5000 Odense, Denmark
| | - Pál Weihe
- Department of Occupational Medicine and Public Health, Faroese Hospital System, Tórshavn, Faroe Islands
| | - Hassan A N El-Fawal
- Neurotoxicology Laboratory, Albany College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Albany, New York 12208
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Monsivais D, Dyson MT, Yin P, Coon JS, Navarro A, Feng G, Malpani SS, Ono M, Ercan CM, Wei JJ, Pavone ME, Su E, Bulun SE. ERβ- and prostaglandin E2-regulated pathways integrate cell proliferation via Ras-like and estrogen-regulated growth inhibitor in endometriosis. Mol Endocrinol 2014; 28:1304-15. [PMID: 24992181 DOI: 10.1210/me.2013-1421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In endometriosis, stromal and epithelial cells from the endometrium form extrauterine lesions and persist in response to estrogen (E2) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2). Stromal cells produce excessive quantities of estrogen and PGE2 in a feed-forward manner. However, it is unknown how estrogen stimulates cell proliferation and survival for the establishment and persistence of disease. Previous studies suggest that estrogen receptor-β (ERβ) is strikingly overexpressed in endometriotic stromal cells. Thus, we integrated genome-wide ERβ binding data from previously published studies in breast cells and gene expression profiles in human endometriosis and endometrial tissues (total sample number = 81) and identified Ras-like, estrogen-regulated, growth inhibitor (RERG) as an ERβ target. Estradiol potently induced RERG mRNA and protein levels in primary endometriotic stromal cells. Chromatin immunoprecipitation demonstrated E2-induced enrichment of ERβ at the RERG promoter region. PGE2 via protein kinase A phosphorylated RERG and enhanced the nuclear translocation of RERG. RERG induced the proliferation of primary endometriotic cells. Overall, we demonstrated that E2/ERβ and PGE2 integrate at RERG, leading to increased endometriotic cell proliferation and represents a novel candidate for therapeutic intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Monsivais
- Division of Reproductive Biology Research (D.M., M.T.D., P.Y., J.S.C., A.N., S.S.M., M.O., C.M.E., M.E.P., E.S., S.E.B.), Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Northwestern University Biomedical Informatics Center (part of the Northwestern CTSA) and The Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center (G.F.), and Department of Pathology (J.J.W.), Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois 60611
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12
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Canny GO, Lessey BA. The role of lipoxin A4 in endometrial biology and endometriosis. Mucosal Immunol 2013; 6:439-50. [PMID: 23485944 PMCID: PMC4062302 DOI: 10.1038/mi.2013.9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Lipoxin A4 (LXA4), an endogenous anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory mediator studied in many disease states, is recently appreciated as a potentially significant player in the endometrium. This eicosanoid, synthesized from arachidonic acid via the action of lipoxygenase enzymes, is likely regulated in endometrial tissue during the menstrual cycle. Recent studies revealed that LXA4 acts as an estrogen receptor agonist in endometrial epithelial cells, antagonizing some estrogen-mediated activities in a manner similar to the weak estrogen estriol, with which it shares structural similarity. LXA4 may also be an anti-inflammatory molecule in the endometrium, though its precise function in various physiological and pathological scenarios remains to be determined. The expression patterns for LXA4 and its receptor in the female reproductive tract suggest a role in pregnancy. The present review provides an oversight of its known and putative roles in the context of immuno-endocrine crosstalk. Endometriosis, a common inflammatory condition and a major cause of infertility and pain, is currently treated by surgery or anti-hormone therapies that are contraceptive and associated with undesirable side effects. LXA4 may represent a potential therapeutic and further research to elucidate its function in endometrial tissue and the peritoneal cavity will undoubtedly provide valuable insights.
