1
|
Gualdoni GS, Barril C, Jacobo PV, Pacheco Rodríguez LN, Cebral E. Involvement of metalloproteinase and nitric oxide synthase/nitric oxide mechanisms in early decidual angiogenesis-vascularization of normal and experimental pathological mouse placenta related to maternal alcohol exposure. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1207671. [PMID: 37670932 PMCID: PMC10476144 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1207671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Accepted: 07/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Successful pregnancy for optimal fetal growth requires adequate early angiogenesis and remodeling of decidual spiral arterioles during placentation. Prior to the initiation of invasion and endothelial replacement by trophoblasts, interactions between decidual stromal cells and maternal leukocytes, such as uterine natural killer cells and macrophages, play crucial roles in the processes of early maternal vascularization, such as proliferation, apoptosis, migration, differentiation, and matrix and vessel remodeling. These placental angiogenic events are highly dependent on the coordination of several mechanisms at the early maternal-fetal interface, and one of them is the expression and activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and endothelial nitric oxide synthases (NOSs). Inadequate balances of MMPs and nitric oxide (NO) are involved in several placentopathies and pregnancy complications. Since alcohol consumption during gestation can affect fetal growth associated with abnormal placental development, recently, we showed, in a mouse model, that perigestational alcohol consumption up to organogenesis induces fetal malformations related to deficient growth and vascular morphogenesis of the placenta at term. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge of the early processes of maternal vascularization that lead to the formation of the definitive placenta and the roles of angiogenic MMP and NOS/NO mechanisms during normal and altered early gestation in mice. Then, we propose hypothetical defective decidual cellular and MMP and NOS/NO mechanisms involved in abnormal decidual vascularization induced by perigestational alcohol consumption in an experimental mouse model. This review highlights the important roles of decidual cells and their MMP and NOS balances in the physiological and pathophysiological early maternal angiogenesis-vascularization during placentation in mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Elisa Cebral
- Laboratorio de Reproducción y Fisiología Materno-Embrionaria, Instituto de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental y Aplicada (IBBEA), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (CONICET), Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental (DBBE), Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Zhai J, Ma L, Chang Z, Yu T. Increased expression of prokineticin 2 and its receptor in endometrium of recurrent implantation failure patients decreased the expression of MMP9 important for decidualization. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:76. [PMID: 35501804 PMCID: PMC9059424 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-00947-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies have shown that abnormalities in the decidualization process were closely related to recurrent implantation failure (RIF). Prokineticin 2 (PK2) is a secreted protein with angiogenic and tissue remodeling functions but its role in the endometrium is unknown. METHODS PK2 levels and its receptor PKR1 mRNA and protein levels in mid-secretory endometrium from normal and RIF women were examined by real-time PCR and western blotting, respectively. The effects of PK2 were evaluated by overexpressed PK2 in immortalized endometrial T-HESC cells using lentivirus vector and found different expression of Matrix metalloproteinase 9(MMP9) and lncRNA LUCAT1 by RNA-sequencing. The ability of PK2 to regulate LUCAT1 and MMP9 was verified in endometrial cells by real-time PCR and western blotting. RESULTS Using endometrial biopsies from normal and RIF patients, we found increased expression of PK2, together with its receptor PKR1 in RIF patients. We then overexpressed PK2 in immortalized endometrial T-HESC cells using lentivirus vector and found decreased expression of Matrix metalloproteinase 9(MMP9), and increased expression of lncRNA LUCAT1. We verified the ability of PK2 to stimulate LUCAT1 and decrease MMP9 in endometrial cells. We further demonstrated that increased expression of a long noncoding RNA LUCAT1 and decreased expression of MMP9 in endometrial biopsies of patients with RIF. Thus, we highlighted the important role of PK2 and its receptor PKR1 in decidualization and RIF. CONCLUSION Prokineticin 2 and its receptor are important in endometrium decidualization. PK2 may affect endometrial decidualization through the LUCAT1- MMP9 pathway, thereby affecting embryo implantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jun Zhai
- grid.412633.10000 0004 1799 0733Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- grid.412633.10000 0004 1799 0733Henan Provincial Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases (Reproductive Medicine) Clinical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Linna Ma
- grid.412633.10000 0004 1799 0733Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- grid.412633.10000 0004 1799 0733Henan Provincial Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases (Reproductive Medicine) Clinical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ziyin Chang
- grid.412633.10000 0004 1799 0733Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- grid.412633.10000 0004 1799 0733Henan Provincial Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases (Reproductive Medicine) Clinical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Ting Yu
- grid.412633.10000 0004 1799 0733Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- grid.412633.10000 0004 1799 0733Henan Provincial Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases (Reproductive Medicine) Clinical Research Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gualdoni G, Gomez Castro G, Hernández R, Barbeito C, Cebral E. Comparative matrix metalloproteinase-2 and -9 expression and activity during endotheliochorial and hemochorial trophoblastic invasiveness. Tissue Cell 2021; 74:101698. [PMID: 34871824 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2021.101698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 11/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
To establish a functional placenta, its development needs adequate trophoblastic invasiveness. The intricate and complex morphological and molecular aspects regulating trophoblastic invasion during endotheliochorial placentation of domestic carnivores and their similarities and differences with the hemochorial placenta are still poorly understood. During placentation processes, from the time of implantation, trophoblast cells invade the uterine endometrium where they achieve extensive degradation and remodeling of extracellular matrix components; in this process, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), particularly MMP-2 and 9, have an essential role in rebuilding, cell migration, and invasiveness. This review provides an overview of comparative trophoblast invasive events and the expression and activity of MMP-2 and 9 during endotheliochorial and hemochorial placentation, emphasizing dog and mouse placental models. Understanding of trophoblastic invasiveness in two models of placentation, the intermediately invasive domestic carnivore endotheliochorial placenta, and the more highly invasive mouse hemochorial placenta, contributes to deepen knowledge of the trophoblast invasive processes and their diverse and complex human placental alterations, such as preeclampsia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gisela Gualdoni
