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Garratt J, Rahmati M. Assessing the endometrium: An update on current and potential novel biomarkers of receptivity. J Reprod Immunol 2023; 160:104162. [PMID: 37871552 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2023.104162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [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: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
A cyclical evolvement of the endometrium into a transient state of receptivity is crucial for acceptance of the semi-allogeneic foetus, conducive to pregnancy. Despite documentation of aberrances in this process within patients experiencing repeated embryo implantation failures and miscarriages, the endometrium is often overlooked in IVF clinics as the cause for failure. Focus instead is usually given to embryo-derived factors, such as aneuploidy. Nevertheless, failure of approximately 30 % of euploid embryos to implant demonstrates that other factors such as the endometrium require clinical exploration. Here, we review both traditional and novel methods used to assess endometrial receptivity such as identifying the WOI, endometrial immune profiling and transcriptomics panel testing. Where reported, we will also discuss their clinical application, as well as novel potential biomarkers within the pre-clinical research stages which show promise in their ability to assess endometrial receptivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Garratt
- London Women's Clinic, 113-115 Harley Street, W1G 6AP London, United Kingdom; University of Kent, School of Biosciences, CT2 7NZ Canterbury, United Kingdom
| | - M Rahmati
- London Women's Clinic, 113-115 Harley Street, W1G 6AP London, United Kingdom.
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2
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Holdsworth-Carson SJ, Menkhorst E, Maybin JA, King A, Girling JE. Cyclic processes in the uterine tubes, endometrium, myometrium, and cervix: pathways and perturbations. Mol Hum Reprod 2023; 29:gaad012. [PMID: 37225518 PMCID: PMC10208902 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaad012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2022] [Revised: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/26/2023] Open
Abstract
This review leads the 2023 Call for Papers in MHR: 'Cyclical function of the female reproductive tract' and will outline the complex and fascinating changes that take place in the reproductive tract during the menstrual cycle. We will also explore associated reproductive tract abnormalities that impact or are impacted by the menstrual cycle. Between menarche and menopause, women and people who menstruate living in high-income countries can expect to experience ∼450 menstrual cycles. The primary function of the menstrual cycle is to prepare the reproductive system for pregnancy in the event of fertilization. In the absence of pregnancy, ovarian hormone levels fall, triggering the end of the menstrual cycle and onset of menstruation. We have chosen to exclude the ovaries and focus on the other structures that make up the reproductive tract: uterine tubes, endometrium, myometrium, and cervix, which also functionally change in response to fluctuations in ovarian hormone production across the menstrual cycle. This inaugural paper for the 2023 MHR special collection will discuss our current understanding of the normal physiological processes involved in uterine cyclicity (limited specifically to the uterine tubes, endometrium, myometrium, and cervix) in humans, and other mammals where relevant. We will emphasize where knowledge gaps exist and highlight the impact that reproductive tract and uterine cycle perturbations have on health and fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah J Holdsworth-Carson
- Julia Argyrou Endometriosis Centre, Epworth HealthCare, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne and Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women’s Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ellen Menkhorst
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne and Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women’s Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jacqueline A Maybin
- Institute for Regeneration and Repair, MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Anna King
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, NHS Lothian, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Jane E Girling
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne and Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women’s Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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3
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Huang Z, Lai PF, Cocker ATH, Haslam SM, Dell A, Brady HJM, Johnson MR. Roles of N-linked glycosylation and glycan-binding proteins in placentation: trophoblast infiltration, immunomodulation, angiogenesis, and pathophysiology. Biochem Soc Trans 2023:BST20221406. [PMID: 36929183 DOI: 10.1042/BST20221406] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023]
Abstract
Protein N-linked glycosylation is a structurally diverse post-translational modification that stores biological information in a larger order of magnitude than other post-translational modifications such as phosphorylation, ubiquitination and acetylation. This gives N-glycosylated proteins a diverse range of properties and allows glyco-codes (glycan-related information) to be deciphered by glycan-binding proteins (GBPs). The intervillous space of the placenta is richly populated with membrane-bound and secreted glycoproteins. Evidence exists to suggest that altering the structural nature of their N-glycans can impact several trophoblast functions, which include those related to interactions with decidual cells. This review summarizes trophoblast-related activities influenced by N-glycan-GBP recognition, exploring how different subtypes of trophoblasts actively adapt to characteristics of the decidualized endometrium through cell-specific expression of N-glycosylated proteins, and how these cells receive decidua-derived signals via N-glycan-GBP interactions. We highlight work on how changes in N-glycosylation relates to the success of trophoblast infiltration, interactions of immunomodulators, and uterine angiogenesis. We also discuss studies that suggest aberrant N-glycosylation of trophoblasts may contribute to the pathogenesis of pregnancy complications (e.g. pre-eclampsia, early spontaneous miscarriages and hydatidiform mole). We propose that a more in-depth understanding of how N-glycosylation shapes trophoblast phenotype during early pregnancy has the potential to improve our approach to predicting, diagnosing and alleviating poor maternal/fetal outcomes associated with placental dysfunction.