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Affiliation(s)
- GO Canny
- Geneva Foundation for Medical Education and Research, Versoix, Switzerland
| | - BA Lessey
- University of South Carolina School of Medicine—Greenville, Greenville, SC, USA
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13
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Hevir N, Ribič-Pucelj M, Lanišnik Rižner T. Disturbed balance between phase I and II metabolizing enzymes in ovarian endometriosis: a source of excessive hydroxy-estrogens and ROS? Mol Cell Endocrinol 2013; 367:74-84. [PMID: 23277161 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2012.12.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2012] [Revised: 11/22/2012] [Accepted: 12/19/2012] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Oxidative metabolism of estrogens was studied in 31 ovarian endometriosis and 29 normal endometrium samples, by qPCR. Expression was monitored for genes encoding five estrogen hydroxylating, five hydroxy (OH)-estrogen conjugating, and three estrogen quinone detoxifying enzymes. CYP1B1, COMT, NQO1, and GSTP1 protein levels were determined using Western blotting and immunohistochemistry staining. Increased expression of CYP1A1, CYP3A7 and COMT, and higher levels of MB-COMT were seen in endometriosis, as compared to normal endometrium. Expression of CYP1B1, CYP3A5, SULT1A1 and NQO2 was unchanged, with comparable CYP1B1 protein levels. Expression of SULT1E1, SULT2B1, UGT2B7, NQO1, and GSTP1 was decreased. Three NQO1 isoforms were detected; NQO1c appears to be endometriosis-specific. Our data indicate a disturbed balance between phase I and II metabolizing enzymes in endometriosis, potentially leading to excessive OH-estrogen and altered ROS formation, and stimulation of proliferation of ectopic endometrium. This is the first report on disturbed expression of estrogen oxidative metabolism genes in ovarian endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neli Hevir
- Institute of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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14
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Environmental Influences on the Development of Endometriosis. JOURNAL OF ENDOMETRIOSIS AND PELVIC PAIN DISORDERS 2013. [DOI: 10.5301/je.5000153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Purpose Several environmental toxicants (ETs), including dioxins and dioxin-like compounds (DLCs), perfluorochemicals, organochlorine pesticides, phthalates, and heavy metals (especially cadmium with its estrogen-like properties in animal models) have been investigated as possibly being related to endometriosis. Methods Systematic review of pertinent literature. Results DLCs have been the most investigated ETs. DLCs are persistent organic pollutants with highly toxic potential and include three types of compounds: polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (PCDDs), polychlorinated dibenzofurans (PCDFs) or furans, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). The most toxic is 2, 3, 7, 8- tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD). The connection mechanism between dioxins and endometriosis is still unclear. However, dioxins and DLCs are endocrine-disrupting compounds that can affect the pathobiology of endometriosis at multiple levels. Part of the dioxin and DLCs toxic effects can be accounted for by their interaction with the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR). It has been proposed that dioxin can initiate or promote endometriosis by means of interaction with estrogen receptors or by suppressing the expression of progesterone receptors. Furthermore, TCDD alters the expression of cytokines and growth factors, remodeling enzymes and cytochrome P450 expression and activity. Conclusions Studies in rhesus models have revealed a correlation between dioxin exposure and endometriosis. However, evidence from epidemiologic studies is inconclusive.
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May K, Villar J, Kirtley S, Kennedy S, Becker C. Endometrial alterations in endometriosis: a systematic review of putative biomarkers. Hum Reprod Update 2011; 17:637-53. [DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmr013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 168] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
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16
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Jablonska O, Piasecka J, Ostrowska M, Sobocinska N, Wasowska B, Wasowka B, Ciereszko RE. The expression of the aryl hydrocarbon receptor in reproductive and neuroendocrine tissues during the estrous cycle in the pig. Anim Reprod Sci 2011; 126:221-8. [PMID: 21715111 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2011.05.