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Argentina; CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental y Aplicada (IBBEA-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina; Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental (DBBE), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gimena Gomez Castro
- Laboratorio de Histología y Embriología Descriptiva, Experimental y Comparada (LHYEDEC). Cátedra de Histología y Embriología. Departamento de Ciencias Básicas, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de La Plata (UNLP), La Plata, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Argentina
| | - Rocío Hernández
- Laboratorio de Histología y Embriología Descriptiva, Experimental y Comparada (LHYEDEC). Cátedra de Histología y Embriología. Departamento de Ciencias Básicas, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de La Plata (UNLP), La Plata, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Argentina
| | - Claudio Barbeito
- Laboratorio de Histología y Embriología Descriptiva, Experimental y Comparada (LHYEDEC). Cátedra de Histología y Embriología. Departamento de Ciencias Básicas, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de La Plata (UNLP), La Plata, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Argentina
| | - Elisa Cebral
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Argentina; CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental y Aplicada (IBBEA-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina; Departamento de Biodiversidad y Biología Experimental (DBBE), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Li K, Li Q, Bashir ST, Bany BM, Nowak RA. Loss of basigin expression in uterine cells leads to subfertility in female mice†. Biol Reprod 2021; 105:859-875. [PMID: 34106247 PMCID: PMC8511667 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2020] [Revised: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Basigin (BSG) is a transmembrane glycoprotein involved in cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and tissue remodeling. BSG has been shown to be essential for male and female reproduction although little is known about its role in normal uterine function. To study the potential function of BSG in the female reproductive tract, we generated mice with conditional knockout of Bsg in uterine cells using progesterone receptor-Cre and hypothesized that BSG is required for normal pregnancy in mice. Fertility study data showed that the conditional knockout mice had significantly reduced fertility compared to controls. Ovarian function of the conditional knockout mice appeared normal with no difference in the number of superovulated oocytes collected or in serum progesterone levels between the conditional knockout and the control mice. Uterine tissues collected at various times of gestation showed increased abnormalities in implantation, decidualization, placentation, and parturition in the conditional knockout mice. Uterine cross sections on Day 5 of pregnancy showed implantation failure and abnormal uterine epithelial differentiation in a large proportion of the conditional knockout mice. There was a compromised decidual response to artificial decidualization stimuli and decreased mRNA and protein levels for decidualization genes in the uteri of the conditional knockout mice. We also observed altered protein expression of monocarboxylate transporter 1 (MCT1), as well as impaired angiogenesis in the conditional knockout uteri compared to the controls. These results support that BSG is required for successful pregnancy through its functions in implantation and decidualization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kailiang Li
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Quanxi Li
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Shah Tauseef Bashir
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Brent M Bany
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, IL, USA
| | - Romana A Nowak
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
A hypoxia-induced Rab pathway regulates embryo implantation by controlled trafficking of secretory granules. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2020; 117:14532-14542. [PMID: 32513733 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2000810117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Implantation is initiated when an embryo attaches to the uterine luminal epithelium and subsequently penetrates into the underlying stroma to firmly embed in the endometrium. These events are followed by the formation of an extensive vascular network in the stroma that supports embryonic growth and ensures successful implantation. Interestingly, in many mammalian species, these processes of early pregnancy occur in a hypoxic environment. However, the mechanisms underlying maternal adaptation to hypoxia during early pregnancy remain unclear. In this study, using a knockout mouse model, we show that the transcription factor hypoxia-inducible factor 2 alpha (Hif2α), which is induced in subluminal stromal cells at the time of implantation, plays a crucial role during early pregnancy. Indeed, when preimplantation endometrial stromal cells are exposed to hypoxic conditions in vitro, we observed a striking enhancement in HIF2α expression. Further studies revealed that HIF2α regulates the expression of several metabolic and protein trafficking factors, including RAB27B, at the onset of implantation. RAB27B is a member of the Rab family of GTPases that allows controlled release of secretory granules. These granules are involved in trafficking MMP-9 from the stroma to the epithelium to promote luminal epithelial remodeling during embryo invasion. As pregnancy progresses, the HIF2α-RAB27B pathway additionally mediates crosstalk between stromal and endothelial cells via VEGF granules, developing the vascular network critical for establishing pregnancy. Collectively, our study provides insights into the intercellular communication mechanisms that operate during adaptation to hypoxia, which is essential for embryo implantation and establishment of pregnancy.
Collapse
|
6
|
A complex of novel protease inhibitor, ovostatin homolog, with its cognate proteases in immature mice uterine luminal fluid. Sci Rep 2019; 9:4973. [PMID: 30899053 PMCID: PMC6428836 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-41426-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2018] [Accepted: 03/05/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
A predominant gelatinolytic enzyme with approximately 26 kDa was observed in gelatin zymogram of immature mice uterine luminal fluid (ULF). Size exclusion analysis revealed that the native size of this enzyme was close to that of human α2-macroglobulin (α2-MG), a 725 kDa protein. This large protease was isolated by a series of chromatographic steps on the Sephacryl S-400 and DEAE-Sepharose columns. The results from gelatin zymography and SDS-PAGE analysis supported that this large protease consists of gelatinolytic enzyme and a 360 kDa protein. Through tandem mass spectrometry analysis followed by MASCOT database search, the 360 kDa protein was identified as ovostatin homolog (accession: NP_001001179.2) assigned as a homolog of chicken ovostatin, a protease inhibitor. The co-fractionation analysis by gel filtration and mouse ovostatin homolog (mOH) co-immunoprecipitation experiments demonstrated that the mOH formed a complex with three gelatinolytic enzymes in immature mice ULF. Substrate zymography analysis revealed that the mOH-associated gelatinolytic enzymes were suitable to digest type I collagen rather than type IV collagen. In addition, the refolded mOH-associated 26 kDa gelatinolytic enzyme displayed the type I collagen-digesting activity in the assay, but the other two enzymes did not have this function. RT-PCR analysis showed that mOH gene was abundantly expressed in brain, spinal cord, lung, uterus, and in 17-day embryo. Taken together, our data suggest that mOH/cognate protease system may play a potential role in regulation of tissue remodeling and fetal development.
