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Thach B, Wang Y, Heng S, Nie G. HtrA4 is required for human trophoblast stem cell differentiation into syncytiotrophoblast. Placenta 2024; 147:68-77. [PMID: 38325051 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2024.01.018] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The syncytiotrophoblast (STB) of the human placenta facilitates vital maternal-fetal communication and is maintained by fusion (syncytialization) of cytotrophoblasts. Serine protease HtrA4 (high temperature requirement factor A4) is highly expressed only in the human placenta and was previously reported to be important for BeWo fusion. This study investigated whether HtrA4 is critical for differentiation of human trophoblast stem cells (TSCs) into STB. METHODS Primary TSCs were isolated from first trimester placentas (n = 5) and validated by immunofluorescence (IF) for CD49f, CK7 and vimentin. TSCs were then differentiated into STB and the success of syncytialization was confirmed by RT-PCR, IF and ELISA of known markers. TSCs were next stably transfected with a HtrA4-targetting CRISPR/Cas9 plasmid, and cells with severe HtrA4 knockdown (HtrA4-KD) were analyzed to investigate the impact on STB differentiation. RESULTS Primary TSCs were confirmed to be of high purity by staining positively for CD49f and CK7 but negatively for vimentin. These TSCs readily syncytialized when stimulated for STB differentiation, significantly increasing β-hCG and syncytin-1, substantially decreasing E-cadherin, and markedly losing cell borders. While TSCs produced very low levels of HtrA4, upon stimulation for STB differentiation the cells drastically upregulated HtrA4 expression; secretion of HtrA4 protein also increased sharply, correlating positively and significantly with that of β-hCG. The HtrA4-KD TSCs, however, failed to show this surge of HtrA4 production upon stimulation, and ultimately remained primarily mononucleated with no significant STB differentiation. DISCUSSION This study demonstrates that HtrA4 plays a critical role in TSC differentiation into syncytiotrophoblast.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bothidah Thach
- Implantation and Pregnancy Research Laboratory, School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3083, Australia
| | - Yao Wang
- Implantation and Pregnancy Research Laboratory, School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3083, Australia
| | - Sophea Heng
- Implantation and Pregnancy Research Laboratory, School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3083, Australia
| | - Guiying Nie
- Implantation and Pregnancy Research Laboratory, School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, Victoria, 3083, Australia.
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2
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Parameshwar PK, Vaillancourt C, Moraes C. Engineering placental trophoblast fusion: A potential role for biomechanics in syncytialization. Placenta 2024:S0143-4004(24)00054-7. [PMID: 38448351 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2024.02.006] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Revised: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
The process by which placental trophoblasts fuse to form the syncytiotrophoblast around the chorionic villi is not fully understood. Mechanical features of the in vivo and in vitro culture environments have recently emerged as having the potential to influence fusion efficiency, and considering these mechanical cues may ultimately allow predictive control of trophoblast syncytialization. Here, we review recent studies that suggest that biomechanical factors such as shear stress, tissue stiffness, and dimensionally-related stresses affect villous trophoblast fusion efficiency. We then discuss how these stimuli might arise in vivo and how they can be incorporated in cultures to study and enhance villous trophoblast fusion. We believe that this mechanical paradigm will provide novel insight into manipulating the syncytialization process to better engineer improved models, understand disease progression, and ultimately develop novel therapeutic strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cathy Vaillancourt
- Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS)-Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, Laval, QC, H7B 1B7, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Université de Montréal, and Research Center Centre Intégré Universitaire de Santé et de Services Sociaux (CIUSSS) du Nord-de-l'Île-de-Montréal, Montréal, QC, H3L 1K5, Canada
| | - Christopher Moraes
- Department of Biological and Biomedical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3A 2B4, Canada; Department of Chemical Engineering, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3A 0C5, Canada; Goodman Cancer Research Centre, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H3A 1A3, Canada; Division of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montréal, QC, H4A 3J1, Canada.
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3
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Podinić T, MacAndrew A, Raha S. Trophoblast Syncytialization: A Metabolic Crossroads. Results Probl Cell Differ 2024; 71:101-125. [PMID: 37996675 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-37936-9_6] [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] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
During placentation, villous cytotrophoblast (CTB) stem cells proliferate and fuse, giving rise to the multinucleated syncytiotrophoblast (STB), which represents the terminally differentiated villous layer as well as the maternal-fetal interface. The syncytiotrophoblast is at the forefront of nutrient, gas, and waste exchange while also harboring essential endocrine functions to support pregnancy and fetal development. Considering that mitochondrial dynamics and respiration have been implicated in stem cell fate decisions of several cell types and that the placenta is a mitochondria-rich organ, we will highlight the role of mitochondria in facilitating trophoblast differentiation and maintaining trophoblast function. We discuss both the process of syncytialization and the distinct metabolic characteristics associated with CTB and STB sub-lineages prior to and during syncytialization. As mitochondrial respiration is tightly coupled to redox homeostasis, we emphasize the adaptations of mitochondrial respiration to the hypoxic placental environment. Furthermore, we highlight the critical role of mitochondria in conferring the steroidogenic potential of the STB following differentiation. Ultimately, mitochondrial function and morphological changes centrally regulate respiration and influence trophoblast fate decisions through the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), whose levels modulate the transcriptional activation or suppression of pluripotency or commitment genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tina Podinić
- Department of Pediatrics and Graduate Program in Medical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Andie MacAndrew
- Department of Pediatrics and Graduate Program in Medical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - Sandeep Raha
- Department of Pediatrics and Graduate Program in Medical Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada.
