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Atiq F, O'Donnell JS. Novel functions for von Willebrand factor. Blood 2024; 144:1247-1256. [PMID: 38728426 DOI: 10.1182/blood.2023021915] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT For many years, it has been known that von Willebrand factor (VWF) interacts with factor VIII, collagen, and platelets. In addition, the key roles played by VWF in regulating normal hemostasis have been well defined. However, accumulating recent evidence has shown that VWF can interact with a diverse array of other novel ligands. To date, over 60 different binding partners have been described, with interactions mapped to specific VWF domains in some cases. Although the biological significance of these VWF-binding interactions has not been fully elucidated, recent studies have identified some of these novel ligands as regulators of various aspects of VWF biology, including biosynthesis, proteolysis, and clearance. Conversely, VWF binding has been shown to directly affect the functional properties for some of its ligands. In keeping with those observations, exciting new roles for VWF in regulating a series of nonhemostatic biological functions have also emerged. These include inflammation, wound healing, angiogenesis, and bone metabolism. Finally, recent evidence supports the hypothesis that the nonhemostatic functions of VWF directly contribute to pathogenic mechanisms in a variety of diverse diseases including sepsis, malaria, sickle cell disease, and liver disease. In this manuscript, we review the accumulating data regarding novel ligand interactions for VWF and critically assess how these interactions may affect cellular biology. In addition, we consider the evidence that nonhemostatic VWF functions may contribute to the pathogenesis of human diseases beyond thrombosis and bleeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ferdows Atiq
- Irish Centre for Vascular Biology, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
| | - James S O'Donnell
- Irish Centre for Vascular Biology, School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland
- National Coagulation Centre, St James's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
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2
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Deryabin PI, Borodkina AV. The Role of the Endometrium in Implantation: A Modern View. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:9746. [PMID: 39273693 PMCID: PMC11395593 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25179746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2024] [Revised: 09/06/2024] [Accepted: 09/08/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
According to the current data, the endometrium acts as a "sensor" of embryo quality, which promotes the implantation of euploid embryos and prevents the implantation and/or subsequent development of genetically abnormal embryos. The present review addresses the nature of the "sensory function" of the endometrium and highlights the necessity for assessing its functional status. The first section examines the evolutionary origin of the "sensory" ability of the endometrium as a consequence of spontaneous decidualization that occurred in placental animals. The second section details the mechanisms for implementing this function at the cellular level. In particular, the recent findings of the appearance of different cell subpopulations during decidualization are described, and their role in implantation is discussed. The pathological consequences of an imbalance among these subpopulations are also discussed. Finally, the third section summarizes information on currently available clinical tools to assess endometrial functional status. The advantages and disadvantages of the approaches are emphasized, and possible options for developing more advanced technologies for assessing the "sensory" function of the endometrium are proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavel I Deryabin
- Mechanisms of Cellular Senescence Laboratory, Institute of Cytology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Tikhoretsky Ave. 4, Saint-Petersburg 194064, Russia
| | - Aleksandra V Borodkina
- Mechanisms of Cellular Senescence Laboratory, Institute of Cytology of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Tikhoretsky Ave. 4, Saint-Petersburg 194064, Russia
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3
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Tang Y, Frisendahl C, Piltonen TT, Arffman RK, Lalitkumar PG, Gemzell-Danielsson K. Human Endometrial Pericytes: A Comprehensive Overview of Their Physiological Functions and Implications in Uterine Disorders. Cells 2024; 13:1510. [PMID: 39273080 PMCID: PMC11394273 DOI: 10.3390/cells13171510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2024] [Revised: 09/02/2024] [Accepted: 09/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Pericytes are versatile cells integral to the blood vessel walls of the microcirculation, where they exhibit specific stem cell traits. They are essential in modulating blood flow, ensuring vascular permeability, and maintaining homeostasis and are involved in the tissue repair process. The human endometrium is a unique and complex tissue that serves as a natural scar-free healing model with its cyclical repair and regeneration process every month. The regulation of pericytes has gained increasing attention due to their involvement in various physiological and pathological processes. However, endometrial pericytes are less well studied compared to the pericytes in other organs. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of endometrial pericytes, with a focus on elucidating their physiological function and potential implications in uterine disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiqun Tang
- WHO Collaborating Centre, Division of Neonatology, Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Health, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, SE 17176 Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Research Unit of Clinical Medicine, Medical Research Centre, Oulu University Hospital, University of Oulu, 90220 Oulu, Finland
| | - Caroline Frisendahl
- WHO Collaborating Centre, Division of Neonatology, Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Health, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, SE 17176 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Terhi T Piltonen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Research Unit of Clinical Medicine, Medical Research Centre, Oulu University Hospital, University of Oulu, 90220 Oulu, Finland