Collapse
|
7
|
Böing M, Brand-Saberi B, Napirei M. Murine transcription factor Math6 is a regulator of placenta development. Sci Rep 2018; 8:14997. [PMID: 30301918 PMCID: PMC6177472 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-33387-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2018] [Accepted: 09/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The murine basic helix-loop-helix transcription (bHLH) factor mouse atonal homolog 6 (Math6) is expressed in numerous organs and supposed to be involved in several developmental processes. However, so far neither all aspects nor the molecular mechanisms of Math6 function have been explored exhaustively. To analyze the in vivo function of Math6 in detail, we generated a constitutive knockout (KO) mouse (Math6−/−) and performed an initial histological and molecular biological investigation of its main phenotype. Pregnant Math6−/− females suffer from a disturbed early placental development leading to the death of the majority of embryos independent of the embryonic Math6 genotype. A few placentas and fetuses survive the severe uterine hemorrhagic events at late mid-gestation (E13.5) and subsequently develop regularly. However, these fetuses could not be born due to obstructions within the gravid uterus, which hinder the birth process. Characterization of the endogenous spatiotemporal Math6 expression during placenta development reveals that Math6 is essential for an ordered decidualization and an important regulator of the maternal-fetal endocrine crosstalk regulating endometrial trophoblast invasion and differentiation. The strongly disturbed vascularization observed in the maternal placenta appears as an additional consequence of the altered endocrine status and as the main cause for the general hemorrhagic crisis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marion Böing
- Ruhr University Bochum, Institute of Anatomy, Department of Anatomy and Molecular Embryology, Bochum, Germany
| | - Beate Brand-Saberi
- Ruhr University Bochum, Institute of Anatomy, Department of Anatomy and Molecular Embryology, Bochum, Germany.
| | - Markus Napirei
- Ruhr University Bochum, Institute of Anatomy, Department of Anatomy and Molecular Embryology, Bochum, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Latifi Z, Fattahi A, Ranjbaran A, Nejabati HR, Imakawa K. Potential roles of metalloproteinases of endometrium-derived exosomes in embryo-maternal crosstalk during implantation. J Cell Physiol 2017; 233:4530-4545. [PMID: 29115666 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.26259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2017] [Accepted: 10/09/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
During embryo implantation, crosstalk between the endometrial epithelium and the blastocyst, especially the trophoblasts, is a prerequisite for successful implantation. During this crosstalk, various molecular and functional changes occur to promote synchrony between the embryo and the endometrium as well as the uterine cavity microenvironment. In the past few years, growing evidence has shown that endometrium-derived exosomes play pivotal roles in the embryonic-maternal crosstalk during implantation, although the exact mechanism of this crosstalk has yet to be determined. The presence of metalloproteinases has been reported in endometrium-derived exosomes, implying the importance of these enzymes in exosome-based crosstalk. Thus, in this review, we describe the potential roles of the metalloproteinases of endometrium-derived exosomes in promoting embryo attachment and implantation. This study could provide a better understanding of the potential roles of exosomal metalloproteinases in embryo implantation and pave the way for developing novel exosome-based regulatory agents to support early pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zeinab Latifi
- Animal Resource Science Center, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Ibaraki, Japan.,Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir Fattahi
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ali Ranjbaran
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Hamid Reza Nejabati
- Women's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Kazuhiko Imakawa
- Animal Resource Science Center, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Ibaraki, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Bai ZK, Li DD, Guo CH, Yang ZQ, Cao H, Guo B, Yue ZP. Differential expression and regulation of Runx1 in mouse uterus during the peri-implantation period. Cell Tissue Res 2015; 362:231-40. [DOI: 10.1007/s00441-015-2174-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2014] [Accepted: 03/18/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
|
10
|
Differential expression and regulation of Ido2 in the mouse uterus during peri-implantation period. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 2014; 51:264-72. [PMID: 25408380 DOI: 10.1007/s11626-014-9833-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2014] [Accepted: 10/01/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Ido2 is involved in tryptophan catabolism and immunity, but its physiological functions remain poorly understood. This study was undertaken to examine the expression and regulation of Ido2 gene in mouse uterus during the peri-implantation period. The results showed that Ido2 mRNA was highly expressed on day 4 of pregnancy and in the delayed implantation uterus. On days 5-8 of pregnancy, a low level of Ido2 expression was observed in the uteri. Simultaneously, Ido2 mRNA was also lowly expressed in the decidualized uterus. In the uterine stromal cells, 8-Br-cAMP could inhibit the expression of Ido2 mRNA. Moreover, Ido2 mRNA expression was gradually decreased after the stromal cells were treated with estrogen and progesterone and reached a nadir at 96 h. Further study found that overexpression of Ido2 could downregulate the expression of decidualization marker genes PRL, IGFBP1, and Dtprp under in vitro decidualization, while inhibition of Ido2 with devo-1-methyl-tryptophan (D-1-MT) could upregulate the expression of these marker genes. Under in vitro decidualization, overexpression of Ido2 could suppress the proliferation of uterine stromal cells and elevate the expression of Bax and MMP2 genes. On the contrary, Ido2 inhibitor D-1-MT could enhance the proliferation of stromal cells and expression of Bcl2 gene but decline the Bax/Bcl2 ratio. In the uterine stromal cells, estrogen and progesterone could induce the expression of Ido2 mRNA. These data indicate that Ido2 may be important for mouse embryo implantation and decidualization.