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4
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Chen M, Shi JL, Zheng ZM, Lin Z, Li MQ, Shao J. Galectins: Important Regulators in Normal and Pathologic Pregnancies. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms231710110. [PMID: 36077508 PMCID: PMC9456357 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231710110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [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: 08/05/2022] [Revised: 08/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Galectins (Gal) are characterized by their affinity for galactoside structures on glycoconjugates. This relationship is mediated by carbohydrate recognition domains, which are multifunctional regulators of basic cellular biological processes with high structural similarity among family members. They participate in both innate and adaptive immune responses, as well as in reproductive immunology. Recently, the discovery that galectins are highly expressed at the maternal–fetal interface has garnerd the interest of experts in human reproduction. Galectins are involved in a variety of functions such as maternal–fetal immune tolerance, angiogenesis, trophoblast invasion and placental development and are considered to be important mediators of successful embryo implantation and during pregnancy. Dysregulation of these galectins is associated with abnormal and pathological pregnancies (e.g., preeclampsia, gestational diabetes mellitus, fetal growth restriction, preterm birth). Our work reviews the regulatory mechanisms of galectins in normal and pathological pregnancies and has implications for clinicians in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of pregnancy-related diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Min Chen
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Jia-Lu Shi
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Zi-Meng Zheng
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Zhi Lin
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China
| | - Ming-Qing Li
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China
- NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China
- Correspondence: (M.-Q.L.); (J.S.)
| | - Jun Shao
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, China
- Department of Obstetrics, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai Medical School, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China
- Correspondence: (M.-Q.L.); (J.S.)
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5
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Menkhorst E, Than NG, Jeschke U, Barrientos G, Szereday L, Dveksler G, Blois SM. Medawar's PostEra: Galectins Emerged as Key Players During Fetal-Maternal Glycoimmune Adaptation. Front Immunol 2022; 12:784473. [PMID: 34975875 PMCID: PMC8715898 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2021.784473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Lectin-glycan interactions, in particular those mediated by the galectin family, regulate many processes required for a successful pregnancy. Over the past decades, increasing evidence gathered from in vitro and in vivo experiments indicate that members of the galectin family specifically bind to both intracellular and membrane bound carbohydrate ligands regulating angiogenesis, immune-cell adaptations required to tolerate the fetal semi-allograft and mammalian embryogenesis. Therefore, galectins play important roles in fetal development and placentation contributing to maternal and fetal health. This review discusses the expression and role of galectins during the course of pregnancy, with an emphasis on maternal immune adaptions and galectin-glycan interactions uncovered in the recent years. In addition, we summarize the galectin fingerprints associated with pathological gestation with particular focus on preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Menkhorst
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Gynaecological Research Centre, The Women's Hospital, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Nandor Gabor Than
- Systems Biology of Reproduction Research Group, Institute of Enyzmology, Research Centre for Natural Sciences, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Udo Jeschke
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Augsburg, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Gabriela Barrientos
- Laboratorio de Medicina Experimental, Hospital Alemán-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Laszlo Szereday
- Medical School, Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Pecs, Pecs, Hungary
| | - Gabriela Dveksler
- Department of Pathology, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Sandra M Blois
- Department of Obstetrics and Fetal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Hamburg, Germany
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6
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Jovanović Krivokuća M, Vilotić A, Nacka-Aleksić M, Pirković A, Ćujić D, Legner J, Dekanski D, Bojić-Trbojević Ž. Galectins in Early Pregnancy and Pregnancy-Associated Pathologies. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 23:69. [PMID: 35008499 PMCID: PMC8744741 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23010069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 12/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Galectins are a family of conserved soluble proteins defined by an affinity for β-galactoside structures present on various glycoconjugates. Over the past few decades, galectins have been recognized as important factors for successful implantation and maintenance of pregnancy. An increasing number of studies have demonstrated their involvement in trophoblast cell function and placental development. In addition, several lines of evidence suggest their important roles in feto-maternal immune tolerance regulation and angiogenesis. Changed or dysregulated galectin expression is also described in pregnancy-related disorders. Although the data regarding galectins' clinical relevance are still at an early stage, evidence suggests that some galectin family members are promising candidates for better understanding pregnancy-related pathologies, as well as predicting biomarkers. In this review, we aim to summarize current knowledge of galectins in early pregnancy as well as in pregnancy-related pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Žanka Bojić-Trbojević
- Institute for Application of Nuclear Energy Department for Biology of Reproduction, University of Belgrade, Banatska 31b, 11080 Belgrade, Serbia; (M.J.K.); (A.V.); (M.N.-A.); (A.P.); (D.Ć.); (J.L.); (D.D.)
