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Zhu J, Liu YH, He XL, Kohlmeier M, Zhou LL, Shen LW, Yi XX, Tang QY, Cai W, Wang B. Dietary Choline Intake during Pregnancy and PEMT rs7946 Polymorphism on Risk of Preterm Birth: A Case-Control Study. Ann Nutr Metab 2021; 76:431-440. [PMID: 33503637 DOI: 10.1159/000507472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2019] [Accepted: 03/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND AIMS Choline-metabolizing genetic variation may interact with choline intake on fetal programming and pregnancy outcome. This case-control study aims to explore the association of maternal choline consumption and phosphatidylethanolamine N-methyltransferase (PEMT) gene polymorphism rs7946 with preterm birth risk. METHODS 145 Han Chinese women with preterm delivery and 157 Han Chinese women with term delivery were recruited in Shanghai. Dietary choline intake during pregnancy was assessed using a validated food frequency questionnaire. Additionally, DNA samples were genotyped for PEMT rs7946 (G5465A) with plasma homocysteine (Hcy) levels measured. RESULTS Compared with the lowest quartile of choline intake, women within the highest consumption quartile had adjusted odds ratio (aOR) for preterm birth of 0.48 (95% confidence interval, CI [0.24, 0.95]). There was a significant interaction between maternal choline intake and PEMT rs7946 (p for interaction = 0.04), where the AA genotype carriers who consumed the energy-adjusted choline <255.01 mg/day had aOR for preterm birth of 3.75 (95% CI [1.24, 11.35]), compared to those with GG genotype and choline intake >255.01 mg/day during pregnancy. Additionally, the greatest elevated plasma Hcy was found in the cases with AA genotype and choline consumption <255.01 mg/day (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION The AA genotype of PEMT rs7946 may be associated with increased preterm birth in these Han Chinese women with low choline intake during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Nutrition and Foods Program, School of Family and Consumer Sciences, Texas State University, San Marcos, Texas, USA.,Department of Clinical Nutrition, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Department of Nutrition, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu-Hong Liu
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Shanghai Seventh People's Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiang-Long He
- Department of Nutrition, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Martin Kohlmeier
- Human Research Core and Nutrigenetics Laboratory, UNC Nutrition Research Institute, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Kannapolis, North Carolina, USA
| | - Li-Li Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Li-Wei Shen
- Department of Obstetrics, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xin-Xuan Yi
- Department of Nutrition, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qing-Ya Tang
- Department of Obstetrics, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Wei Cai
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Department of Nutrition, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Shanghai, China
| | - Bei Wang
- Department of Obstetrics, Xinhua Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China,
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Guerra DD, Hurt KJ. Gasotransmitters in pregnancy: from conception to uterine involution. Biol Reprod 2020; 101:4-25. [PMID: 30848786 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2018] [Revised: 02/14/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Gasotransmitters are endogenous small gaseous messengers exemplified by nitric oxide (NO), carbon monoxide (CO), and hydrogen sulfide (H2S or sulfide). Gasotransmitters are implicated in myriad physiologic functions including many aspects of reproduction. Our objective was to comprehensively review basic mechanisms and functions of gasotransmitters during pregnancy from conception to uterine involution and highlight future research opportunities. We searched PubMed and Web of Science databases using combinations of keywords nitric oxide, carbon monoxide, sulfide, placenta, uterus, labor, and pregnancy. We included English language publications on human and animal studies from any date through August 2018 and retained basic and translational articles with relevant original findings. All gasotransmitters activate cGMP signaling. NO and sulfide also covalently modify target protein cysteines. Protein kinases and ion channels transduce gasotransmitter signals, and co-expressed gasotransmitters can be synergistic or antagonistic depending on cell type. Gasotransmitters influence tubal transit, placentation, cervical remodeling, and myometrial contractility. NO, CO, and sulfide dilate resistance vessels, suppress inflammation, and relax myometrium to promote uterine quiescence and normal placentation. Cervical remodeling and rupture of fetal membranes coincide with enhanced oxidation and altered gasotransmitter metabolism. Mechanisms mediating cellular and organismal changes in pregnancy due to gasotransmitters are largely unknown. Altered gasotransmitter signaling has been reported for preeclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction, premature rupture of membranes, and preterm labor. However, in most cases specific molecular changes are not yet characterized. Nonclassical signaling pathways and the crosstalk among gasotransmitters are emerging investigation topics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damian D Guerra