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Seo H, Bazer FW, Johnson GA. Early Syncytialization of the Ovine Placenta Revisited. Results Probl Cell Differ 2024; 71:127-142. [PMID: 37996676 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-37936-9_7] [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] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
Placentation is the development of a temporary arrangement between the maternal uterus and blastocyst-derived placental tissues designed to transport nutrients, gases, and other products from the mother to the embryo and fetus. Placentation differs histologically among species, but all types of placentation share the common trait of utilizing highly complex cell-to-cell and tissue-to-tissue morphological and biochemical interactions to remodel the uterine-placental interface. An elegant series of electron microscopy (EM) images supports the classification of ovine placentation as synepitheliochorial, because uterine luminal epithelial (LE) cells are maintained at the uterine-placental interface through incorporation into trophoblast syncytial plaques. In this review, we utilize immunofluorescence microscopy to provide further insights into early syncytialization of the ovine placenta. These observations, based on results using immunofluorescence microscopy, complement and expand, not replace, our understanding of syncytialization in sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heewon Seo
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA.
| | - Fuller W Bazer
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Gregory A Johnson
- Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
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Ohyama N, Furugen A, Sawada R, Aoyagi R, Nishimura A, Umazume T, Narumi K, Kobayashi M. Effects of valproic acid on syncytialization in human placental trophoblast cell lines. Toxicol Appl Pharmacol 2023; 474:116611. [PMID: 37385477 DOI: 10.1016/j.taap.2023.116611] [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: 03/19/2023] [Revised: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
The placenta is a critical organ for fetal development and a healthy pregnancy, and has multifaceted functions (e.g., substance exchange and hormone secretion). Syncytialization of trophoblasts is important for maintaining placental functions. Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological conditions worldwide. Therefore, this study aimed to reveal the influence of antiepileptic drugs, including valproic acid (VPA), carbamazepine, lamotrigine, gabapentin, levetiracetam, topiramate, lacosamide, and clobazam, at clinically relevant concentrations on syncytialization using in vitro models of trophoblasts. To induce differentiation into syncytiotrophoblast-like cells, BeWo cells were treated with forskolin. Exposure to VPA was found to dose-dependently influence syncytialization-associated genes (ERVW-1, ERVFRD-1, GJA1, CGB, CSH, SLC1A5, and ABCC4) in differentiated BeWo cells. Herein, the biomarkers between differentiated BeWo cells and the human trophoblast stem model (TSCT) were compared. In particular, MFSD2A levels were low in BeWo cells but abundant in TSCT cells. VPA exposure affected the expression of ERVW-1, ERVFRD-1, GJA1, CSH, MFSD2A, and ABCC4 in differentiated cells (ST-TSCT). Furthermore, VPA exposure attenuated BeWo and TSCT cell fusion. Finally, the relationships between neonatal/placental parameters and the expression of syncytialization markers in human term placentas were analyzed. MFSD2A expression was positively correlated with neonatal body weight, head circumference, chest circumference, and placental weight. Our findings have important implications for better understanding the mechanisms of toxicity of antiepileptic drugs and predicting the risks to placental and fetal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanami Ohyama
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmaceutics & Therapeutics, Division of Pharmasciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Japan
| | - Ayako Furugen
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmaceutics & Therapeutics, Division of Pharmasciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Japan.
| | - Riko Sawada
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmaceutics & Therapeutics, Division of Pharmasciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Japan
| | - Ryoichi Aoyagi
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmaceutics & Therapeutics, Division of Pharmasciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Japan
| | | | - Takeshi Umazume
- Department of Obstetrics, Hokkaido University Hospital, Japan
| | - Katsuya Narumi
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmaceutics & Therapeutics, Division of Pharmasciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Japan
| | - Masaki Kobayashi
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmaceutics & Therapeutics, Division of Pharmasciences, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hokkaido University, Japan.
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Su AL, Loch-Caruso R. Apoptotic responses stimulated by the trichloroethylene metabolite S-(1,2-dichlorovinyl)-L-cysteine depend on cell differentiation state in BeWo human trophoblast cells. Toxicol In Vitro 2023; 86:105514. [PMID: 36336211 PMCID: PMC9949904 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2022.105514] [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] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2022] [Revised: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 10/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
During pregnancy, the placental villous cytotrophoblasts differentiate via cell fusion and multinucleation to create syncytiotrophoblasts, a cell type at the maternal-fetal interface. Apoptosis of syncytiotrophoblasts is associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. The human trophoblast BeWo cell line has been used as an in vitro model for this differentiation process, also known as syncytialization. In the current study, we exposed unsyncytialized BeWo cells, BeWo cells undergoing syncytialization, and syncytialized BeWo cells to S-(1,2-dichlorovinyl)-L-cysteine (DCVC), a metabolite of the industrial chemical trichloroethylene (TCE). DCVC exposure at 50 μM for 48 h decreased cell viability, increased cytotoxicity, increased caspase 3/7 activity, and increased nuclear condensation or fragmentation in BeWo cells regardless of their differentiation status. Investigating mechanisms of apoptosis, DCVC increased H2O2 abundance and decreased PRDX2 mRNA in all three BeWo cell models. DCVC decreased tumor necrosis factor-receptor 1 (TNF-R1) concentration in media and decreased NFKB1 and PRDX1 mRNA expression in syncytialized BeWo cells only. DCVC decreased BCL2 mRNA expression in syncytializing BeWo cells and in syncytialized BeWo cells only. Decreased LGALS3 mRNA was seen in unsyncytialized BeWo cells only. Together, these data suggest roles for oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory mechanisms underlying apoptosis in BeWo cells with differences depending on differentiation state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony L Su
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2029, USA.