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7
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Abstract
Recurrent pregnancy loss is a distressing pregnancy disorder experienced by ~2.5% of women trying to conceive. Recurrent pregnancy loss is defined as the failure of two or more clinically recognized pregnancies before 20-24 weeks of gestation and includes embryonic and fetal losses. The diagnosis of an early pregnancy loss is relatively straightforward, although progress in predicting and preventing recurrent pregnancy loss has been hampered by a lack of standardized definitions, the uncertainties surrounding the pathogenesis and the highly variable clinical presentation. The prognosis for couples with recurrent pregnancy loss is generally good, although the likelihood of a successful pregnancy depends on maternal age and the number of previous losses. Recurrent pregnancy loss can be caused by chromosomal errors, anatomical uterine defects, autoimmune disorders and endometrial dysfunction. Available treatments target the putative risk factors of pregnancy loss, although the effectiveness of many medical interventions is controversial. Regardless of the underlying aetiology, couples require accurate information on their chances of having a baby and appropriate support should be offered to reduce the psychological burden associated with multiple miscarriages. Future research must investigate the pathogenesis of recurrent pregnancy loss and evaluate novel diagnostic tests and treatments in adequately powered clinical trials.
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8
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Menkhorst E, Zhou W, Santos LL, Delforce S, So T, Rainczuk K, Loke H, Syngelaki A, Varshney S, Williamson N, Pringle K, Young MJ, Nicolaides KH, St-Pierre Y, Dimitriadis E. Galectin-7 Impairs Placentation and Causes Preeclampsia Features in Mice. Hypertension 2020; 76:1185-1194. [PMID: 32862708 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.120.15313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [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: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy-induced disorder unique to humans. The etiology of preeclampsia is poorly understood; however, poor placental formation is thought causal. Galectin-7 is produced by trophoblast and is elevated in first-trimester serum of women who subsequently develop preeclampsia. We hypothesized that elevated placental galectin-7 may be causative of preeclampsia. Here, we demonstrated increased galectin-7 production in chorionic villous samples from women who subsequently develop preterm preeclampsia compared with uncomplicated pregnancies. In vitro, galectin-7 impaired human first-trimester trophoblast outgrowth, increased placental production of the antiangiogenic sFlt-1 splice variant, sFlt-1-e15a, and reduced placental production and secretion of ADAM12 (a disintegrin and metalloproteinase12) and angiotensinogen. In vivo, galectin-7 administration (E8-E12) to pregnant mice caused elevated systolic blood pressure, albuminuria, impaired placentation (reduced labyrinth vascular branching, impaired decidual spiral artery remodeling, and a proinflammatory placental state demonstrated by elevated IL1β, IL6 and reduced IL10), and dysregulated expression of renin-angiotensin system components in the placenta, decidua, and kidney, including angiotensinogen, prorenin, and the angiotensin II type 1 receptor. Collectively, this study demonstrates that elevated galectin-7 during placental formation contributes to abnormal placentation and suggests that it leads to the development of preeclampsia via altering placental production of sFlt-1 and renin-angiotensin system components. Targeting galectin-7 may be a new treatment option for preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Menkhorst
- From the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia (E.M., W.Z., L.L.S., T.S., E.D.).,Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia (E.M., W.Z., L.L.S., T.S., E.D.).,Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia (E.M., K.R., H.L., E.D.)
| | - Wei Zhou
- From the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia (E.M., W.Z., L.L.S., T.S., E.D.).,Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia (E.M., W.Z., L.L.S., T.S., E.D.)
| | - Leilani L Santos
- From the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia (E.M., W.Z., L.L.S., T.S., E.D.).,Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia (E.M., W.Z., L.L.S., T.S., E.D.)
| | - Sarah Delforce
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy (S.D., K.P.), University of Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Sciences (S.D., K.P.), University of Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, NSW, Australia (S.D., K.P.)
| | - Teresa So
- From the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia (E.M., W.Z., L.L.S., T.S., E.D.).,Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia (E.M., W.Z., L.L.S., T.S., E.D.)
| | - Kate Rainczuk
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia (E.M., K.R., H.L., E.D.)
| | - Hannah Loke
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia (E.M., K.R., H.L., E.D.)
| | - Argyro Syngelaki
- Harris Birthright Research Centre for Fetal Medicine, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom (A.S., K.H.N.)
| | - Swati Varshney
- Melbourne Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics Facility, Bio21 Molecular Science & Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, VIC, Australia (S.V., N.W.)
| | - Nicholas Williamson
- Melbourne Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics Facility, Bio21 Molecular Science & Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, VIC, Australia (S.V., N.W.)
| | - Kirsty Pringle
- School of Biomedical Sciences and Pharmacy (S.D., K.P.), University of Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Sciences (S.D., K.P.), University of Newcastle, NSW, Australia.,Pregnancy and Reproduction Program, Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, NSW, Australia (S.D., K.P.)
| | - Morag J Young
- Centre for Endocrinology and Metabolism, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia (M.J.Y.).,Baker Heart & Diabetes Institute, Prahran, VIC, Australia (M.J.Y.)
| | - Kypros H Nicolaides
- Harris Birthright Research Centre for Fetal Medicine, King's College Hospital, London, United Kingdom (A.S., K.H.N.)
| | - Yves St-Pierre
- INRS-Institut Armand-Frappier, Laval, QC, Canada (Y.S.-P.)
| | - Eva Dimitriadis
- From the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia (E.M., W.Z., L.L.S., T.S., E.D.).,Gynaecology Research Centre, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, VIC, Australia (E.M., W.Z., L.L.S., T.S., E.D.).,Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia (E.M., K.R., H.L., E.D.).,Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia (E.D.)