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - K Joseph Hurt
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA.,Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Denver, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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Abstract
The three known gasotransmitters, nitric oxide, carbon monoxide, and hydrogen sulfide are involved in key processes throughout pregnancy. Gasotransmitters are known to impact on smooth muscle tone, regulation of immune responses, and oxidative state of cells and their component molecules. Failure of the systems that tightly regulate gasotransmitter production and downstream effects are thought to contribute to common maternal diseases such as preeclampsia and preterm birth. Normal pregnancy-related changes in uterine blood flow depend heavily on gasotransmitter signaling. In preeclampsia, endothelial dysfunction is a major contributor to aberrant gasotransmitter signaling, resulting in hypertension after 20 weeks gestation. Maintenance of pregnancy to term also requires gasotransmitter-mediated uterine quiescence. As the appropriate signals for parturition occur, regulation of gasotransmitter signaling must work in concert with those endocrine signals in order for appropriate labor and delivery timing. Like preeclampsia, preterm birth may have origins in abnormal gasotransmitter signaling. We review the evidence for the involvement of gasotransmitters in preeclampsia and preterm birth, as well as mechanistic and molecular signaling targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aishwarya Rengarajan
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Dept Ob/ Gyn, UW - Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Amanda K Mauro
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Dept Ob/ Gyn, UW - Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA
| | - Derek S Boeldt
- Perinatal Research Laboratories, Dept Ob/ Gyn, UW - Madison, Madison, WI, 53715, USA.
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McCarthy R, Martin-Fairey C, Sojka DK, Herzog ED, Jungheim ES, Stout MJ, Fay JC, Mahendroo M, Reese J, Herington JL, Plosa EJ, Shelton EL, England SK. Mouse models of preterm birth: suggested assessment and reporting guidelines. Biol Reprod 2019; 99:922-937. [PMID: 29733339 PMCID: PMC6297318 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2018] [Accepted: 04/30/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Preterm birth affects approximately 1 out of every 10 births in the United States, leading to high rates of mortality and long-term negative health consequences. To investigate the mechanisms leading to preterm birth so as to develop prevention strategies, researchers have developed numerous mouse models of preterm birth. However, the lack of standard definitions for preterm birth in mice limits our field's ability to compare models and make inferences about preterm birth in humans. In this review, we discuss numerous mouse preterm birth models, propose guidelines for experiments and reporting, and suggest markers that can be used to assess whether pups are premature or mature. We argue that adoption of these recommendations will enhance the utility of mice as models for preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald McCarthy
- Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Carmel Martin-Fairey
- Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Dorothy K Sojka
- Rheumatology Division, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Erik D Herzog
- Department of Biology, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Emily S Jungheim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Molly J Stout
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
| | - Justin C Fay
- Department of Biology, University of Rochester, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Mala Mahendroo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas, USA
| | - Jeff Reese
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Jennifer L Herington
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Erin J Plosa
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Elaine L Shelton
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee, USA
| | - Sarah K England
- Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri, USA