Collapse
|
11
|
Fontana V, Coll TA, Sobarzo CMA, Tito LP, Calvo JC, Cebral E. Matrix metalloproteinase expression and activity in trophoblast-decidual tissues at organogenesis in CF-1 mouse. J Mol Histol 2012; 43:487-96. [PMID: 22714107 DOI: 10.1007/s10735-012-9429-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2012] [Accepted: 05/28/2012] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
During early placentation, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) play important roles in decidualization, trophoblast migration, invasion, angiogenesis, vascularization and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling of the endometrium. The aim of our study was to analyze the localization, distribution and differential expression of MMP-2 and -9 in the organogenic implantation site and to evaluate in vivo and in vitro decidual MMP-2 and -9 activities on day 10 of gestation in CF-1 mouse. Whole extracts for Western blotting of organogenic E10-decidua expressed MMP-2 and -9 isoforms. MMP-2 immunoreactivity was found in a granular and discrete pattern in ECM of mesometrial decidua (MD) near maternal blood vessels and slightly in non-decidualized endometrium (NDE). Immunoexpression of MMP-9 was also detected in NDE, in cytoplasm of decidual cells and ECM of vascular MD, in trophoblastic area and in growing antimesometrial deciduum. Gelatin zymography showed that MMP-9 activity was significantly lower in CM compared to the active form of direct (not cultured) and cultured decidua. The decidual active MMP-9 was significantly higher than the active MMP-2. These results show differential localization, protein expression and enzymatic activation of MMPs, suggesting specific roles for MMP-2 and MMP-9 in decidual and trophoblast tissues related to organogenic ECM remodeling and vascularization during early establishment of mouse placentation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vanina Fontana
- Laboratorio de Química de Proteoglicanos y Matriz Extracelular, Depto. de Química Biológica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Li YF, Xu XB, Chen XH, Wei G, He B, Wang JD. The nuclear factor-κB pathway is involved in matrix metalloproteinase-9 expression in RU486-induced endometrium breakdown in mice. Hum Reprod 2012; 27:2096-106. [PMID: 22587999 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/des110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Progesterone-withdrawal (WP)-induced endometrial breakdown occurs in both physiological and pathological processes such as menstruation and abortion. However, the underlying mechanisms are not clearly understood. As the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway has been proposed to play a role in endometrial breakdown, we tested this hypothesis using RU486-induced mouse menstruation-like model. METHODS The activation of NF-κB was evaluated by immunohistochemistry, western blot and immunofluorescence. The expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9) was analyzed by real-time PCR and its proteins by gelatin zymography and western blot. Chromatin immunoprecipitation was used to investigate the direct binding of NF-κB to MMP9 gene promoter. Inhibitors of NF-κB were used to block its signal in vivo and in vitro to analyze the function of NF-κB in the tissue breakdown process. RESULTS Administration of RU486 resulted in increased phospho-IκB levels and nuclear translocation of p65 in decidual stromal cells, accompanied by the up-regulation of NF-κB inducing kinase and IκB kinase β mRNA. The NF-κB inhibitor, 'pyrrolidine dithiocarbamate' partially suppressed the RU486-induced endometrial breakdown, thus verifying the role of this pathway in vivo. MMP9 was up- and down-regulated following the NF-κB activation and inhibition, respectively. RU486 stimulated recruitment of NF-κB p65 to the MMP9 promoter and further increased its expression. Effects of NF-κB activation and inactivation on MMP9 expression were further explored in human stromal cells in vitro. A similar MMP9 expression pattern was observed in cultured human, as well as mouse, decidual stromal cells following RU486 treatment. CONCLUSIONS The activation of the NF-κB pathway induces downstream target genes, including MMP9 from stromal cells to facilitate tissue breakdown in mouse uterus, highlighting the likelihood that this regulatory pattern exists in the human endometrium.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yun-Feng Li
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, People's Republic of China
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Kawarabayashi Y, Hai L, Honda A, Horiuchi S, Tsujioka H, Ichikawa J, Inoue R. Critical role of TRPC1-mediated Ca²⁺ entry in decidualization of human endometrial stromal cells. Mol Endocrinol 2012; 26:846-58. [PMID: 22474110 PMCID: PMC5417103 DOI: 10.1210/me.2011-1259] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2011] [Accepted: 02/28/2012] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Decidualization is an ovarian steroid-induced remodeling/differentiation process of uterus essential for embryo implantation and placentation. Here, we investigated the possible involvement of enhanced Ca²⁺ dynamics in the decidualization process in human endometrial stromal cells (hESC) in its connection with a recently emerging nonvoltage-gated Ca²⁺ entry channel superfamily, the transient receptor potential (TRP) protein. Combined application of 17β-estradiol (E₂) (10 nM) and progesterone (P₄) (1 μM) for 7-14 d resulted in morphological changes of hESC characteristic of decidualization (i.e. cell size increase), whereas sole application of E₂ exerted little effects. A 7- to 14-d E₂/P₄ treatment greatly increased the expression level of decidualization markers IGF binding protein-1 (IGFBP-1) and prolactin and also up-regulated the expression of TRPC1, a canonical TRP subfamily member that has been implicated in store-operated Ca²⁺ influx (SOC) in other cell types. In parallel with this up-regulation, SOC activity in hESC, the nuclear translocation of phosphorylated cAMP responsive element binding protein (p-CREB) and the expression of Forkhead box protein 01 were enhanced significantly. Small interfering RNA knockdown of TRPC1 counteracted the E₂/P₄-induced up-regulation of IGFBP-1 and prolactin and enhancement of SOC activity together with the inhibition of hESC size increase, p-CREB nuclear translocation, and FOXO1 up-regulation. Coadministration of SOC inhibitors SK&F96365 or Gd³⁺ with E₂/P₄ also suppressed the up-regulation of IGFBP-1 and hESC size increase. Similar inhibitory effects were observed with extracellularly applied TRPC1 extracellular loop 3-directed antibody, which is known to bind a near-pore domain of TRPC1 channel and block its Ca²⁺ transporting activity. These results strongly suggest that up-regulation of TRPC1 protein and consequent enhancement of SOC-mediated Ca²⁺ influx may serve as a crucial step for the decidualization process of hESC probably via p-CREB-dependent transcriptional activity associated with FOXO1 activation.