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9
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Pasmatzi E, Papadionysiou C, Monastirli A, Kakkos S, Badavanis G, Adonakis G, Stamatiou G, Tsambaos D. The expression pattern of galectins during human epidermal morphogenesis. Acta Dermatovenerologica Alpina Pannonica et Adriatica 2020. [DOI: 10.15570/actaapa.2020.22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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10
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Blois SM, Dveksler G, Vasta GR, Freitag N, Blanchard V, Barrientos G. Pregnancy Galectinology: Insights Into a Complex Network of Glycan Binding Proteins. Front Immunol 2019; 10:1166. [PMID: 31231368 PMCID: PMC6558399 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2019.01166] [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] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Galectins are a phylogenetically conserved family of soluble β-galactoside binding proteins, consisting of 15 different types, each with a specific function. Galectins contribute to placentation by regulating trophoblast development, migration, and invasion during early pregnancy. In addition, galectins are critical players regulating maternal immune tolerance to the embedded embryo. Recently, the role of galectins in angiogenesis during decidualization and in placenta formation has gained attention. Altered expression of galectins is associated with abnormal pregnancies and infertility. This review focuses on the role of galectins in pregnancy-associated processes and discusses the relevance of galectin-glycan interactions as potential therapeutic targets in pregnancy disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra M Blois
- Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Division of General Internal and Psychosomatic Medicine, Berlin Institute of Health, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany.,Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a Cooperation Between the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, and Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gabriela Dveksler
- Department of Pathology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Gerardo R Vasta
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, UMB, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Nancy Freitag
- Experimental and Clinical Research Center, a Cooperation Between the Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, and Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Véronique Blanchard
- Berlin Institute of Health, Institute of Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Chemistry and Pathobiochemistry, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gabriela Barrientos
- Laboratory of Experimental Medicine, Hospital Alemán, School of Medicine, University of Buenos Aires, CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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11
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Menkhorst EM, Van Sinderen M, Correia J, Dimitriadis E. Trophoblast function is altered by decidual factors in gestational-dependant manner. Placenta 2019; 80:8-11. [PMID: 31103068 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2019.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2019] [Revised: 03/12/2019] [Accepted: 03/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Inadequate implantation and placentation is associated with miscarriage and placental insufficiency. The decidual environment is thought to regulate trophoblast invasion, however this is poorly defined in humans. We aimed to determine the effect of decidualization on trophoblast function. In vitro decidualized primary human endometrial stromal cells (HESC) significantly enhanced first-trimester extravillous trophoblast (EVT) (6-8-weeks gestation) adhesion, outgrowth/invasion. In EVTs from 10 to 12-weeks gestation this effect was absent (adhesion, invasion) or reversed (outgrowth). HESC conditioned media had no effect on trophoblast MMP9 production/activity. Decidualization regulated EVT function in a gestational-dependent manner. This study highlights the importance of trophoblast-decidual synchrony.
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Affiliation(s)
- E M Menkhorst
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, 3186, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - M Van Sinderen
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, 3186, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia
| | - J Correia
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, 3186, Australia
| | - E Dimitriadis
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, 3186, Australia; Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, 3800, Australia.
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12
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Menkhorst E, Griffiths M, Van Sinderen M, Rainczuk K, Niven K, Dimitriadis E. Galectin-7 is elevated in endometrioid (type I) endometrial cancer and promotes cell migration. Oncol Lett 2018; 16:4721-4728. [PMID: 30250540 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2018.9193] [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] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2018] [Accepted: 06/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Endometrial cancer (EC) is the most commonly diagnosed gynecological malignancy in Australian women. Notably, its incidence and mortality rate is increasing. Despite this, there are limited treatment options for EC. Galectin-7 regulates tumorigenesis in numerous epithelial cancer types, but the role of galectin-7 has not been investigated in EC. It was hypothesized that galectin-7 expression would be altered in EC and contribute to the development of EC. Galectin-7 levels in EC and benign endometrium were quantified by reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and ELISA. The effect of recombinant galectin-7 (1 µg/ml) on cell adhesion, proliferation, apoptosis (xCELLigence and flow cytometry), migration (wound healing assay) and gene expression (RT-qPCR) was investigated using three human EC cell lines (Ishikawa, HEC1A and AN3CA). Galectin-7 gene and protein expression was significantly elevated in Grade 3 EC, compared with benign tissues. Galectin-7 was almost undetectable in Ishikawa and AN3CA cells, but highly expressed by HEC1A cells. Recombinant galectin-7 had no significant effect on cell proliferation or apoptosis in any cell line, but significantly reduced cell adhesion in Ishikawa (at 4 and 6 h) and AN3CA (at 2, 3, 4 and 6 h). Galectin-7 significantly promoted Ishikawa migration and significantly elevated collagen type IV α 1 chain and intercellular adhesion molecule 1 (ICAM1) gene expression during wound healing. The present study demonstrated that galectin-7 production increased in EC with increasing cancer grade; therefore, galectin-7 may promote the metastasis of EC by reducing cell-cell adhesion and enhancing cell migration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Menkhorst