| | - Rita Loch-Caruso
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, University of Michigan, 1415 Washington Heights, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2029, USA.
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Gauster M, Moser G, Wernitznig S, Kupper N, Huppertz B. Early human trophoblast development: from morphology to function. Cell Mol Life Sci 2022; 79:345. [PMID: 35661923 PMCID: PMC9167809 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-022-04377-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [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: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Human pregnancy depends on the proper development of the embryo prior to implantation and the implantation of the embryo into the uterine wall. During the pre-implantation phase, formation of the morula is followed by internalization of blastomeres that differentiate into the pluripotent inner cell mass lineage, while the cells on the surface undergo polarization and differentiate into the trophectoderm of the blastocyst. The trophectoderm mediates apposition and adhesion of the blastocyst to the uterine epithelium. These processes lead to a stable contact between embryonic and maternal tissues, resulting in the formation of a new organ, the placenta. During implantation, the trophectoderm cells start to differentiate and form the basis for multiple specialized trophoblast subpopulations, all of which fulfilling specific key functions in placentation. They either differentiate into polar cells serving typical epithelial functions, or into apolar invasive cells that adapt the uterine wall to progressing pregnancy. The composition of these trophoblast subpopulations is crucial for human placenta development and alterations are suggested to result in placenta-associated pregnancy pathologies. This review article focuses on what is known about very early processes in human reproduction and emphasizes on morphological and functional aspects of early trophoblast differentiation and subpopulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Gauster
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Gerit Moser
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Stefan Wernitznig
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Nadja Kupper
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6, 8010, Graz, Austria
| | - Berthold Huppertz
- Division of Cell Biology, Histology and Embryology, Gottfried Schatz Research Center, Medical University of Graz, Neue Stiftingtalstraße 6, 8010, Graz, Austria.
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8
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Sethuraman V, Pu Y, Gingrich J, Jing J, Long R, Olomu IN, Veiga-Lopez A. Expression of ABC transporters during syncytialization in preeclampsia. Pregnancy Hypertens 2022; 27:181-188. [PMID: 35124425 PMCID: PMC9017055 DOI: 10.1016/j.preghy.2022.01.006] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Preeclampsia complicates 2-8% of pregnancies and is associated with prematurity and intrauterine growth restriction. Cholesterol and sterol transport is a key function of the placenta and it is elicited through ATP binding cassette (ABC) transporters. ABCA1 expression changes during trophoblast cell fusion, a process required to form the placental syncytium that enables maternal-fetal nutrient transfer. ABCA1 expression is dysregulated in preeclamptic placentas. But whether ABC transporters expression during trophoblast fusion is disrupted in preeclampsia remains unknown. We investigated if cholesterol and sterol ABC transporters are altered in term and preterm preeclampsia placentas and during human cytotrophoblast syncytialization. Human placental biopsies were collected from healthy term (≥37 weeks; n = 11) and term preeclamptic (≥36 6/7 weeks; n = 8) and pre-term preeclamptic (28-35 weeks; n = 8) pregnancies. Both, protein and mRNA expression for ABCA1, ABCG1, ABCG5, and ABCG8 were evaluated. Primary cytotrophoblasts isolated from a subset of placentas were induced to syncytialize for 96 h and ABCA1, ABCG1 and ABCG8 mRNA expression evaluated at 0 h and 96 h. Protein and gene expression of ABC transporters were not altered in preeclamptic placentas. In the healthy Term group, ABCA1 expression was similar before and after syncytialization. After 96 h of syncytialization, mRNA expression of ABCA1 and ABCG1 increased significantly, while ABCG8 decreased significantly in term-preeclampsia, but not pre-term preeclampsia. While placental expression of ABCA1 and ABCG1 remained unaltered in term preeclampsia, the disruption in their dynamic expression pattern during cytotrophoblast syncytialization suggests that cholesterol transport may contribute to the pathophysiologic role of the placenta in preeclampsia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Visalakshi Sethuraman
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Yong Pu
- Department of Pathology, University of Illinois at Chicago
| | - Jeremy Gingrich
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Jiongjie Jing
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Robert Long
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sparrow Health System, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Isoken Nicholas Olomu
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics and Human Development, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Almudena Veiga-Lopez
- Department of Pathology, University of Illinois at Chicago, USA; Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI, USA.