Collapse
|
14
|
Angiopoietin-like gene expression in the mouse uterus during implantation and in response to steroids. Cell Tissue Res 2012; 348:199-211. [PMID: 22350948 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-012-1337-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2011] [Accepted: 01/19/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this work was to determine if and where Angiopoietin-like genes are expressed in the mouse uterus during the implantation period of pregnancy and to determine if uterine expression of such genes is controlled by estrogen or progesterone. We found that all six known murine angiopoietin-like genes were expressed in the mouse uterus during implantation. The expression of four genes was controlled by either estrogen or progesterone. Only the levels of angiopoietin-like 4 (Angptl4) mRNA dramatically increased in implantation segments of the uterus during decidualization and was conceptus-independent. Due to this increased expression and the fact that angiopoietin-like 4 protein plays a role in lipid metabolism and angiogenesis in other tissues, only the expression of Angptl4 was further examined in the uterus and developing placenta. Angptl4 mRNA was localized to subpopulations of the endometrial stromal fibroblast and endothelial cell populations during decidualization. It was also localized to the ectoplacental cone, trophoblast giant cells and parietal endoderm of the conceptus at this time. By mid-pregnancy, Angptl4 mRNA was localized mainly to the mesometrial lymphoid aggregate region plus mesometrial endothelial cells of the uterus, as well as in various cell types of the conceptus. Additional work showed that Angptl4 expression increases in mouse endometrial stromal cells as they undergo decidualization in vitro. As in other cell types, the expression of Angptl4 in endometrial stromal cells was increased in response to an agonist of the peroxisome proliferator activated receptors. Taken together, the results of this work support the hypothesis that locally expressed Angptl4 might play a role in local uterine/placental lipid metabolism and vascular changes during implantation and thus provide a basis for future research.
Collapse
|
15
|
Huyen DV, Bany BM. Evidence for a conserved function of heart and neural crest derivatives expressed transcript 2 in mouse and human decidualization. Reproduction 2011; 142:353-68. [PMID: 21527398 DOI: 10.1530/rep-11-0060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Previously, we showed that heart and neural crest derivatives expressed transcript 2 (Hand2) mRNA levels dramatically increase in mouse uterine endometrial stromal cells (ESCs) as they undergo decidualization in vivo. However, to date, little is known about the expression and function of this transcription factor in mouse or human uterus decidualization. Therefore, this study was conducted to provide a more detailed assessment of Hand2 gene expression and function in the mouse uterus during the peri-implantation period and also in mouse plus human ESCs during decidualization in vitro. The results show that Hand2 mRNA and protein levels increase in the mouse uterus during decidualization and this does not depend on the presence of a conceptus. Interestingly, Hand2 mRNA and protein are present in ESCs adjacent to the luminal epithelium in the uterus prior to the onset of implantation. We find that progesterone is likely a regulator of Hand2 expression during uterine sensitization of the mouse uterus. Finally, Hand2 expression increases in mouse and human fibroblast cells as they undergo decidualization in vitro. This expression is significantly increased in response to prostaglandin E(2). In particular, reduction of Hand2 expression in these cells using small hairpin RNA or small interfering RNA approaches results in the reduced extent of decidualization as shown by the reduced expression of a subset of decidualization markers. The results of this study support the hypothesis that Hand2 expression not only plays an important role in decidualization but may also play a role in obtaining proper progesterone-dependent uterine sensitization required for implantation to begin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D V Huyen
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, Illinois 62901, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Su RW, Lei W, Liu JL, Zhang ZR, Jia B, Feng XH, Ren G, Hu SJ, Yang ZM. The integrative analysis of microRNA and mRNA expression in mouse uterus under delayed implantation and activation. PLoS One 2010; 5:e15513. [PMID: 21124741 PMCID: PMC2993968 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0015513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2010] [Accepted: 10/09/2010] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Delayed implantation is a developmental arrest at the blastocyst stage and a good model for embryo implantation. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have been shown to be involved in mouse embryo implantation through regulating uterine gene expression. This study was to have an integrative analysis on global miRNA and mRNA expression in mouse uterus under delayed implantation and activation through Illumina sequencing. Methodology/Principal Findings By deep sequencing and analysis, we found that there are 20 miRNAs up-regulated and 42 miRNAs down-regulated at least 1.2 folds, and 268 genes up-regulated and 295 genes down-regulated at least 2 folds under activation compared to delayed implantation, respectively. Many different forms of editing in mature miRNAs are detected. The percentage of editing at positions 4 and 5 of mature miRNAs is significantly higher under delayed implantation than under activation. Although the number of miR-21 reference sequence under activation is slightly lower than that under delayed implantation, the total level of miR-21 under activation is higher than that under delayed implantation. Six novel miRNAs are predicted and confirmed. The target genes of significantly up-regulated miRNAs under activation are significantly enriched. Conclusions miRNA and mRNA expression patterns are closely related. The target genes of up-regulated miRNAs are significantly enriched. A high level of editing at positions 4 and 5 of mature miRNAs is detected under delayed implantation than under activation. Our data should be valuable for future study on delayed implantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ren-Wei Su
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Cell Biology and Tumor Cell Engineering, School of Life Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- School of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Wei Lei
- School of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Ji-Long Liu
- School of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Zhi-Rong Zhang
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Cell Biology and Tumor Cell Engineering, School of Life Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Bo Jia
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Cell Biology and Tumor Cell Engineering, School of Life Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Xu-Hui Feng
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Cell Biology and Tumor Cell Engineering, School of Life Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Gang Ren
- School of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Shi-Jun Hu
- School of Life Science, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | - Zeng-Ming Yang