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2010] [Revised: 04/30/2011] [Accepted: 05/19/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) has been recognized as a mediator of xenobiotic-induced toxicity. In addition, it was demonstrated that the AhR is able to influence the regulation of reproductive processes in females. The aim of this study was to examine AhR mRNA (real-time PCR) and protein (Western-blot) expression in ovarian follicles and stroma, corpora lutea (CL), oviducts, endometrium, myometrium as well as in medial basal hypothalami (MBH), and anterior (AP) and posterior (PP) pituitaries harvested during the follicular (days 17-19) and luteal (days 8-10) phase of the porcine estrous cycle. The AhR transcript and protein were found in all structures collected during both phases. AhR mRNA expression tended (p=0.06) to be higher in the CL than in follicles. The AhR protein expression in ovarian stroma was higher (p≤0.01) during the follicular than in the luteal phase. Endometrial expression of AhR mRNA was higher (p≤0.01), while AhR protein was lower (p≤0.01) during the follicular phase in comparison to the luteal phase. Within neuroendocrine tissues, AhR mRNA and protein content in hypothalamus were relatively low and did not differ (p>0.05) between phases. In contrast, higher AhR mRNA expression in AP (p≤0.001) and protein expression in PP (p≤0.01) were found during the luteal phase compared to the follicular phase. Differences in AhR expression observed in reproductive and neuroendocrine tissues during the follicular and luteal phase of the estrous cycle indicate the involvement of AhR in the regulation of reproductive function in pigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Jablonska
- Department of Animal Physiology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowski 1A, Olsztyn, Poland
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Abstract
A recent survey in the United States identified 287 different chemicals in human cord blood, demonstrating the significant exposure of women and their children to a wide array of environmental toxicants. While reducing contamination and exposure should be an international priority, it is equally appropriate to develop an understanding of the health consequences of increasing world-wide industrialization. Endometriosis, a disease of the female reproductive tract, has emerged as a disease potentially related to environmental exposures. While a number of population-based studies have suggested that a woman's exposure to dioxin-like polychlorinated biphenyls may affect her risk of developing this disease, other studies have failed to find such evidence. In the current manuscript, we will review the limited data regarding polychlorinated biphenyl congeners and endometriosis with a focus on dioxin-like toxicants. We will also discuss the potential importance of early life exposures to these toxicants on the subsequent development of endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaylon L Bruner-Tran
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232-2519, USA
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Bruner-Tran KL, Yeaman GR, Crispens MA, Igarashi TM, Osteen KG. Dioxin may promote inflammation-related development of endometriosis. Fertil Steril 2008; 89:1287-98. [PMID: 18394613 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2008.02.102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2007] [Revised: 02/08/2008] [Accepted: 02/08/2008] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Laboratory and population-based studies suggest that exposure to environmental toxicants may be one of several triggers for the development of endometriosis. We discuss evidence that modulation of the endometrial endocrine-immune interface could mechanistically link toxicant exposure to the development of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaylon L Bruner-Tran
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, USA
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19
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Foster WG. Endocrine toxicants including 2,3,7,8-terachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) and dioxin-like chemicals and endometriosis: is there a link? JOURNAL OF TOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. PART B, CRITICAL REVIEWS 2008; 11:177-187. [PMID: 18368552 DOI: 10.1080/10937400701873456] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a common gynecologic disease of unknown etiology affecting approximately 10-15% of women of reproductive age and 50% of infertile women. Estrogen dependence and immune modulation are established features of endometriosis but do not adequately explain the cause of this disorder. In recent years evidence indicated that exposure to environmental toxicants possessing estrogenic activity resulted in endometriosis. However, scant hospital-based case-control studies yielded inconsistent findings and thus did not provide a compelling argument for or against an association between environmental toxicant exposure and endometriosis. Results of animal studies and cell culture experiments, however, suggested that it is biologically plausible for environmental toxicants to affect the pathobiology of endometriosis. In this article, the literature linking environmental toxicants with endometriosis was reviewed and the link with endocrine toxicants discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Warren G Foster
- Centre for Reproductive Care, Hamilton Health Sciences, and Reproductive Biology Division, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.