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9
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Mimura N, Nagamatsu T, Morita K, Taguchi A, Toya T, Kumasawa K, Iriyama T, Kawana K, Inoue N, Fujii T, Osuga Y. Suppression of human trophoblast syncytialization by human cytomegalovirus infection. Placenta 2021; 117:200-208. [PMID: 34933151 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2021.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [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: 05/09/2021] [Revised: 11/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Placental dysfunction triggers fetal growth restriction in congenital human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) infection. Studies suggest that HCMV infection interferes with the differentiation of human trophoblasts. However, the underlying mechanisms have not been clarified. This study investigated the impact of HCMV infection on gene transcriptomes in cytotrophoblasts (CTBs) associated with placental dysfunction. METHODS CTBs were isolated from human term placentas, and spontaneous syncytialization was observed in vitro. The transcriptome profiles were compared between CTB groups with and without HCMV infection by cap analysis gene expression sequencing. The effect of HCMV infection on trophoblast differentiation was evaluated by examining cell fusion status using immunocytochemical staining for desmoplakin and assessing the production of cell differentiation markers, including hCG, PlGF, and soluble Flt-1, using ELISA. RESULTS The expression of the genes categorized in the signaling pathways related to the cell cycle was significantly enhanced in CTBs with HCMV infection compared with uninfected CTBs. HCMV infection hindered the alteration of the gene expression profile associated with syncytialization. This suppressive effect under HCMV infection was concurrent with the reduction in hCG and PlGF secretion. Immunostaining for desmoplakin revealed that HCMV infection reduced the cell fusion of cultured CTBs. These findings imply that HCMV infection has a negative impact on syncytialization, which is indispensable for the maintenance of villous function. DISCUSSION HCMV infection interferes with gene expression profiles and functional differentiation of trophoblasts. Suppression of syncytialization may be a survival strategy for HCMV to expand infection and could be associated with placental dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nobuko Mimura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takeshi Nagamatsu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Japan.
| | - Kazuki Morita
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ayumi Taguchi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takashi Toya
- Hematology Division, Tokyo Metropolitan Komagome Hospital, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Keiichi Kumasawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takayuki Iriyama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kei Kawana
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Nihon University, Japan
| | - Naoki Inoue
- Microbiology and Immunology, Gifu Pharmaceutical University, Gifu, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Fujii
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yutaka Osuga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Japan
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Colson A, Depoix CL, Hubinont C, Debiève F. Isolation of Primary Cytotrophoblasts From Human Placenta at Term. Bio Protoc 2021; 11:e4185. [PMID: 34722831 DOI: 10.21769/bioprotoc.4185] [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] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The placenta is a multifaceted organ, fulfilling critical functions for the fetus and the mother. Therefore, it is a critical regulator of the pregnancy, and its dysfunction leads to diseases, including fetal growth restriction and preeclampsia. Studying the placenta is a difficult task since its existence is transient, and its structure is specific to our species. In vitro differentiation of primary cytotrophoblast isolated from term human placenta has been widely used in the placental research field as it represents a reliable model to study cellular differentiation and function. Direct alternatives include trophoblastic cell lines, explants, and organoids, but this protocol, based on the separation of the cells on a Percoll gradient, presents the advantage of being relatively cheap and easy to perform in every research laboratory. Furthermore, the 2D culture is a flexible method that can be adapted to various experimental conditions (transfection, drug exposure, metabolic study, observations, etc.), allowing mechanistic explorations of cellular processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur Colson
- Pole of Obstetrics, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research (IREC), Catholic University of Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Obstetrics, Saint-Luc University Hospital, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Christophe Louis Depoix
- Pole of Obstetrics, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research (IREC), Catholic University of Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Corinne Hubinont
- Pole of Obstetrics, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research (IREC), Catholic University of Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Obstetrics, Saint-Luc University Hospital, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Frédéric Debiève
- Pole of Obstetrics, Institute of Experimental and Clinical Research (IREC), Catholic University of Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Obstetrics, Saint-Luc University Hospital, Brussels, Belgium
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Nakashima A, Shima T, Aoki A, Kawaguchi M, Yasuda I, Tsuda S, Yoneda S, Yamaki-Ushijima A, Cheng SB, Sharma S, Saito S. Molecular and immunological developments in placentas. Hum Immunol 2021; 82:317-24. [PMID: 33581928 DOI: 10.1016/j.humimm.2021.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Revised: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Cytotrophoblasts differentiate in two directions during early placentation: syncytiotrophoblasts (STBs) and extravillous trophoblasts (EVTs). STBs face maternal immune cells in placentas, and EVTs, which invade the decidua and uterine myometrium, face the cells in the uterus. This situation, in which trophoblasts come into contact with maternal immune cells, is known as the maternal-fetal interface. Despite fetuses and fetus-derived trophoblast cells being of the semi-allogeneic conceptus, fetuses and placentas are not rejected by the maternal immune system because of maternal-fetal tolerance. The acquired tolerance develops during normal placentation, resulting in normal fetal development in humans. In this review, we introduce placental development from the viewpoint of molecular biology. In addition, we discuss how the disruption of placental development could lead to complications in pregnancy, such as hypertensive disorder of pregnancy, fetal growth restriction, or miscarriage.
