Hypoxic endometrial epithelial cell-derived microRNAs effectively regulate the regenerative properties of mesenchymal stromal cells.

Abstract

Endometrial thickness plays an important role in successful embryo implantation and normal pregnancy achievement. However, a thin endometrial layer (≤ 7 mm) may have a significant effect on microenvironment tolerance, which is further related to successful embryo implantation or conception, either naturally or after assisted reproductive technology. Moreover, this microenvironment tolerance shift induces hypoxic damage to endometrial epithelial cells (EECs), which results in altered signaling biomolecule secretion, including exosome content. In the context of endometrium regeneration, mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) and umbilical cord (UC)-derived stem cells have been applied in clinical trials with promising results. It has been recently shown that exosomes derived from hypoxic damaged EECs directly contribute to the increased migratory and regenerative abilities of UCs and MSCs. Specifically, microRNAs in exosomes secreted by the hypoxic damaged EECs, such as miR-214-5p and miR-21-5p, play a crucial role in the migratory capacity and differentiation ability of MSCs to EECs mediated through the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway. Taking into consideration the above information, UC-MSCs may be considered as a modern intervention for endometrial regeneration.