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Kim JY, Chung JY, Park JE, Lee SG, Kim YJ, Cha MS, Han MS, Lee HJ, Yoo YH, Kim JM. Benzo[a]pyrene induces apoptosis in RL95-2 human endometrial cancer cells by cytochrome P450 1A1 activation. Endocrinology 2007; 148:5112-22. [PMID: 17640999 DOI: 10.1210/en.2007-0096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Benzo[a]pyrene (B[a]P) has been shown to be an inducer of apoptosis in some cell types. To date, due to the lack of an appropriate model system, studies of the cellular and biochemical mechanism(s) by which B[a]P induces apoptosis have been focused on Hepa1c1c7 cells. Moreover, the precise relationship between the bioactivation of B[a]P by CYP1A1 or CYP1B1 and the occurrence of cytotoxicity-mediated apoptosis requires further elucidation. In the present study, we showed that B[a]P-induced apoptosis in RL95-2 cells is accompanied by the activation of caspases. In addition, the mitochondrial changes, including the decrease of mitochondrial potential and the release of mitochondrial cytochrome c and second mitochondria-derived activator of caspases/direct inhibitor of apoptosis protein binding protein with low PI (Smac/DIABLO) into the cytosol, support the suggestion that the mitochondrial pathway is robustly associated with B[a]P-evoked apoptosis. This study showed the involvement of the nuclear translocation of mitochondrial apoptosis-inducing factor in B[a]P-induced apoptosis of RL95-2 cells. Exposure to B[a]P up-regulates aryl hydrocarbon receptor, heat-shock protein 90, cytochrome P450 1A1 (CYP1A1), cytochrome P450 1B1 (CYP1B1), and epoxide hydrolase significantly, which might be prerequisites for the conversion of B[a]P to B[a]P-7,8-dihydroxy-9,10-epoxide. Although both CYP1A1 and CYP1B1 proteins were up-regulated significantly by B[a]P, only CYP1A1 exhibited activity. Thus, CYP1A1 is believed to be a central oxidative enzyme that is ultimately required for formation of B[a]P-7,8-dihydroxy-9,10-epoxide from B[a]P in RL95-2 cells. Altogether, our data showed that RL95-2 cells are susceptible to apoptosis by exposure to B[a]P and that B[a]P-evoked apoptosis is mediated predominantly by the activation of CYP1A1. Here we suggest that RL95-2 cells are an excellent model for the investigation of xenobiotic mechanisms associated with CYP1A1 as well as CYP1B1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Young Kim
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, College of Medicine, Dong-A University, Dongdaeshin-dong 3-1, Seo-gu, Busan 602-714, Korea
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22
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Igarashi TM, Bruner-Tran KL, Yeaman GR, Lessey BA, Edwards DP, Eisenberg E, Osteen KG. Reduced expression of progesterone receptor-B in the endometrium of women with endometriosis and in cocultures of endometrial cells exposed to 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin. Fertil Steril 2005; 84:67-74. [PMID: 16009159 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2005.01.113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2004] [Revised: 01/20/2005] [Accepted: 01/20/2005] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To analyze endometrial progesterone receptor (PR) expression in women with endometriosis compared with disease-free women and to assess the impact of in vitro 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD) exposure on PR isotype expression. DESIGN Controlled laboratory study. SETTING University medical center. PATIENT(S) Healthy volunteers and women with surgically diagnosed endometriosis. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Analysis of in vivo PR-A and PR-B expression in endometrium from women with and without endometriosis. The impact of in vitro TCDD exposure on PR-B/PR-A ratio and cell-specific matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) expression was also determined. RESULT(S) The PR-B/PR-A ratio was lower in endometrial tissues from women with endometriosis compared with normal tissues. A similar ratio was induced in normal stromal cells cocultured with epithelial cells and exposed to TCDD. Disruption of stromal PR expression following TCDD exposure was associated with a failure of P-mediated down-regulation of both stromal-specific pro-MMP-3 and epithelial-specific pro-MMP-7. CONCLUSION(S) Our data suggest that reduced progesterone (P) sensitivity in the endometrium of women with endometriosis may be related to an altered pattern of PR expression. The ability of TCDD to selectively down-regulate stromal PR-B expression and increase MMP expression in both stromal and epithelial cells suggests that exposure to this toxin may negatively impact P-mediated cell-cell communication in the human endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshio M Igarashi
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee 37232, USA
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23