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Takahashi K, Yoneyama Y, Koizumi N, Utoguchi N, Kanayama N, Higashi N. Expression of p57 KIP2 reduces growth and invasion, and induces syncytialization in a human placental choriocarcinoma cell line, BeWo. Placenta 2020; 104:168-178. [PMID: 33360007 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2020.11.010] [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] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Syncytiotrophoblasts are the major components of the human placenta involved in fetal maternal exchange and hormone secretion. The syncytiotrophoblasts arise from the fusion of villous cytotrophoblasts. The cell cycle suppressor p57KIP2 is known to be an essential molecule for proper trophoblast differentiation during placental formation. METHODS We generated p57KIP2-expressing BeWo transfectant cells. Proliferation assay and matrigel invasion assay were used to characterize p57KIP2-expressing BeWo transfectant cells. To reveal the role of p57KIP2 in syncytialization, we proceeded syncytium formation analysis and qRT-PCR for detection of the expression levels Syncytin-1, Syncytin-2 and their receptors. RESULTS The human choriocarcinoma cell line, BeWo has undetectable levels of p57KIP2 expression. Expression of p57KIP2 reduced cell proliferation rate and extracellular matrix invasion activity. p57KIP2 expressing cells displayed multinucleated cells associated with syncytiotrophoblast differentiation. In the syncytialization event, p57KIP2 was found to potentiate forskolin-induced upregulation of Syncytin-2 in a cAMP-independent manner. DISCUSSION These results indicate that the expression of p57KIP2 may act on the proliferation/invasion inhibitory factor and enhance the expression of Syncytin-2, which are associated with syncytialization in cytotrophoblasts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katsuhiko Takahashi
- Department of Biochemistry, Hoshi University, 2-4-41, Ebara, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, 142-8501, Japan; Department of Anatomy, Showa Univerisity School of Medicine, 1-5-8 Hatanodai, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, 142-8555, Japan.
| | - Yui Yoneyama
- Department of Biochemistry, Hoshi University, 2-4-41, Ebara, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, 142-8501, Japan.
| | - Naoya Koizumi
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, Showa Pharmaceutical University, 3-3165 Higashitamagawagakuen, Machida, Tokyo, 194-8543, Japan.
| | - Naoki Utoguchi
- Department of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics, Showa Pharmaceutical University, 3-3165 Higashitamagawagakuen, Machida, Tokyo, 194-8543, Japan.
| | - Naohiro Kanayama
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hamamatsu University School of Medicine, 3600, Handa-cho, Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, 431-3192, Japan.
| | - Nobuaki Higashi
- Department of Biochemistry, Hoshi University, 2-4-41, Ebara, Shinagawa-ku, Tokyo, 142-8501, Japan.
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Etcheverry T, Accialini P, Palligas M, Loureiro F, Saraco N, Martínez N, Farina M. Endocannabinoid signaling impairs syncytialization: Using flow cytometry to evaluate forskolin-induced cell fusion. Placenta 2021; 103:152-5. [PMID: 33126049 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2020.10.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Cytotrophoblast cells fuse to form the syncytiotrophoblast, the main structure responsible for the placenta's specialized functions. This complex process denominated syncytialization is fundamental for a correct pregnancy outcome. We observed that the endocannabinoid anandamide disrupts syncytialization employing traditional techniques and flow cytometry in BeWo cell line.
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14
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Wang HL, Liang N, Huang DX, Zhao XY, Dang QY, Jiang XY, Xiao R, Yu HL. The effects of high-density lipoprotein and oxidized high-density lipoprotein on forskolin-induced syncytialization of BeWo cells. Placenta 2020; 103:199-205. [PMID: 33160253 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2020.10.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The negative relationship between maternal high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-c) level during pregnancy and infant birth weight has been found. Syncytialization (differentiation and fusion) of trophoblast cells is important to fetal development. HDL has an antioxidant effect, and has been proved to protect trophoblast functions including hormone secretion and invasion. However, HDL is susceptible to oxidation, and high concentrations of HDL impair cell growth and oxidized HDL (oxHDL) inhibits cell proliferation and migration. Moreover, the effects of HDL and oxHDL on trophoblast syncytialization have not been characterized. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of HDL and oxHDL on trophoblast syncytialization. METHODS Human choriocarcinoma trophoblasts (BeWo cells) were treated with human HDL or oxHDL and then induced to differentiate by forskolin in syncytialization assays. Expression levels of mRNAs and proteins regulating syncytialization were detected by real-time PCR and western blotting, respectively. RESULTS Treatments of HDL at high concentrations reduced human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) secretion, placental alkaline phosphatase activity and fusion rates, and decreased the expressions of GCM1 and ERVW-1 mRNA as well as phospho-MAPK1/3 (p-MAPK1/3) and total MAPK1/3 protein in the forskolin-induced syncytialization of BeWo cells. Furthermore, treatment of oxHDL (20 μg/ml) decreased hCG secretion, but increased the expression of p-MAPK1/3 protein. DISCUSSION These data suggested that both HDL at high concentrations and oxHDL inhibited BeWo cells syncytialization, and might be harmful to placental and fetal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong-Liang Wang
- School of Public Health, Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Ning Liang
- School of Public Health, Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Dong-Xu Huang
- School of Public Health, Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Xiao-Yan Zhao
- School of Public Health, Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Qin-Yu Dang
- School of Public Health, Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Xin-Yin Jiang
- Departments of Health and Nutrition Sciences, Brooklyn College of City University of New York, NY, 11210, USA
| | - Rong Xiao
- School of Public Health, Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China
| | - Huan-Ling Yu
- School of Public Health, Beijing Key Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, China.