- Key Laboratory of the Ministry of Education for Cell Biology and Tumor Cell Engineering, School of Life Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Chen L, Belton RJ, Nowak RA. Basigin-mediated gene expression changes in mouse uterine stromal cells during implantation. Endocrinology 2009; 150:966-76. [PMID: 18832103 PMCID: PMC2646530 DOI: 10.1210/en.2008-0571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Implantation of mouse embryos is dependent on the proliferation and differentiation of uterine stromal cells in a process called decidualization. Decidualization both supports and limits the invasion of the implanting embryo and is regulated in part by the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their inhibitors, the tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs). Molecules that alter the balance between MMP and TIMP expression could prevent implantation of the embryo. The membrane glycoprotein basigin (CD147/EMMPRIN), a known inducer of MMPs, is necessary for normal implantation in the mouse. The purpose of this study was to investigate the potential roles of basigin during implantation in the mouse. Using an in vitro stromal cell culture system, we found that recombinant human basigin protein (rBSG) increases MMP-3 and MMP-9 expression without altering TIMP-3 expression. Our results also showed rBSG induces expression of cytokines IL-1alpha/beta and leukocyte chemoattractants, CCL3, CCL20, CXCL2, and CXCL5. More importantly, rBSG significantly suppressed stromal cell decidualization as shown by the inhibition of alkaline phosphatase-2 expression and activity by rBSG. However, rBSG did not affect stromal cell proliferation. Taken together, our data indicate that basigin mediates gene expression changes in mouse uterine stromal cells and suggests that temporal and spatial regulation of basigin expression may be involved in the recruitment of leukocytes to the mouse uterus during early pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Li Chen
- Department of Animal Sciences, University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 61801, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Nothnick WB. Regulation of uterine matrix metalloproteinase-9 and the role of microRNAs. Semin Reprod Med 2008; 26:494-9. [PMID: 18951331 DOI: 10.1055/s-0028-1096129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Controlled expression of matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP9) is vital for normal uterine physiology, whereas abnormal expression of MMP9 is associated with uterine disease. Despite the importance of MMP9 within the uterus, its regulation is poorly understood. In this review, the complex regulation of MMP9 within the uterus is highlighted, and the potential novel role of microRNAs in the regulation of this protease is discussed. Emphasis is placed on the necessity to enhance our understanding of the regulation of MMP9 expression, which may lead to the establishment of novel approaches to counteract misexpression of this protease and the diseases associated with it.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Warren B Nothnick
- Departments of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Molecular & Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas 66160, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Jones RL, Kaitu'u-Lino TJ, Nie G, Sanchez-Partida LG, Findlay JK, Salamonsen LA. Complex expression patterns support potential roles for maternally derived activins in the establishment of pregnancy in mouse. Reproduction 2007; 132:799-810. [PMID: 17071781 DOI: 10.1530/rep-06-0034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Maternal-fetal communications are critical for the establishment of pregnancy. Embryonic growth and differentiation factors produced by the oviduct and uterus play essential roles during the pre- and early post-implantation phases. Although several studies indicate roles for activin in embryonic development, gene-knockout studies have failed to identify a critical role in mammalian embryogenesis. We hypothesized that activin is produced by maternal tissues during the establishment of pregnancy, and thus maternally derived activin could compensate for the absence of embryonic activin in null homozygotes during critical developmental stages. We investigated the expression of inhibin alpha, activin betaA, and betaB subunits in the mouse oviduct and uterus during the estrous cycle and early pregnancy, and in the early conceptus. Inhibin alpha subunit was weakly expressed, while activin betaA and betaB subunits were strongly expressed in oviduct and uterus at estrous, and dramatically upregulated in the uterus on each day of pregnancy between days 3.5 and 8.5 post coitum. Prior to implantation, activin betaA and betaB subunits were immunolocalized to oviductal and uterine epithelial cells; following implantation they were expressed in the stroma, in a wave preceding decidualization. Later in pregnancy, activin betaA and betaB subunits were present in decidua basalis, trophoblast giant cells, and labyrinth zone of the developing placenta. Expression of activin betaA subunit was also detected in blastocysts and early post-implantation embryos. These data are consistent with a role for maternally derived activins in the support of the pre-implantation embryo, and during gastrulation and embryogenesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca L Jones
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Implantation Serine Proteinases heterodimerize and are critical in hatching and implantation. BMC DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY 2006; 6:61. [PMID: 17156484 PMCID: PMC1713233 DOI: 10.1186/1471-213x-6-61] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2006] [Accepted: 12/11/2006] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Background We have recently reported the expression of murine Implantation Serine Proteinase genes in pre-implantation embryos (ISP1) and uterus (ISP1 and ISP2). These proteinases belong to the S1 proteinase family and are similar to mast cell tryptases, which function as multimers. Results Here, we report the purification and initial characterization of ISP1 and 2 with respect to their physico-chemical properties and physiological function. In addition to being co-expressed in uterus, we show that ISP1 and ISP2 are also co-expressed in the pre-implantation embryo. Together, they form a heterodimer with an approximate molecular weight of 63 kD. This complex is the active form of the enzyme, which we have further characterized as being trypsin-like, based on substrate and inhibitor specificities. In addition to having a role in embryo hatching and outgrowth, we demonstrate that ISP enzyme is localized to the site of embryo invasion during implantation and that its activity is important for successful implantation in vivo. Conclusion On the basis of similarities in structural, chemical, and functional properties, we suggest that this ISP enzyme complex represents the classical hatching enzyme, strypsin. Our results demonstrate a critical role for ISP in embryo hatching and implantation.
Collapse
|
21
|
Herington JL, Bany BM. Effect of the conceptus on uterine natural killer cell numbers and function in the mouse uterus during decidualization. Biol Reprod 2006; 76:579-88. [PMID: 17151350 PMCID: PMC2275212 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.106.056630] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine natural killer (uNK) cells are the most abundant lymphocytes in the uterus during early pregnancy and play a role in spiral arteriole modifications. In the present study, we investigated whether uNK cell populations differed between mouse decidua and deciduoma. Histochemical staining using the Dolichos biflorus agglutinin (DBA) lectin was used to identify uNK cells and classify their stages of maturation. We found differences in the pattern of localization and density of uNK cells between the decidua and deciduoma at Days 2-4 after the onset of decidualization. The cells were more distributed and the densities were significantly greater in the mesometrial region of the decidua than in the deciduoma. Using double-labeling for DBA lectin binding and bromodeoxyuridine incorporation, we found that the higher number of uNK cells in the decidua was not due to an increase in uNK cell proliferation. Western blot analyses revealed that the increase in uNK cell number was accompanied by significant increases in the levels of interferon gamma (IFNG) and prointerleukin 18 when a conceptus was present. Vascular morphometry revealed that modifications of the spiral arterioles occurred in the mesometrial decidua but not in the deciduoma, which could be attributed to the differences observed in uNK cell number and IFNG production. The present study demonstrates that differences exist in uNK cell populations between the decidua and deciduoma, providing evidence that the conceptus generates signals that regulate uNK cell number and function in the uterus during implantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L. Herington