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Meaghan Griffiths
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Michelle Van Sinderen
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Kate Rainczuk
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Keith Niven
- FlowCore, Technology Research Platforms, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Evdokia Dimitriadis
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia.,Department of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE Galectins are animal lectins that bind to surface glycoproteins expressed at the fetal-maternal interface. The aim of this prospective case-control study was to investigate the possible relationship between levels of maternal serum galectin-7 and threatened abortion (TA) and to determine whether serum galectin-7 had any prognostic value. METHODS This prospective study was conducted between August 2014 and February 2015. Included in the study were 31 consecutive pregnant women who were hospitalized for TA between 6 and 14 weeks of gestation and 33 healthy gestational age matched pregnant women without any symptoms of miscarriage. Serum galectin-7 levels were measured via ELISA. RESULTS The mean serum galectin-7 levels of the two groups were not significantly different (31 TA patients: 2.84 ± 0.43 pg/mL, 33 controls: 2.785 ± 0.32 pg/mL, p = 0.543). Six pregnancies in the TA group resulted in abortion (19.4%). CONCLUSION Serum galectin-7 was not useful for predicting prognosis in TA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fulya Cagli
- a Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , University of Health Science Training and Research Hospital , Kayseri , Turkey
| | - Gulsum Uysal
- b Adana City Research and Education Hospital , Adana , Turkey
| | - Leyla Oz
- c Department of Biochemistry , University of Health Science Training and Research Hospital , Kayseri , Turkey
| | - Hatice Akkaya
- d Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Zekai Tahir Burak Women's Health Training and Research Hospital , Ankara , Turkey
| | - Huseyin Aksoy
- e Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , University of Health Science Training and Research Hospital , Kayseri , Turkey
| | - Eda Ulku Karakilic
- e Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , University of Health Science Training and Research Hospital , Kayseri , Turkey
| | - Gokhan Acmaz
- e Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , University of Health Science Training and Research Hospital , Kayseri , Turkey
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Advedissian T, Deshayes F, Viguier M. Galectin-7 in Epithelial Homeostasis and Carcinomas. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:E2760. [PMID: 29257082 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18122760] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2017] [Revised: 12/12/2017] [Accepted: 12/14/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Galectins are small unglycosylated soluble lectins distributed both inside and outside the cells. They share a conserved domain for the recognition of carbohydrates (CRD). Although galectins have a common affinity for β-galatosides, they exhibit different binding preferences for complex glycans. First described twenty years ago, galectin-7 is a prototypic galectin, with a single CRD, able to form divalent homodimers. This lectin, which is mainly expressed in stratified epithelia, has been described in epithelial tissues as being involved in apoptotic responses, in proliferation and differentiation but also in cell adhesion and migration. Most members of the galectins family have been associated with cancer biology. One of the main functions of galectins in cancer is their immunomodulating potential and anti-angiogenic activity. Indeed, galectin-1 and -3, are already targeted in clinical trials. Another relevant function of galectins in tumour progression is their ability to regulate cell migration and cell adhesion. Among these galectins, galectin-7 is abnormally expressed in various cancers, most prominently in carcinomas, and is involved in cancer progression and metastasis but its precise functions in tumour biology remain poorly understood. In this issue, we will focus on the physiological functions of galectin-7 in epithelia and present the alterations of galectin-7 expression in carcinomas with the aim to describe its possible functions in tumour progression.
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15
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Nio-Kobayashi J. Tissue- and cell-specific localization of galectins, β-galactose-binding animal lectins, and their potential functions in health and disease. Anat Sci Int 2016; 92:25-36. [PMID: 27590897 DOI: 10.1007/s12565-016-0366-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [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: 07/22/2016] [Accepted: 08/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Fifteen galectins, β-galactose-binding animal lectins, are known to be distributed throughout the body. We herein summarize current knowledge on the tissue- and cell-specific localization of galectins and their potential functions in health and disease. Galectin-3 is widely distributed in epithelia, including the simple columnar epithelium in the gut, stratified squamous epithelium in the gut and skin, and transitional epithelium and several regions in nephrons in the urinary tract. Galectin-2 and galectin-4/6 are gut-specific, while galectin-7 is found in the stratified squamous epithelium in the gut and skin. The reproductive tract mainly contains galectin-1 and galectin-3, and their expression markedly changes during the estrous/menstrual cycle. The galectin subtype expressed in the corpus luteum (CL) changes in association with luteal function. The CL of women and cows displays a "galectin switch" with coordinated changes in the major galectin subtype and its ligand glycoconjugate structure. Macrophages express galectin-3, which may be involved in phagocytotic activity. Lymphoid tissues contain galectin-3-positive macrophages, which are not always stained with the macrophage marker, F4/80. Subsets of neurons in the brain and dorsal root ganglion express galectin-1 and galectin-3, which may contribute to the regeneration of damaged axons, stem cell differentiation, and pain control. The subtype-specific contribution of galectins to implantation, fibrosis, and diabetes are also discussed. The function of galectins may differ depending on the tissues or cells in which they act. The ligand glycoconjugate structures mediated by glycosyltransferases including MGAT5, ST6GAL1, and C2GnT are important for revealing the functions of galectins in healthy and disease states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junko Nio-Kobayashi
- Laboratory of Histology and Cytology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Kita 15-Nishi 7, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-8638, Japan.
