FoxM1 Directs STAT3 Expression Essential for Human Endometrial Stromal Decidualization

Sci Rep. 2015 Sep 3:5:13735. doi: 10.1038/srep13735.

Abstract

Human endometrium decidualization, which involves endometrial stromal proliferation and differentiation, is a prerequisite for embryo implantation, thus successful pregnancy. The Forkhead Box M1 (FoxM1), previously known as HNF-3, HFH-11, MPP2, Win, and Trident, is a transcriptional factor that plays crucial roles in cell proliferation and cell cycle progression. However, the molecular mechanism of FoxM1 during human endometrial decidualization remains unexplored. In this study, we first found FoxM1 is dynamically expressed in human endometrium during menstrual cycle. Employing a human endometrial stromal cell (HESC) line, we then demonstrated that FoxM1 inhibition downregulates cyclin B1 expression, delaying G2/M phase transition during HESC proliferation. Additionally, loss of FoxM1 expression blocks the differentiation of HESCs in response to estrogen, progesterone, and dbcAMP. Applying chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) technique and luciferase assay, we further approved that FoxM1 can transcriptionally active signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), ensuring normal HESC differentiation. Besides enriching our knowledge on molecular basis underlying stromal decidualization, these findings help to shed light on the potential molecular causes for the endometrial disorders in humans.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Cell Differentiation / physiology
  • Cell Proliferation / physiology
  • Embryo Implantation / physiology*
  • Endometrium / cytology*
  • Endometrium / physiology*
  • Female
  • Forkhead Box Protein M1
  • Forkhead Transcription Factors / metabolism*
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Menstrual Cycle / physiology
  • STAT3 Transcription Factor / metabolism*
  • Stromal Cells / cytology
  • Stromal Cells / physiology

Substances

  • FOXM1 protein, human
  • Forkhead Box Protein M1
  • Forkhead Transcription Factors
  • STAT3 Transcription Factor
  • STAT3 protein, human