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Kitajima M, Khan KN, Fujishita A, Masuzaki H, Koji T, Ishimaru T. Expression of the arylhydrocarbon receptor in the peri-implantation period of the mouse uterus and the impact of dioxin on mouse implantation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005; 67:465-74. [PMID: 15781987 DOI: 10.1679/aohc.67.465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The arylhydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a nuclear transcription factor mediating toxic effects of chemicals such as dioxins. The 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), a member of polyhalogenated aromatic hydrocarbons family, exerts a wide-variety of toxic effects in a tissue- and species-specific manner including the reproduction process. Recently, AhR-mediated direct effects of TCDD on a cell-specific interaction with ovarian steroids have been shown. However, information regarding the effects of TCDD on the mouse implantation is limited. We therefore examined the expression and localization of AhR in the pregnant mouse uterus from 4 to 10 days of gestation (day 4 to day 10) using immunohistochemistry to investigate the effect of TCDD on uterine tissue during the peri-implantation period. Intense AhR expression was detected in the uterine vasculature throughout the periods examined. We also found that implanted blastocysts and their surrounding luminal epithelia and decidualized stroma expressed AhR on day 5. On days 6 and 7, persistent AhR expression was found in the transitional zone between the invading embryonic tissue and decidual tissue. On days 9 to 10, placental vasculature and spongiotrophoblasts displayed AhR immunoreactivity. The administration of TCDD on day 4 decreased the number of surviving implanted embryos on day 7 in a dose-dependent manner. This effect of TCDD was inhibited by the simultaneous administration of an AhR antagonist, alpha-naphthoflavone (alpha-NF). The spatio-temporal expression of AhR during the peri-implantation phase of the mouse uterus may indicate functional roles of this orphan receptor in fetomaternal interactions as well as substantiate the risk of exposure to chemicals such as dioxins during the reproductive period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michio Kitajima
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nagasaki University School of Medicine, 1-7-1 Sakamoto, Nagasaki 852-8102, Japan.
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Tsutsumi O. Assessment of human contamination of estrogenic endocrine-disrupting chemicals and their risk for human reproduction. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2005; 93:325-30. [PMID: 15860277 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2004.12.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 90] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
There is broad human exposure to estrogenic endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), but the data sets that exist are primarily for various environmental media such as food and water rather than the most relevant internal exposure. We have detected various kind of EDC contamination in humans including dioxin and bisphenol A (BPA) widely used for the production of plastic products. BPA was present in serum and follicular fluid at approximately 1-2 ng/ml, as well as in fetal serum and full-term amniotic fluid, confirming passage through the placenta. An approximately five-fold higher concentration, 8.3+/-8.7 ng/ml, was revealed in amniotic fluid at 15-18 weeks of gestation, compared to other fluids showing increased exposure at the critical developmental period in humans. Interestingly, serum BPA concentrations were significantly higher in normal men and in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) compared with normal women possibly due to differences in the androgen-related metabolism of BPA. These findings may provide some insight into the metabolism of EDCs in human and the pathophysiology of endocrine disorders such as PCOS. Dioxin contamination in relationship to development of endometriosis is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Osamu Tsutsumi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tokyo, Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 113-8655, Japan.
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D'Hooghe TM, Debrock S, Meuleman C, Hill JA, Mwenda JM. Future directions in endometriosis research. Obstet Gynecol Clin North Am 2003; 30:221-44. [PMID: 12699268 DOI: 10.1016/s0889-8545(02)00063-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Future research in endometriosis must focus on pathogenesis studies in the baboon model, the early interactions between endometrial and peritoneal cells in the pelvic cavity at the time of menstruation, and potential differences between eutopic endometrium and myometrium in women with and without endometriosis. More integration is needed between the areas of epidemiology and genetics. Pelvic inflammation in women with endometriosis could be the target for new diagnostic and therapeutic approaches. Important questions remain regarding the relationship between endometriosis and environmental factors. Systemic and extrapelvic manifestations of endometriosis must be analyzed carefully, and better tools are needed to measure quality of life in women with chronic pain caused by endometriosis. Most current evidence supports a causal relationship between endometriosis and subfertility, and the spontaneous progressive nature of endometriosis has been demonstrated in 30% to 60% of patients. Recurrence of endometriosis after classic medical and surgical therapy is a major and underestimated problem, especially in women with advanced disease. Integrated clinical and research teams are needed that combine expert medical, surgical, and holistic care with state-of-the-art research expertise in immunology, endocrinology, and genetics to discover new diagnostic methods and medical treatments for endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas M D'Hooghe
- Leuven University Fertility Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Gasthuisberg, 3000 Leuven, Belgium.