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16
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Sun Y, Cheng L, Gu Y, Xin A, Wu B, Zhou S, Guo S, Liu Y, Diao H, Shi H, Wang G, Tao SC. A Human Lectin Microarray for Sperm Surface Glycosylation Analysis. Mol Cell Proteomics 2016; 15:2839-51. [PMID: 27364157 DOI: 10.1074/mcp.m116.059311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Glycosylation is one of the most abundant and functionally important protein post-translational modifications. As such, technology for efficient glycosylation analysis is in high demand. Lectin microarrays are a powerful tool for such investigations and have been successfully applied for a variety of glycobiological studies. However, most of the current lectin microarrays are primarily constructed from plant lectins, which are not well suited for studies of human glycosylation because of the extreme complexity of human glycans. Herein, we constructed a human lectin microarray with 60 human lectin and lectin-like proteins. All of the lectins and lectin-like proteins were purified from yeast, and most showed binding to human glycans. To demonstrate the applicability of the human lectin microarray, human sperm were probed on the microarray and strong bindings were observed for several lectins, including galectin-1, 7, 8, GalNAc-T6, and ERGIC-53 (LMAN1). These bindings were validated by flow cytometry and fluorescence immunostaining. Further, mass spectrometry analysis showed that galectin-1 binds several membrane-associated proteins including heat shock protein 90. Finally, functional assays showed that binding of galectin-8 could significantly enhance the acrosome reaction within human sperms. To our knowledge, this is the first construction of a human lectin microarray, and we anticipate it will find wide use for a range of human or mammalian studies, alone or in combination with plant lectin microarrays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangyang Sun
- From the ‡Shanghai Center for Systems Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Systems Biomedicine (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China; ¶State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China; §§Department of Bioengineering, School of Marine Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology at Weihai, Weihai 264209, China
| | - Li Cheng
- From the ‡Shanghai Center for Systems Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Systems Biomedicine (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China; §School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China; ¶State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Yihua Gu
- ‖China National Population and Family Planning Key Laboratory of Contraceptive Drugs and Devices, SIPPR, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Aijie Xin
- **Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics and IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Bin Wu
- ‖China National Population and Family Planning Key Laboratory of Contraceptive Drugs and Devices, SIPPR, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Shumin Zhou
- ‡‡Institute for Microsurgery of Limbs, Shanghai sixth hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Shujuan Guo
- From the ‡Shanghai Center for Systems Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Systems Biomedicine (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Yin Liu
- From the ‡Shanghai Center for Systems Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Systems Biomedicine (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China; ¶State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Hua Diao
- ‖China National Population and Family Planning Key Laboratory of Contraceptive Drugs and Devices, SIPPR, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Huijuan Shi
- ‖China National Population and Family Planning Key Laboratory of Contraceptive Drugs and Devices, SIPPR, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Guangyu Wang
- §§Department of Bioengineering, School of Marine Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology at Weihai, Weihai 264209, China
| | - Sheng-Ce Tao
- From the ‡Shanghai Center for Systems Biomedicine, Key Laboratory of Systems Biomedicine (Ministry of Education), Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China; §School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China; ¶State Key Laboratory of Oncogenes and Related Genes, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China;
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17
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Unverdorben L, Haufe T, Santoso L, Hofmann S, Jeschke U, Hutter S. Prototype and Chimera-Type Galectins in Placentas with Spontaneous and Recurrent Miscarriages. Int J Mol Sci 2016; 17:E644. [PMID: 27136536 DOI: 10.3390/ijms17050644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2016] [Revised: 04/14/2016] [Accepted: 04/22/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Galectins are galactose binding proteins and, in addition, factors for a wide range of pathologies in pregnancy. We have analyzed the expression of prototype (gal-1, -2, -7, -10) and chimera-type (gal-3) galectins in the placenta in cases of spontaneous abortions (SPA) and recurrent abortions (RA) in the first trimester. Fifteen placental samples from healthy pregnancies were used as a control group. Nine placentas were examined for spontaneous abortions, and 12 placentas for recurrent abortions. For differentiation and evaluation of different cell types of galectin-expression in the decidua, immunofluorescence was used. For all investigated prototype galectins (gal-1, -2, -7, -10) in SPA and RA placenta trophoblast cells the expression is significantly decreased. In the decidua/extravillous trophoblast only gal-2 expression was significantly lowered, which could be connected to its role in angiogenesis. In trophoblasts in first-trimester placentas and in cases of SPA and RA, prototype galectins are altered in the same way. We suspect prototype galectins have a similar function in placental tissue because of their common biochemical structure. Expression of galectin 3 as a chimera type galectin was not found to be significantly altered in abortive placentas.