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Akahoshi N, Handa H, Takemoto R, Kamata S, Yoshida M, Onaka T, Ishii I. Preeclampsia-Like Features and Partial Lactation Failure in Mice Lacking Cystathionine γ-Lyase-An Animal Model of Cystathioninuria. Int J Mol Sci 2019; 20:ijms20143507. [PMID: 31319489 PMCID: PMC6679037 DOI: 10.3390/ijms20143507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Revised: 07/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Elevated plasma homocysteine levels are considered as a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases as well as preeclampsia—a pregnancy disorder characterized by hypertension and proteinuria. We previously generated mice lacking cystathionine γ-lyase (Cth) as cystathioninuria models and found them to be with cystathioninemia/homocysteinemia. We investigated whether Cth-deficient (Cth−/−) pregnant mice display any features of preeclampsia. Cth−/− females developed normally but showed mild hypertension (~10 mmHg systolic blood pressure elevation) in late pregnancy and mild proteinuria throughout development/pregnancy. Cth−/− dams had normal numbers of pups and exhibited normal maternal behavior except slightly lower breastfeeding activity. However, half of them could not raise their pups owing to defective lactation; they could produce/store the first milk in their mammary glands but not often provide milk to their pups after the first ejection. The serum oxytocin levels and oxytocin receptor expression in the mammary glands were comparable between wild-type and Cth−/− dams, but the contraction responses of mammary gland myoepithelial cells to oxytocin were significantly lower in Cth−/− dams. The contraction responses to oxytocin were lower in uteruses isolated from Cth−/− mice. Our results suggest that elevated homocysteine or other unknown factors in preeclampsia-like Cth−/− dams interfere with oxytocin that regulates milk ejection reflex.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noriyuki Akahoshi
- Department of Health Chemistry, Showa Pharmaceutical University, Tokyo 194-8543, Japan
| | - Hiroki Handa
- Department of Health Chemistry, Showa Pharmaceutical University, Tokyo 194-8543, Japan
| | - Rintaro Takemoto
- Department of Health Chemistry, Showa Pharmaceutical University, Tokyo 194-8543, Japan
| | - Shotaro Kamata
- Department of Health Chemistry, Showa Pharmaceutical University, Tokyo 194-8543, Japan
| | - Masahide Yoshida
- Department of Physiology, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi 329-0498, Japan
| | - Tatsushi Onaka
- Department of Physiology, Jichi Medical University, Tochigi 329-0498, Japan
| | - Isao Ishii
- Department of Health Chemistry, Showa Pharmaceutical University, Tokyo 194-8543, Japan.
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6
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Liu Y, Tao H, Yang X, Huang K, Zhang X, Li C. Decreased Serum Oxytocin and Increased Homocysteine in First-Episode Schizophrenia Patients. Front Psychiatry 2019; 10:217. [PMID: 31024366 PMCID: PMC6469488 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2018] [Accepted: 03/25/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Schizophrenia (SZ) is a debilitating and heterogeneous disease. We hypothesized that the oxytocin (OXT) system, inflammation and one-carbon metabolism would have a link with SZ. In this study, serum OXT, OXT receptor (OXTR), interleukin-6 (IL-6), high sensitivity CRP (hsCRP) and homocysteine (Hcy) levels were measured in 52 first-episode schizophrenia (FES) patients and 41 healthy controls (HC) from the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University. Meanwhile, the mRNA expressions of OXT and OXTR genes were determined by real-time quantitative PCR. Serum OXT and OXTR levels were significantly lower in FES patients (518.96 ± 22.22 and 174.60 ± 17.11 pg/ml) than the HC group (711.58 ± 40.57 and 252.15 ± 20.62 pg/ml). Serum IL-6 and hsCRP levels showed no difference between the two groups (1.82 ± 0.30 vs. 1.69 ± 0.36 pg/ml, 0.66 (0.22, 1.07) vs. 0.31 (0.13, 0.91) mg/L), but serum Hcy levels were significantly higher in FES patients (20.18 ± 1.83 vs. 15.24 ± 0.82 μmol/ml). The FES patients (0.27 ± 0.02 and 0.20 ± 0.02) have relatively higher mRNA expressions of OXT and OXTR genes than the HC group (0.16 ± 0.01 and 0.14 ± 0.01). In summary, our results suggested the possible function of the OXT system and Hcy in the pathogenesis of SZ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Liu
- Department of Psychiatry, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,China National Clinical Research Center on Mental Disorders (Xiangya) and China National Technology Institute on Mental Disorders, Changsha, China.,Mental Health Institute of Central South University and Hunan Key Laboratory of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Changsha, China
| | - Huai Tao
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Hunan University of Chinese Medicine, Changsha, China
| | - Xiudeng Yang
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shaoyang University, Shaoyang, China
| | - Kai Huang
- Department of Psychiatry, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,China National Clinical Research Center on Mental Disorders (Xiangya) and China National Technology Institute on Mental Disorders, Changsha, China.,Mental Health Institute of Central South University and Hunan Key Laboratory of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Changsha, China
