The TEA domain transcription factors TEAD1 and TEAD3 and WNT signaling determine HLA-G expression in human extravillous trophoblasts.

Abstract

Maternal-fetal immune tolerance guarantees a successful pregnancy throughout gestation. HLA-G, a nonclassical human leukocyte antigen (HLA) molecule exclusively expressed in extravillous trophoblasts (EVT), is a crucial factor in establishing maternal-fetal immune tolerance by interacting with inhibitory receptors on various maternal immune cells residing in the uterus. While trophoblast-specific cis-regulatory elements impacting <i>HLA-G</i> transcription have been described, the identity of trans-acting factors controlling <i>HLA-G</i> expression in EVT remains poorly understood. Utilizing a genome-wide CRISPR-Cas9 knockout screen, we find that the WNT signaling pathway negatively regulates <i>HLA-G</i> expression in EVT. In addition, we identified two trophoblast-specific transcription factors, TEAD1 and TEAD3, required for <i>HLA-G</i> transcription in EVT in a Yes-associated protein-independent manner. Altogether, we systematically elucidated essential genes and pathways underlying HLA-G expression in EVT, shedding light on the mechanisms of maternal-fetal tolerance and potentially providing insights into controlling HLA-G expression beyond EVT to protect allogeneic cells from immune rejection.