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18
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Jiang Y, Tian R, Yu S, Zhao YI, Chen Y, Li H, Qiao Y, Wu X. Clinical significance of galectin-7 in vulvar squamous cell carcinoma. Oncol Lett 2015; 10:3826-3831. [PMID: 26788216 PMCID: PMC4665703 DOI: 10.3892/ol.2015.3826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2014] [Accepted: 08/20/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study reports the role of galectin-7 (Gal-7) expression in vulvar squamous cell carcinoma (VSCC) and its correlation with clinicopathological variables. Gal-7 expression was immunohistochemically detected in the paraffin-embedded sections of 20 normal vulvar biopsy samples and 50 VSCC specimens. Expression was also detected in 10 normal vulvar biopsy samples and 10 VSCC specimens by western blotting. In addition, the methylation status of the promoter of the Gal-7 gene was determined in 30 VSCC specimens and 20 samples of normal vulvar tissue by methylation-specific polymerase chain reaction. Gal-7 expression was found to be significantly downregulated in the VSCC tissues compared with the normal vulvar tissues (P<0.05). Downregulation of Gal-7 was correlated with advanced clinical stage, poor tumor differentiation and regional lymph node metastasis (P<0.05). Furthermore, methylation of the Gal-7 gene promoter was significantly reduced in the vulvar normal tissues compared with the VSCC tissues (P=0.023), while increased Gal-7 promoter methylation was correlated with advanced clinical stage, poor tumor differentiation and regional lymph node metastasis (P<0.05). There was no association between patient age and Gal-7 promoter methylation. Together, these results suggested that Gal-7 has a negative impact in patients with VSCC, with malignant potential correlating with Gal-7 promoter methylation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, P.R. China
| | - Ruoyang Tian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, P.R. China
| | - Shuang Yu
- Central Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, P.R. China
| | - Y I Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, P.R. China
| | - Yang Chen
- Central Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, P.R. China
| | - Hui Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, P.R. China
| | - Ying Qiao
- Central Laboratory, First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, P.R. China
| | - Xin Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning 110001, P.R. China
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Gendronneau G, Sanii S, Dang T, Deshayes F, Delacour D, Pichard E, Advedissian T, Sidhu SS, Viguier M, Magnaldo T, Poirier F. Overexpression of galectin-7 in mouse epidermis leads to loss of cell junctions and defective skin repair. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0119031. [PMID: 25741714 PMCID: PMC4351092 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0119031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2014] [Accepted: 01/12/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The proteins of the galectin family are implicated in many cellular processes, including cell interactions, polarity, intracellular trafficking, and signal transduction. In human and mouse, galectin-7 is almost exclusively expressed in stratified epithelia, notably in the epidermis. Galectin-7 expression is also altered in several human tumors of epithelial origin. This study aimed at dissecting the consequences of galectin-7 overexpression on epidermis structure and functions in vivo. METHODS We established transgenic mice specifically overexpressing galectin-7 in the basal epidermal keratinocytes and analyzed the consequences on untreated skin and after UVB irradiation or mechanical injury. RESULTS The intercellular cohesion of the epidermis is impaired in transgenic animals, with gaps developing between adjacent keratinocytes, associated with loss of adherens junctions. The epidermal architecture is aberrant with perturbations in the multilayered cellular organisation of the tissue, and structural defects in the basement membrane. These transgenic animals displayed a reduced re-epithelialisation potential following superficial wound, due to a defective collective migration of keratinocytes. Finally, a single mild dose of UVB induced an abnormal apoptotic response in the transgenic epidermis. CONCLUSION These results indicate that an excess of galectin-7 leads to a destabilisation of adherens junctions associated with defects in epidermal repair. As this phenotype shares similarities with that of galectin-7 null mutant mice, we conclude that a critical level of this protein is required for maintaining proper epidermal homeostasis. This study brings new insight into the mode of action of galectins in normal and pathological situations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaëlle Gendronneau
- Institut Jacques Monod, UMR CNRS 7592, Paris-Diderot University, Paris, France
| | - Sadaf Sanii
- Institut Jacques Monod, UMR CNRS 7592, Paris-Diderot University, Paris, France
| | - Tien Dang
- Institut Jacques Monod, UMR CNRS 7592, Paris-Diderot University, Paris, France
| | - Frédérique Deshayes
- Institut Jacques Monod, UMR CNRS 7592, Paris-Diderot University, Paris, France
| | - Delphine Delacour
- Institut Jacques Monod, UMR CNRS 7592, Paris-Diderot University, Paris, France
| | - Evelyne Pichard
- Institut Jacques Monod, UMR CNRS 7592, Paris-Diderot University, Paris, France
| | - Tamara Advedissian
- Institut Jacques Monod, UMR CNRS 7592, Paris-Diderot University, Paris, France
| | - Sukhvinder S. Sidhu
- Institut Jacques Monod, UMR CNRS 7592, Paris-Diderot University, Paris, France
| | - Mireille Viguier
- Institut Jacques Monod, UMR CNRS 7592, Paris-Diderot University, Paris, France
| | | | - Francoise Poirier
- Institut Jacques Monod, UMR CNRS 7592, Paris-Diderot University, Paris, France
- * E-mail:
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Constantinou PE, Morgado M, Carson DD. Transmembrane Mucin Expression and Function in Embryo Implantation and Placentation. Adv Anat Embryol Cell Biol 2015; 216:51-68. [PMID: 26450494 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-15856-3_4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Transmembrane mucins (TMs) are extremely large, complex glycoproteins that line the apical surfaces of simple epithelia including those of the female reproductive tract. TMs provide a physical barrier consistent with their role as part of the innate immune system. This barrier function must be overcome in the context of embryo implantation to permit blastocyst attachment. Three major TMs have been identified in uterine epithelia of multiple species: MUC1, MUC4, and MUC16. MUC1 has been found in all species studied to date, whereas expression of MUC4 and MUC16 have been less well studied and may be species specific. The strategies for removing mucins to permit embryo attachment also vary in a species-specific way and include both hormonal suppression of TM gene expression and membrane clearance via cell surface proteases. Studies emerging from the cancer literature indicate that TMs can modulate a surprisingly wide variety of signal transduction processes. Furthermore, various cell surface proteins have been identified that bind either the oligosaccharide or protein motifs of TMs suggesting that these molecules may support cell attachment in some contexts, including trophoblast interactions with cells of the immune system. The intimate association of TMs at sites of embryo-maternal interaction and the varied functions these complex molecules can play make them key players in embryo implantation and placentation processes.