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, Illinois, 62901
| | - Brent M. Bany
- Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, Illinois, 62901
- Corresponding Author: Brent M. Bany, Ph.D., Department of Physiology, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Carbondale, IL, 62901, Telephone: (618) 453-1596, Fax: (618) 453-1517,
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Skaznik-Wikiel ME, Kaneko-Tarui T, Kashiwagi A, Pru JK. Sphingosine-1-Phosphate Receptor Expression and Signaling Correlate with Uterine Prostaglandin-Endoperoxide Synthase 2 Expression and Angiogenesis During Early Pregnancy1. Biol Reprod 2006; 74:569-76. [PMID: 16319286 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.105.046714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Signaling mechanisms coordinating uterine angiogenesis and tissue remodeling during decidualization are not completely understood. Prostanoid signaling is thought to play a functionally important role in each of these events. In the present study, we demonstrate that the subfamily of G-protein-coupled receptors that binds and becomes activated by the terminal signaling lipid in the sphingolipid pathway, sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P), were expressed during uterine decidualization. Three of the five known S1P receptors, termed endothelial differentiation genes (Edg; Edg1, Edg3, and Edg5) were upregulated in the uterine deciduum from Day of Pregnancy (DOP) 4.5 to 7.5, while Edg6 and Edg8 expression remained unchanged. Consistent with angiogenesis in general during decidualization, we believe EDG1 and EDG5 to be regulated by the embryo because no microvascular expression for these receptors was observed in oil-induced deciduomas. Observed expression of EDG1 and EDG5 showed a similar expression pattern to that previously reported for prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2), transitioning from the sublumenal stromal compartment in the antimesometrial pole (DOP 5) to the microvasculature of the mesometrial pole (DOP 7). Furthermore, these two receptors colocalized with PTGS2 at three additional sites at the maternal:fetal interface throughout pregnancy. Treatment of cultured predecidualized stromal cells with S1P resulted in upregulation of Ptgs2 mRNA and PTGS2 protein, but not the downstream enzyme prostacyclin synthase. These combined results suggest the existence of a link between the sphingolipid and prostanoid signaling pathways in uterine physiology, and that, based on their expression pattern, S1P receptors function to coordinate uterine mesometrial angiogenesis during the implantation phase of early gestation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Malgorzata E Skaznik-Wikiel
- Vincent Center for Reproductive Biology, Vincent Obstetrics and Gynecology Service, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02114, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Ma XH, Hu SJ, Yu H, Xu LB, Yang ZM. Differential expression of transcriptional repressor snail gene at implantation site in mouse uterus. Mol Reprod Dev 2006; 73:133-41. [PMID: 16261611 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.20429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The snail superfamily of zinc-finger transcription factors is involved in pronounced cell movements during both embryonic development and tumor progression. This study was to examine snail expression in mouse uterus during early pregnancy and its regulation under pseudopregnancy, delayed implantation, steroid hormone treatment, and artificial decidualization by in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry. There was a low level of snail mRNA signal and immunostaining in mouse uteri on day 1-4 of pregnancy. When embryo implanted on day 5, both snail mRNA signal and immunostaining were strongly detected in the subluminal stroma immediately surrounding the implanting blastocyst, but not detected in the inter-implantation sites. Under delayed implantation, there was no detectable snail expression. After delayed implantation was terminated by estrogen treatment and embryo implanted, there was a strong level of snail mRNA and immunostaining in the subluminal stroma surrounding the implanting blastocyst, which was similar to that on day 5 of pregnancy. Furthermore, there was no detectable snail expression in mouse uterus on day 5 of pseudopregnancy. From day 6-8 of pregnancy, both snail mRNA signal and immunostaining were detected in the decidua. Our data suggest that snail may play an important role during mouse embryo implantation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xing-Hong Ma
- College of Life Sciences, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, China
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Daimon E, Wada Y. Role of Neutrophils in Matrix Metalloproteinase Activity in the Preimplantation Mouse Uterus1. Biol Reprod 2005; 73:163-71. [PMID: 15772259 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.104.038539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) have been implicated in embryonal implantation processes such as trophoblast invasion and decidualization. The temporal and spatial distributions of MMP bioactivities were analyzed by in situ zymography, which indicated these activities to be markedly increased in the postcoital mouse uterus compared with those in the later implantation stage. Activity was ascribed to proMMP9, which moved from the uterine serosa to the endometrium but was not associated with mRNA up-regulation. The activity was colocalized with infiltrating neutrophils, and neutropenic mice did not exhibit MMP9 expression. Removing the seminal vesicles from male mice abolished the postcoital increase in MMP9 in the female. These results indicate the major MMP activity in the preimplantation uterus to originate in proMMP9-bearing neutrophils attracted by seminal plasma. Considering our results together with those of previous reports of reduced fertility in Mmp9-deficient female mice, we speculate that neutrophil infiltration participates in the extracellular matrix degradation needed to support pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Etsuko Daimon
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Osaka Medical Center and Research Institute for Maternal and Child Health, Izumi, Japan
| | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Chantakru S, Wang WC, van den Heuvel M, Bashar S, Simpson A, Chen Q, Croy BA, Evans SS. Coordinate regulation of lymphocyte-endothelial interactions by pregnancy-associated hormones. