Introduction: Human decidual stromal cells (DSCs) play a key role in maternal-fetal interactions. Precursors of DSCs (preDSCs) localize around vessels in both the endometrium and decidua. Previous studies suggested a relationship between preDSCs and pericytes because these cells share a perivascular location, alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SM actin) expression and the ability to contract under the effects of cytokines.
Methods: To further study this relationship, we established 15 human preDSC lines and 3 preDSC clones. The preDSC lines and clones were tested by flow cytometry with a panel of 29 monoclonal antibodies, 14 of which are pericyte markers. The expression of angiogenic factors was determined by RT-PCR, chemotactic activity was studied with the migration assay, and cell contractility was evaluated with the collagen cell contraction assay. Confocal microscopy was used to study decidual sections.
Results: Under the effect of progesterone and cAMP, these lines decidualized in vitro: the cells became rounder and secreted prolactin, a marker of physiological DSC differentiation (decidualization). The antigen phenotype of these preDSC lines and clones was fully compatible with that reported for pericytes. PreDSC lines displayed pericyte characteristics: they expressed angiogenic factors and showed chemotactic and cytokine-induced contractile activity. Confocal microscopic examination of decidual sections revealed the expression of antigens detected in preDSC lines: α-SM actin colocalized with CD146, CD140b, MFG-E8, nestin, and STRO-1 (all of which are pericyte markers) in cells located around the vessels, a distinctive location of preDSCs and pericytes.
Discussion: Taken together, our results show that preDSCs are pericyte-like cells.
Keywords: Cytokines; Decidua; Decidual stromal cells; Natural killer cells; Pericytes.
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