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Blois SM, Conrad ML, Freitag N, Barrientos G. Galectins in angiogenesis: consequences for gestation. J Reprod Immunol 2014; 108:33-41. [PMID: 25622880 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2014.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [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: 09/02/2014] [Revised: 11/26/2014] [Accepted: 12/03/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Members of the galectin family have been shown to exert several roles in the context of reproduction. They contribute to placentation, maternal immune regulation and facilitate angiogenesis encompassing decidualisation and placenta formation during pregnancy. In the context of neo-vascularisation, galectins have been shown to augment signalling pathways that lead to endothelial cell activation, cell proliferation, migration and tube formation in vitro in addition to angiogenesis in vivo. Angiogenesis during gestation ensures not only proper foetal growth and development, but also maternal health. Consequently, restriction of placental blood flow has major consequences for both foetus and mother, leading to pregnancy diseases. In this review we summarise both the established and the emerging roles of galectin in angiogenesis and discuss the possible implications during healthy and pathological gestation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra M Blois
- Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charité-Center 12 Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Medizinische Klinik mit Schwerpunkt Psychosomatik, Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Melanie L Conrad
- Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charité-Center 12 Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Medizinische Klinik mit Schwerpunkt Psychosomatik, Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Berlin, Germany
| | - Nancy Freitag
- Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Charité-Center 12 Internal Medicine and Dermatology, Medizinische Klinik mit Schwerpunkt Psychosomatik, Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gabriela Barrientos
- Laboratorio de Medicina Experimental, Hospital Alemán, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Evans J, Yap J, Gamage T, Salamonsen L, Dimitriadis E, Menkhorst E. Galectin-7 is important for normal uterine repair following menstruation. Mol Hum Reprod 2014; 20:787-98. [PMID: 24782449 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gau032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [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: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Menstruation involves the shedding of the functional layer of the endometrium in the absence of pregnancy. At sites where tissue shedding is complete, re-epithelialization of the tissue is essential for repair and termination of bleeding. The complement of growth factors that mediate post-menstrual endometrial repair are yet to be completely elucidated. Galectins regulate many cell functions important for post-menstrual repair, such as cell adhesion and migration. Galectin-7 has a well characterized role in re-epithelialization and wound healing. We hypothesized that galectin-7 would be important in re-epithelialization during post-menstrual repair. We aimed to identify endometrial expression of galectin-7 in women undergoing normal endometrial repair and in women with amenorrhoea who do not experience endometrial breakdown and repair, and to determine whether galectin-7 enhances endometrial re-epithelialization in vitro. Galectin-7 immunolocalized to the endometrial luminal and glandular epithelium during the late secretory and menstrual phases, and to decidualized stroma in regions exhibiting tissue breakdown. Immunostaining intensity was significantly reduced in the endometrium of women with amenorrhoea compared with normally cycling woman. ELISA identified galectin-7 in menstrual fluid at significantly elevated levels compared with matched peripheral plasma. Exogenous galectin-7 (2.5 µg/ml) significantly enhanced endometrial epithelial wound repair in vitro; this was abrogated by inhibition of integrin binding. Galectin-7 elevated epithelial expression of extracellular matrix-related molecules likely involved in repair including β-catenin, contactin and TGF-β1. In conclusion, galectin-7 is produced by the premenstrual and menstrual endometrium, where it accumulates in menstrual fluid and likely acts as a paracrine factor to facilitate post-menstrual endometrial re-epithelialization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jemma Evans
- Endometrial Remodelling Laboratory, MIMR-PHI Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Joanne Yap
- Endometrial Remodelling Laboratory, MIMR-PHI Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Thillini Gamage
- Embryo Implantation Laboratory, MIMR-PHI Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Lois Salamonsen
- Endometrial Remodelling Laboratory, MIMR-PHI Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Evdokia Dimitriadis
- Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
| | - Ellen Menkhorst
- Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
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Menkhorst E, Koga K, Van Sinderen M, Dimitriadis E. Galectin-7 serum levels are altered prior to the onset of pre-eclampsia. Placenta 2014; 35:281-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2014.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2013] [Revised: 01/20/2014] [Accepted: 01/23/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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