Sex-specific epigenetic gene activation profiles are differentially modulated in human placentas affected by intrauterine growth restriction
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Abstract
BACKGROUND: The purpose of this study was to investigate the sex specific expression of histone protein modifications responsible for rapid gene expression in IUGR placentas.
PATIENTS AND METHODS: We screened for fetal sex-specific expression of the histone proteins H3K4me3 and H3K9ac in 23 IUGR and 40 control placentas via immunohistochemistry. The trophoblast-like cell line BeWo was used in order to analyze a potential effect of stimulation with prednisolone on H3K4me3 and H3K9ac in vitro. Calculating regression models with additional adjustment for potential confounders were used.
RESULTS: A significantly decreased level of H3K4me3 was detectable in female syncytiotrophoblasts, whereas H3K9ac was reduced predominantly in male extravillous throphoblast (EVT). No association to the gestational age existed.
CONCLUSION: Our data showed a reduced expression of the histone proteins H3K4me3 (female) and H3K9ac (male) in IUGR, furthermore elevated cortisol levels may lead to a sex-specific down-regulation of histone proteins in IUGR placentas.
Bibliographical data
Original language | English |
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ISSN | 0165-0378 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 06.2020 |
PubMed | 32289580 |
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