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2004; 171:4011-9. [PMID: 14530321 PMCID: PMC2967521 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.171.8.4011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Precursors of uterine NK cells home to the uterus during early pregnancy from multiple lymphohemopoietic sources. In mouse uterine tissue, pregnancy markedly up-regulates both L-selectin- and alpha(4) integrin-dependent adhesion pathways for circulating human CD56(bright) cells, the phenotype of human uterine NK cells. Based on roles for these adhesion molecules in lymphocyte homing, we examined effects of pregnancy or the steroid hormones 17beta-estradiol or progesterone on lymphocyte-endothelial interactions in secondary lymphoid tissues and in uterus. From preimplantation gestation day 3, specialized high endothelial venules in peripheral lymph nodes and Peyer's patches supported elevated L-selectin and alpha(4)beta(7) integrin-dependent lymphocyte adhesion under shear throughout pregnancy, as compared with high endothelial venules of virgin or postpartum donors. Squamous endothelium from nonlymphoid tissue was not affected. Pregnancy-equivalent endothelial responses were observed in lymph nodes and Peyer's patches from ovariectomized mice receiving 17beta-estradiol and/or progesterone replacement therapy. Adhesion of human CD56(bright) cells to uteri from pregnant or hormone-treated ovariectomized mice was enhanced through L-selectin- and alpha(4) integrin-dependent mechanisms and involved multiple vascular adhesion molecules including mucosal addressin cell adhesion molecule-1, VCAM-1, and peripheral lymph node addressin. Analysis of Tie2-green fluorescence protein transgenic mice demonstrated that CD56(bright) cells adhered primarily to vascular endothelium within the decidua basalis. Microdomain localization of adhesion involving large clusters of lymphocytes was induced on uteri from natural matings, but not pseudopregnancy. Steroid hormones also had independent effects on L-selectin function in splenic lymphocytes that mimicked physiological stimulation induced by pregnancy or fever-range temperatures. These results provide the first evidence for coordinated, organ-specific, steroid hormone-induced changes in lymphocyte homing mechanisms that could contribute to local and systemic immune responses during pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sirirak Chantakru
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada N1G 2W1
| | - Wan-Chao Wang
- Department of Immunology, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Elm at Carlton Streets, Buffalo, NY, 14263
| | | | - Siamak Bashar
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada N1G 2W1
| | - Amanda Simpson
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada N1G 2W1
| | - Qing Chen
- Department of Immunology, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Elm at Carlton Streets, Buffalo, NY, 14263
| | - B. Anne Croy
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada N1G 2W1
| | - Sharon S. Evans
- Department of Immunology, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Elm at Carlton Streets, Buffalo, NY, 14263
- Address correspondence and reprint requests to Dr. Sharon Evans, Department of Immunology, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Elm at Carlton Street, Buffalo, NY 14263., , Phone: 716-845-3421, FAX: 716-845-8906
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Zhang J, Cao YJ, Li FY, Li J, Yao LB, Duan EK. Effects of Fibronectin, VEGF and Angiostatin on the Expression of MMPs through Different Signaling Pathways in the JEG-3 Cells. Am J Reprod Immunol 2003; 50:273-85. [PMID: 14672329 DOI: 10.1034/j.1600-0897.2003.00073.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM The objective of this study was to evaluate the possible signal pathway of fibronectin (FN), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and angiostatin (AS) on the expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in JEG-3 cells. METHODS OF STUDY JEG-3 cells were cultured and were examined for the effect of FN, VEGF and AS on the expression of MMPs by immunocytochemistry, gelatin zymography, Western blot analysis and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). RESULTS We found that up-regulation of the expression of MMPs was induced by FN and VEGF through the focal adhesion kinase (FAK)/mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and Flt-1/p38SAPK/MAPKAPK2 signaling pathways, respectively. Furthermore, AS down-regulated the expression of MMPs through the integrin alphaVbeta3/FAK signaling pathway independent of the integrin-binding motif Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD). CONCLUSION These data indicate that the expression of MMPs is regulated by many independent factors (such as FN, VEGF and AS) through different signaling pathways which influence the behavior of trophoblast cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jian Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, PR China
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Novaro V, Pustovrh C, Colman-Lerner A, Radisky D, Lo Nostro F, Paz D, Jawerbaum A, González E. Nitric oxide induces gelatinase A (matrix metalloproteinase 2) during rat embryo implantation. Fertil Steril 2002; 78:1278-87. [PMID: 12477525 DOI: 10.1016/s0015-0282(02)04240-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate a reciprocal signaling interaction initiated by embryo-derived nitric oxide (NO) to facilitate implantation by increased production of gelatinase A (matrix metalloproteinase 2, MMP2) in uterine stroma. DESIGN Experimental animal studies. SETTING Reproductive-physiology research laboratory. ANIMAL(S) Female syngeneic Wistar rats aged 14 weeks. INTERVENTION(S) Vaginal smears to confirm pregnancy. Oviductal ligature to avoid the descent of blastocysts to the uterine lumen. Plasma exudation assays to locate uterine blastocyst implantation sites. Organ cultures treated with NO donors and nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibitors. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Expression of MMP2 and NO was assessed by Western blot and zymography of tissue extracts and by immunofluorescence of tissue sections. RESULT(S) An increase in MMP2 activity was found in uterine extracts in early pregnant rats and was concentrated at implantation sites. Immunolocalization experiments showed that inducible NOS was expressed on the surface of the implanting blastocyst adjacent to the uterine epithelium at the sites of increased MMP2 expression. In organ culture experiments, NO donors were found to increase, whereas NOS inhibitors were found to decrease MMP2 activity in uterine tissue sections. CONCLUSION(S) Blastocyst-derived NO contributes to the production of uterine-derived MMP2, an essential component of implantation and initiation of placentation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Novaro
- Centro de Estudios Farmacológicos y Botánicos, Departamento de Fisiología de la Reproducción, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Matsumoto-Miyai K, Kitagawa R, Ninomiya A, Momota Y, Yoshida S, Shiosaka S. Decidualization induces the expression and activation of an extracellular protease neuropsin in mouse uterus. Biol Reprod 2002; 67:1414-8. [PMID: 12390870 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.102.006080] [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: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine decidualization is accompanied by the remodeling of the cell-matrix and cell-cell interactions around the endometrial stromal cells to allow an appropriate invasion of trophoblasts. This remodeling is thought to require the proteolysis of extracellular matrix proteins or cell adhesion molecules; however, the molecular mechanism remains poorly understood. In this study, decidualization induced the expression and activation of an extracellular serine protease neuropsin in the mouse uterus. Although nonpregnant uteri contained little neuropsin, the protein content and enzymatic activity increased markedly and peaked at the midgestational period in pregnant uteri. Neuropsin expression and activity was also upregulated in artificially induced deciduomata but not in nondecidualized pseudopregnant uteri. Neuropsin is the first extracellular protease to show the evident induction of expression and activity by decidualization and might contribute to the remodeling of extracellular components after decidualization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kazumasa Matsumoto-Miyai
- Division of Structural Cell Biology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, Ikoma, Nara 630-0101, Japan.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
29
|
Salamonsen LA, Nie G. Proteases at the endometrial-trophoblast interface: their role in implantation. Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2002; 3:133-43. [PMID: 12007290 DOI: 10.1023/a:1015407012559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Lois A Salamonsen
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, PO Box 5152, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia.
| | | |
Collapse
|