| | - Xianghui Zhang
- Department of Psychiatry, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.,China National Clinical Research Center on Mental Disorders (Xiangya) and China National Technology Institute on Mental Disorders, Changsha, China.,Mental Health Institute of Central South University and Hunan Key Laboratory of Psychiatry and Mental Health, Changsha, China
| | - Cunyan Li
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Hunan Provincial People's Hospital, The First Affiliated Hospital of Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
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7
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Vellecco V, Armogida C, Bucci M. Hydrogen sulfide pathway and skeletal muscle: an introductory review. Br J Pharmacol 2018; 175:3090-3099. [PMID: 29767441 PMCID: PMC6031874 DOI: 10.1111/bph.14358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2018] [Revised: 04/18/2018] [Accepted: 04/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The presence of the H2 S pathway in skeletal muscle (SKM) has recently been established. SKM expresses the three constitutive H2 S-generating enzymes in animals and humans, and it actively produces H2 S. The main, recognized molecular targets of H2 S, that is, potassium channels and PDEs, have been evaluated in SKM physiology in order to hypothesize a role for H2 S signalling. SKM dysfunctions, including muscular dystrophy and malignant hyperthermia, have also been evaluated as conditions in which the H2 S and transsulfuration pathways have been suggested to be involved. The intrinsic complexity of the molecular mechanisms involved in excitation-contraction (E-C) coupling together with the scarcity of preclinical models of SKM-related disorders have hampered any advances in the knowledge of SKM function. Here, we have addressed the role of the H2 S pathway in E-C coupling and the relative importance of cystathionine β-synthase, cistathionine γ-lyase and 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase in SKM diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Vellecco
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples 'Federico II', Naples, 80131, Italy
| | - Chiara Armogida
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples 'Federico II', Naples, 80131, Italy
| | - Mariarosaria Bucci
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Medicine, University of Naples 'Federico II', Naples, 80131, Italy
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8
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Qiu X, Gao F, Qiu Y, Bao J, Gu X, Long Y, Liu F, Cai M, Liu H. Association of maternal serum homocysteine concentration levels in late stage of pregnancy with preterm births: a nested case-control study. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2017; 31:2673-2677. [PMID: 28797185 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2017.1351534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate the relationship between maternal serum homocysteine (Hcy) levels in the late stage of pregnancy and preterm birth. Other relevant biochemical parameters were measured to establish the normal reference interval of serum Hcy in both women in the late stage of pregnancy and neonates. MATERIALS AND METHODS The nested case-control study included 300 singleton pregnant women with preterm births between June 2013 and May 2015 and their premature delivered babies as a preterm group. Blood sample within three days before delivery was collected. Simultaneously, 300 healthy pregnant women admitted during the same time, and singleton mature neonates who had gestational week-matched blood sample were age-matched as a control group. RESULTS Maternal serum levels of Hcy, total triglycerides, total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), uric acid (UA), free fatty acids (FAA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were all higher in the preterm group than in the control group except high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). Serum levels of Hcy, TC, LDL-C, UA, FAA and SOD were higher in prematurely delivered neonates than in the control group except for HDL-C. The body weight of prematurely delivered neonates was negatively correlated with the maternal serum levels of Hcy and UA before delivery. CONCLUSIONS Higher maternal serum Hcy levels were associated with preterm birth and neonatal body weight. Elevated maternal serum levels of Hcy might serve as a biomarker for preterm birth prediction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiantao Qiu
- a Department of Clinical Laboratory , Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University , Guangzhou , China
| | - Fei Gao
- a Department of Clinical Laboratory , Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University , Guangzhou , China
| | - Yuanyuan Qiu
- a Department of Clinical Laboratory , Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University , Guangzhou , China
| | - Junjie Bao
- b Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Preterm Birth Prevention and Treatment Research Unit, Guangzhou Medical University , Guangzhou , China