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Xiao Z, Yan L, Liang X, Wang H. Progress in deciphering trophoblast cell differentiation during human placentation. Curr Opin Cell Biol 2020; 67:86-91. [PMID: 32957014 DOI: 10.1016/j.ceb.2020.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [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: 03/29/2020] [Revised: 07/11/2020] [Accepted: 08/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
The maintenance of gestational well-being requires the proper development of both the embryo and the placenta. Placental trophoblast cells are the major building blocks of the developing placenta. Abnormal trophoblast differentiation underpins placental-based pregnancy complications. However, the mechanisms that govern trophoblast differentiation remain largely unclear. Recent studies shed light on several proteins and regulators that are involved in governing trophoblast differentiation. The advancement of new tools and novel technologies, such as the human trophoblast stem cell culture system, 3D placental organoids and single-cell multi-omics, has brought incredible insights to the field. Here we review the current literature, paying particular attention to articles published between 2017 and 2019 that have promoted our understanding of human trophoblast cell differentiation and its roles in pregnancy and its complications. At the same time, we address challenges and questions arising in the field of human placental development and disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenyu Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China; Innovation Academy for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China
| | - Long Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China; Innovation Academy for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Xiaoyan Liang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 51000, China.
| | - Hongmei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China; Innovation Academy for Stem Cell and Regeneration, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
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Kallol S, Moser-Haessig R, Ontsouka CE, Albrecht C. Comparative expression patterns of selected membrane transporters in differentiated BeWo and human primary trophoblast cells. Placenta 2018; 72-73:48-52. [PMID: 30501881 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2018.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2018] [Revised: 10/25/2018] [Accepted: 10/27/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Although placental membrane transporters have an important impact on materno-fetal nutrient transfer, placental cell models are poorly characterized regarding transporter expression. We assessed the mRNA expression of 26 physiologically important solute carriers and ABC transporters in BeWo (b30 clone) and primary human trophoblast cells (PHT) before and after syncytialization. 77% of the transporters showed similar mRNA expression changes between BeWo and PHT after syncytialization. Selected transporters, however, were either lacking in BeWo or showed different trends after syncytialization. In conclusion, BeWo cells generally represent an apt model for transporter studies, but their suitability should be confirmed for each transporter by comparison with PHT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sampada Kallol
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Bern, Switzerland; Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | | | - Corneille Edgar Ontsouka
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Bern, Switzerland; Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Switzerland
| | - Christiane Albrecht
- Institute of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, University of Bern, Switzerland; Swiss National Centre of Competence in Research, NCCR TransCure, University of Bern, Switzerland.
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Ibrahim MI, Ramy AR, Abdelhamid AS, Ellaithy MI, Omar A, Harara RM, Fathy H, Abolouz AS. Maternal serum amyloid A level as a novel marker of primary unexplained recurrent early pregnancy loss. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2017; 136:298-303. [PMID: 28099717 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.12076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [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] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2016] [Revised: 10/25/2016] [Accepted: 12/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess maternal serum amyloid A (SAA) levels among women with primary unexplained recurrent early pregnancy loss (REPL). METHODS A prospective study was conducted among women with missed spontaneous abortion in the first trimester at Ain Shams University Maternity Hospital, Cairo, Egypt, between January 21 and December 25, 2014. Women with at least two consecutive primary unexplained REPLs and no previous live births were enrolled. A control group was formed of women with no history of REPL who had at least one previous uneventful pregnancy with no adverse outcomes. Serum samples were collected to measure SAA levels. The main outcome was the association between SAA and primary unexplained REPL. RESULTS Each group contained 96 participants. Median SAA level was significantly higher among women with REPL (50.0 μg/mL, interquartile range 26.0-69.0) than among women in the control group (11.6 μg/mL, interquartile range 6.2-15.5; P<0.001). The SAA level was an independent indicator of primary unexplained REPL, after adjusting for maternal age and gestational age (odds ratio 1.12, 95% confidence interval 1.06-1.19; P<0.001). CONCLUSION Elevated SAA levels found among women with primary unexplained REPL could represent a novel biomarker for this complication of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moustafa I Ibrahim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ain Shams University Faculty of Medicine, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ahmed R Ramy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ain Shams University Faculty of Medicine, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ahmed S Abdelhamid
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ain Shams University Faculty of Medicine, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed I Ellaithy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ain Shams University Faculty of Medicine, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Amna Omar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ain Shams University Faculty of Medicine, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Rany M Harara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ain Shams University Faculty of Medicine, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Hayam Fathy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ain Shams University Faculty of Medicine, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ashraf S Abolouz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, October 6th University Faculty of Medicine, Cairo, Egypt