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26
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Oikawa K, Kosugi Y, Ohbayashi T, Kameta A, Isaka K, Takayama M, Kuroda M, Mukai K. Increased expression of IgE-dependent histamine-releasing factor in endometriotic implants. J Pathol 2003; 199:318-23. [PMID: 12579533 DOI: 10.1002/path.1299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
A complex network of cytokines mediates the immunoregulatory responses leading to endometriosis. Recent intensive studies suggest that monocyte and T cell chemoattractants contribute to the inflammatory environment of endometriotic implants. The relationship between the inflammation present during endometriosis and the development of endometriotic implants in the peritoneal cavity remains unclear. On the other hand, the association between endometriosis and 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD; dioxin) exposure has been discussed in recent years, and our previous results revealed that IgE-dependent histamine-releasing factor (HRF) is inducible by TCDD. The present study aimed to clarify the expression, localization, and function of HRF in endometriosis. Northern blot analysis demonstrated that HRF is overexpressed in endometriotic implants. RT-PCR with Southern blot analysis, however, showed that HRF overexpression was not always accompanied by CYP1A1 induction in endometriotic implants, suggesting that HRF is inducible in endometriosis without exposure to TCDD. HRF is also inducible by macrophage colony-stimulating factor (M-CSF). Immunohistochemistry showed CD68-positive macrophages in the stroma of endometriotic implants, adjacent to regions with prominent HRF accumulation. HRF-overexpressing cells exhibited high implantation efficiency in comparison to control cells when the cells were injected into the peritoneal cavities of nude mice. These results suggest that the accumulation of macrophages in endometriotic implants induces HRF; the overexpression of HRF accelerates the growth of endometriotic implants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kosuke Oikawa
- Department of Pathology, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
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27
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Abstract
Endometriosis is a common gynecologic disorder characterized by the presence of endometrial tissue outside the uterine cavity. Various theories have been put forth to explain the mechanisms for the development of this disease. Although no single theory can explain all cases of endometriosis, the retrograde menstruation theory has gained the widest acceptance. This theory proposes that viable endometrial tissue is refluxed through the fallopian tubes during menstruation and implants on peritoneal surface or pelvic organs. Retrograde menstruation occurs in 76% to 90% of women. The much lower prevalence of endometriosis suggests that additional factors determine susceptibility to endometriosis. Once in the peritoneal cavity, the survival and implantation of endometrial cells seem to be mediated by abnormal MMP and TIMP expression, altered immune milieu, aberrant local aromatase activity, and genetic and environmental factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emre Seli
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Yale University School of Medicine, 333 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT 06520-8063, USA
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28
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Foster WG, Agarwal SK. Environmental contaminants and dietary factors in endometriosis. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2002; 955:213-29; discussion 230-2, 396-406. [PMID: 11949949 DOI: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.2002.tb02782.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Endometriosis is an estrogen-dependent disease characterized by the presence of endometrial glands and stroma outside the uterine cavity. The etiology of this disease remains elusive, but is clearly influenced by genetic, immune, and endocrine factors. Exposure to environmental contaminants has recently been added to the list of potential factors that contribute to the pathogenesis of endometriosis. The objective of this paper is to review the weight of the evidence from hospital-based case-control studies and animal experiments for an association between exposure to environmental contaminants and endometriosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Warren G Foster
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA.
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Komura K, Hayashi S, Makino I, Poellinger L, Tanaka H. Aryl hydrocarbon receptor/dioxin receptor in human monocytes and macrophages. Mol Cell Biochem 2001; 226:107-18. [PMID: 11768231 DOI: 10.1023/a:1012762519424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) belongs to the bHLH/PAS transcription factor family and is activated by various polycyclic or halogenated aromatic hydrocarbons, e.g. 2,3,7,8-tetrachlorodibenzo-p-dioxin (TCDD), 3-methylcholanthrene (3MC). In the present study, we showed that in U937 cells and human macrophages AhR, with its partner cofactor Arnt, is expressed and CYP1A1 mRNA expression is induced in the presence of AhR ligand 3MC. Moreover, we showed that AhR, associating with Arnt, binds to target DNA sequences and activates transcription. Since part of AhR is activated into DNA binding species in the absence of exogenous ligand and competitive AhR antagonist alpha-naphthoflavone inhibits this activation process with reducing CYP1A1 mRNA expression levels, the presence of endogenous ligand is indicated.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Komura
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, Asahikawa Medical College, Midorigaoka Higashi, Japan
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