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Estrogen-related receptor expression in placenta throughout gestation
Jiro Fujimoto1, Yumiko Nakagawa, Hiroshi Toyoki
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gifu University School of Medicine, 1-1 Yanagido, Gifu City 501-1194, Japan. jf@cc.gifu-u.ac.jp
Summary
Estrogen receptors (ERs) and estrogen-related receptors (ERRs) show dynamic changes during pregnancy. Their opposing expression patterns suggest a competitive interaction influencing placental development and gene transcription.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Endocrinology
- Molecular genetics
Background:
- Estrogen receptors (ERs) and estrogen-related receptors (ERRs) play crucial roles in reproductive processes.
- Understanding their expression dynamics during pregnancy is vital for comprehending placental development and function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the temporal expression patterns of ER alpha, beta, and ERR alpha, beta, gamma mRNA during human pregnancy.
- To explore the potential competitive interactions between ERs and ERRs mediated by shared cofactors.
Main Methods:
- Quantitative analysis of ER and ERR mRNA levels was performed across different stages of pregnancy.
- Expression profiles were correlated with gestational timing, from the first trimester to term delivery.
Main Results:
- Estrogen receptor (ER) alpha and beta mRNA levels peaked in the second trimester and declined towards term.
- Estrogen-related receptor (ERR) alpha, beta, and gamma mRNA levels showed a progressive increase throughout pregnancy, particularly after the second trimester.
- ERRs demonstrated ligand-independent transcriptional activity, binding to steroid receptor coactivators.
Conclusions:
- The observed inverse relationship between ER and ERR expression suggests a competitive interaction for common cofactors.
- Up-regulation of ERRs may be linked to placental growth, potentially compensating for decreased ER activity in the later stages of pregnancy due to high estrogen concentrations.