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Chang WL, Wang H, Cui L, Peng NN, Fan X, Xue LQ, Yang Q. PLAC1 is involved in human trophoblast syncytialization. Reprod Biol 2016; 16:218-224. [PMID: 27692364 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2016.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [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: 12/03/2015] [Revised: 06/30/2016] [Accepted: 07/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Placenta specific protein 1 (PLAC1) is thought to be important for murine and human placentation because of its abundant expression in placenta; however, the trophoblast subtypes that express PLAC1 at the fetomaternal interface and the major role of PLAC1 in placentation are still unclear. This study investigated the expression pattern of PLAC1 at the human fetomaternal interface and its involvement in trophoblast syncytialization. Localization of PLAC1 at the fetomaternal interface was studied using in situ hybridization (ISH) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) assays. Real time RT-PCR and Western Blot were employed to exhibit the expression pattern of PLAC1 during human spontaneous syncytialization of term primary cytotrophoblast cells (CTBs). Spontaneous syncytialization of a primary term CTBs model transfected with siRNA specific to PLAC1 was used to investigate the role of PLAC1 during human trophoblast syncytialization. The results showed that PLAC1 was mainly expressed in the human villous syncytiotrophoblast (STB) layer throughout gestation, and the expression level of PLAC1 was significantly elevated during human trophoblast syncytialization. Down-regulation of PLAC1 via specific PLAC1 siRNA transfection attenuated spontaneous syncytialization of primary term CTBs (p<0.05) as indicated by cell fusion index and the expression patterns of the corresponding markers. These data demonstrate the facilitative role of PLAC1 in normal human trophoblast syncytialization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Lin Chang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China; State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; Guangdong and Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Male Reproductive Medicine and Genetics, Institute of Urology, Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen PKUHKUST Medical Center, Shenzhen, China
| | - Huiying Wang
- Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China; Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Lina Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China; Graduate School of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Nan-Ni Peng
- Reproductive Medical Center of Luohu Hospital Shenzhen, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Xiujun Fan
- Laboratory for Reproductive Health, Shenzhen Institutes of Advanced Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China
| | - Li-Qun Xue
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China.
| | - Qing Yang
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Hunan Agricultural University, Changsha, China.
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Costa MA, Fonseca BM, Marques F, Teixeira NA, Correia-da-Silva G. The psychoactive compound of Cannabis sativa, Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) inhibits the human trophoblast cell turnover. Toxicology 2015; 334:94-103. [PMID: 26070387 DOI: 10.1016/j.tox.2015.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2015] [Accepted: 06/07/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The noxious effects of cannabis consumption for fertility and pregnancy outcome are recognized for years. Its consumption during gestation is associated with alterations in foetal growth, low birth weight and preterm labor. The main psychoactive molecule of cannabis, Δ(9)-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) impairs the production of reproductive hormones and is also able to cross the placenta barrier. However, its effect on the main placental cells, the trophoblasts, are unknown. Actually, the role of THC in cell survival/death of primary human cytotrophoblasts (CTs) and syncytiotrophoblasts (STs) and in the syncytialization process remains to be explored. Here, we show that THC has a dual effect, enhancing MTT metabolism at low concentrations, whereas higher doses decreased cell viability, on both trophoblast phenotypes, though the effects on STs were more evident. THC also diminished the generation of oxidative and nitrative stress and the oxidized form of glutathione, whereas the reduced form of this tripeptide was increased, suggesting that THC prevents ST cell death due to an antioxidant effect. Moreover, this compound enhanced the mitochondrial function of STs, as observed by the increased MTT metabolism and intracellular ATP levels. These effects were independent of cannabinoid receptors activation. Besides, THC impaired CT differentiation into STs, since it decreased the expression of biochemical and morphological biomarkers of syncytialization, through a cannabinoid receptor-dependent mechanism. Together, these results suggest that THC interferes with trophoblast turnover, preventing trophoblast cell death and differentiation, and contribute to disclose the cellular mechanisms that lead to pregnancy complications in women that consume cannabis-derived drugs during gestation.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Costa
- Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Laboratório de Bioquímica, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - B M Fonseca
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE Laboratório de Bioquímica, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia , Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - F Marques
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE Laboratório de Bioquímica, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia , Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - N A Teixeira
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE Laboratório de Bioquímica, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia , Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - G Correia-da-Silva
- UCIBIO, REQUIMTE Laboratório de Bioquímica, Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Faculdade de Farmácia , Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.
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Costa MA, Keating E, Fonseca BM, Teixeira NA, Correia-da-Silva G. 2-Arachidonoylglycerol impairs human cytotrophoblast cells syncytialization: influence of endocannabinoid signalling in placental development. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2015; 399:386-94. [PMID: 25199616 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2014.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2014] [Revised: 09/04/2014] [Accepted: 09/04/2014] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
A balanced cytotrophoblast cell turnover is crucial for placental development and anomalies in this process associated with gestational diseases. The endocannabinoid system (ECS) has emerged as a new player in several biological processes. However, its influence during placental development is still unknown. We report here the expression of the endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) main metabolic enzymes in human cytotrophoblasts and syncytiotrophoblast. We also showed that 2-AG induced a decrease in placental alkaline phosphatase activity, human chorionic gonadotropin secretion and Leptin mRNA levels. Moreover, 2-AG reduced glial cell missing 1 and syncytin-2 transcription and the number of nuclei in syncytium. These effects were mediated by cannabinoid receptors and may result from 2-AG inhibition of the cAMP/PKA signalling pathway. Our data suggest that 2-AG may interfere with the biochemical and morphological differentiation of human cytotrophoblasts, through a CB receptor-dependent mechanism, shedding light on a role for the ECS in placental development.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Costa
- Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Laboratório de Bioquímica, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal; Instituto de Biologia Celular e Molecular da Universidade do Porto (IBMC), Porto, Portugal
| | - E Keating
- Departmento de Bioquímica U38FCT, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal; Center for Biotechnology and Fine Chemistry, School of Biotechnology, Portuguese Catholic University, Porto, Portugal
| | - B M Fonseca
- Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Laboratório de Bioquímica, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal; Instituto de Biologia Celular e Molecular da Universidade do Porto (IBMC), Porto, Portugal
| | - N A Teixeira
- Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Laboratório de Bioquímica, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal; Instituto de Biologia Celular e Molecular da Universidade do Porto (IBMC), Porto, Portugal
| | - G Correia-da-Silva
- Departamento de Ciências Biológicas, Laboratório de Bioquímica, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal; Instituto de Biologia Celular e Molecular da Universidade do Porto (IBMC), Porto, Portugal.