| | - Xiaoqiong Gu
- a Department of Clinical Laboratory , Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University , Guangzhou , China
| | - Yan Long
- a Department of Clinical Laboratory , Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University , Guangzhou , China
| | - Fei Liu
- a Department of Clinical Laboratory , Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University , Guangzhou , China
| | - Minmin Cai
- a Department of Clinical Laboratory , Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University , Guangzhou , China
| | - Haiying Liu
- a Department of Clinical Laboratory , Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center, Guangzhou Medical University , Guangzhou , China
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9
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Solé-Navais P, Cavallé-Busquets P, Fernandez-Ballart JD, Murphy MM. Early pregnancy B vitamin status, one carbon metabolism, pregnancy outcome and child development. Biochimie 2015; 126:91-6. [PMID: 26700149 DOI: 10.1016/j.biochi.2015.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2015] [Accepted: 12/01/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Periconception supplementation with folic acid is recommended until 12 gestational weeks to prevent neural tube defects. Doses of folic acid contained in supplements and timing and length of use during pregnancy vary. The effects of status in periconception and pregnancy folate, cobalamin, betaine and their interactions on one carbon metabolism (1C), as well as the global effect of 1C on foetal growth and pregnancy outcome, are reviewed. Results from prospective studies are reviewed. Cessation of folic acid supplement use after the first trimester is associated with a sharp drop in plasma folate status and enhanced conversion of betaine to dimethylglycine. Dimethylglycine production is also higher in mothers with low folate status than in those with normal-high folate status. The effects of high doses of folic acid on one carbon metabolism in mothers with low early pregnancy cobalamin status and on foetal growth are also reviewed. Several studies report that moderately elevated early pregnancy fasting plasma total homocysteine (tHcy) is inversely associated with birth weight and a predictor of intrauterine growth retardation. There is also evidence for increased risk of preterm birth when maternal folate status is low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pol Solé-Navais
- Area of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV), IISPV, Spain; CIBER (CB06/03) ISCIII, Spain
| | - Pere Cavallé-Busquets
- CIBER (CB06/03) ISCIII, Spain; Area of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Hospital Universitari Sant Joan, Reus, Spain
| | - Joan D Fernandez-Ballart
- Area of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV), IISPV, Spain; CIBER (CB06/03) ISCIII, Spain
| | - Michelle M Murphy
- Area of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universitat Rovira i Virgili (URV), IISPV, Spain; CIBER (CB06/03) ISCIII, Spain.
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10
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Meccariello R, Battista N, Bradshaw HB, Wang H. Updates in reproduction coming from the endocannabinoid system. Int J Endocrinol 2014; 2014:412354. [PMID: 24550985 PMCID: PMC3914453 DOI: 10.1155/2014/412354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2013] [Revised: 11/20/2013] [Accepted: 12/04/2013] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is an evolutionarily conserved master system deeply involved in the central and local control of reproductive functions in both sexes. The tone of these lipid mediators-deeply modulated by the activity of biosynthetic and hydrolyzing machineries-regulates reproductive functions from gonadotropin discharge and steroid biosynthesis to the formation of high quality gametes and successful pregnancy. This review provides an overview on ECS and reproduction and focuses on the insights in the regulation of endocannabinoid production by steroids, in the regulation of male reproductive activity, and in placentation and parturition. Taken all together, evidences emerge that the activity of the ECS is crucial for procreation and may represent a target for the therapeutic exploitation of infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosaria Meccariello
- Dipartimento di Scienze Motorie e del Benessere, Università di Napoli Parthenope, via Medina 40, 80133 Napoli, Italy
- *Rosaria Meccariello:
| | - Natalia Battista
- Faculty of Bioscience and Technology for Food, Agriculture and Environment, University of Teramo, 64100 Teramo, Italy
- European Center for Brain Research (CERC), Santa Lucia Foundation, 00143 Rome, Italy
| | - Heather B. Bradshaw
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, The Kinsey Institute for Research in Sex, Gender, and Reproduction, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Haibin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
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