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Costa MA, Fonseca BM, Keating E, Teixeira NA, Correia-da-Silva G. Transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 is expressed in human cytotrophoblasts: induction of cell apoptosis and impairment of syncytialization. Int J Biochem Cell Biol 2014; 57:177-85. [PMID: 25450464 DOI: 10.1016/j.biocel.2014.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2014] [Revised: 09/25/2014] [Accepted: 10/06/2014] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The normal development of placenta relies essentially on a balanced proliferation, differentiation and apoptosis of cytotrophoblasts. These processes are tightly regulated by several hormones, cytokines, lipids and other molecules and anomalies in these events are associated with gestational complications. The cation channel transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) is expressed in several organs and tissues and it participates in cellular events like nociception, inflammation and cell death. However, the expression and importance of this receptor in human placenta still remains unknown. In this work, we found that TRPV1 is expressed in human cytotrophoblasts and syncytiotrophoblasts. Furthermore, the TRPV1 agonists capsaicin and anandamide decreased cytotrophoblast viability and induced morphological alterations, such as chromatin condensation and fragmentation, which suggest the occurrence of apoptosis. Also, both TRPV1 agonists induced a loss of mitochondrial membrane potential and an increase of caspase 3/7 activity and production of reactive species of oxygen and nitrogen. Furthermore, capsaicin (10 μM) impaired the spontaneous in vitro differentiation of cytotrophoblasts into syncytiotrophoblasts by triggering TRPV1, as observed by the decrease in placental alkaline phosphatase activity and in human chorionic gonadotropin secretion. On the other hand, anandamide decreased placental alkaline phosphatase activity via a TRPV1-independent mechanism but did not influence the secretion of human chorionic gonadotropin. In conclusion, we showed that TRPV1 is expressed in human cytotrophoblasts and syncytiotrophoblasts and also reported the involvement of this receptor in cytotrophoblast apoptosis and differentiation.
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Zhou Z, Wang R, Yang X, Lu XY, Zhang Q, Wang YL, Wang H, Zhu C, Lin HY, Wang H. The cAMP-responsive element binding protein (CREB) transcription factor regulates furin expression during human trophoblast syncytialization. Placenta 2014; 35:907-18. [PMID: 25175744 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2014.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [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: 03/27/2014] [Revised: 07/28/2014] [Accepted: 07/30/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The multinucleated syncytiotrophoblast is formed and maintained by cytotrophoblast cell fusion and serves multiple functions to ensure a successful pregnancy. We have previously reported that the proprotein convertase furin is required for trophoblast syncytialization by processing type 1 insulin-like growth factor receptor (IGF1R). METHODS Utilizing trophoblast cell fusion models including induced fusion of choriocarcinoma BeWo cells and spontaneous fusion of primary cultured term cytotrophoblast cells, the expression of furin was evaluated by quantitative real-time PCR, Western blotting and immunofluorescence. The key transcription factor regulating the FUR gene promoter and critical responsive elements were identified by luciferase reporter assays, truncated mutants analysis, site-directed mutagenesis and ChIP. RESULTS We demonstrated that the levels of FUR mRNA were significantly stimulated by cAMP/PKA signaling pathway during spontaneous fusion of cytotrophoblast cells and forskolin-induced fusion of BeWo cells. cAMP-responsive element binding protein (CREB) was proven to be the key transcription factor which regulated the FUR P1 promoter during forskolin-induced BeWo cell fusion, and two critical cAMP-responsive elements (CREs) in the P1 promoter were further identified. Finally, we showed that CREB mediated endogenous furin activation and that CREB siRNA attenuated forskolin-induced furin expression and cell fusion in BeWo cells. DISCUSSION This provides the first evidence of the upstream regulator of furin during trophoblast cell fusion. CONCLUSIONS The above results suggest that the FUR transcription is activated by CREB-dependent stimulation of the FUR P1 promoter during human trophoblast syncytialization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China; Graduate School of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100039, PR China
| | - R Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China; Graduate School of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100039, PR China
| | - X Yang
- Department of Human Reproductive Medicine, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing 100006, PR China
| | - X-Y Lu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China; Graduate School of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100039, PR China
| | - Q Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China; Laboratory Animal Center, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing 400016, PR China
| | - Y-L Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China
| | - H Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China
| | - C Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China
| | - H-Y Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China.
| | - H Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China.
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