| | - Riikka K Arffman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Research Unit of Clinical Medicine, Medical Research Centre, Oulu University Hospital, University of Oulu, 90220 Oulu, Finland
| | - Parameswaran Grace Lalitkumar
- WHO Collaborating Centre, Division of Neonatology, Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Health, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, SE 17176 Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kristina Gemzell-Danielsson
- WHO Collaborating Centre, Division of Neonatology, Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Health, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinska Institutet, SE 17176 Stockholm, Sweden
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4
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Hird EJ, Slanina-Davies A, Lewis G, Hamer M, Roiser JP. From movement to motivation: a proposed framework to understand the antidepressant effect of exercise. Transl Psychiatry 2024; 14:273. [PMID: 38961071 PMCID: PMC11222551 DOI: 10.1038/s41398-024-02922-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/10/2024] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Depression is the leading cause of disability worldwide, exerting a profound negative impact on quality of life in those who experience it. Depression is associated with disruptions to several closely related neural and cognitive processes, including dopamine transmission, fronto-striatal brain activity and connectivity, reward processing and motivation. Physical activity, especially aerobic exercise, reduces depressive symptoms, but the mechanisms driving its antidepressant effects are poorly understood. Here we propose a novel hypothesis for understanding the antidepressant effects of exercise, centred on motivation, across different levels of explanation. There is robust evidence that aerobic exercise decreases systemic inflammation. Inflammation is known to reduce dopamine transmission, which in turn is strongly implicated in effort-based decision making for reward. Drawing on a broad range of research in humans and animals, we propose that by reducing inflammation and boosting dopamine transmission, with consequent effects on effort-based decision making for reward, exercise initially specifically improves 'interest-activity' symptoms of depression-namely anhedonia, fatigue and subjective cognitive impairment - by increasing propensity to exert effort. Extending this framework to the topic of cognitive control, we explain how cognitive impairment in depression may also be conceptualised through an effort-based decision-making framework, which may help to explain the impact of exercise on cognitive impairment. Understanding the mechanisms underlying the antidepressant effects of exercise could inform the development of novel intervention strategies, in particular personalised interventions and boost social prescribing.
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Affiliation(s)
- E J Hird
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London, London, UK.
| | - A Slanina-Davies
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London, London, UK
| | - G Lewis
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - M Hamer
- Institute of Sport, Exercise and Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - J P Roiser
- Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience, University College London, London, UK
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5
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Flasbeck V, Dersch N, Engler H, Schedlowski M, Brüne M. Acute experimental inflammation in healthy women attenuates empathy for psychological pain. Brain Behav Immun 2024; 119:1-5. [PMID: 38548183 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2024.03.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Administration of low-dose lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to healthy humans is a translational approach to analyze the effects of acute systemic inflammation and sickness behavior. Although studies documented that LPS-induced inflammation can alter social behavior, its impact on empathy remains poorly understood. In this double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 52 healthy female volunteers received an intravenous injection of either LPS (0.4 ng/kg body weight) or placebo and completed the Social Interaction Empathy Task (SIET) two hours after injection. Physiological responses (blood pressure, heart rate, body temperature, cytokines, cortisol) were analyzed along with sickness symptoms and mood before and after LPS or placebo administration. LPS application led to significant increases in plasma cytokines and sickness symptoms as well as low mood. Moreover, volunteers receiving LPS showed significantly less empathy for other's psychological pain than those who received placebo. Furthermore, LPS-injected volunteers with more severe sickness symptoms displayed higher pain ratings in the first-person perspective. Thus, low-grade inflammation reduces empathy for other's psychological pain which might reflect an adaptive strategy to save energy by not responding empathetically when sick oneself.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera Flasbeck
- LWL University Hospital Bochum, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Preventive Medicine, Division of Social Neuropsychiatry and Evolutionary Medicine, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, NRW, Germany.
| | - Nele Dersch
- LWL University Hospital Bochum, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Preventive Medicine, Division of Social Neuropsychiatry and Evolutionary Medicine, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, NRW, Germany
| | - Harald Engler
- Institute of Medical Psychology and Behavioral Immunobiology, Center for Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, NRW, Germany
| | - Manfred Schedlowski
- Institute of Medical Psychology and Behavioral Immunobiology, Center for Translational Neuro- and Behavioral Sciences, University Hospital Essen, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, NRW, Germany; Osher Center for Integrative Health, Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Martin Brüne
- LWL University Hospital Bochum, Department of Psychiatry, Psychotherapy and Preventive Medicine, Division of Social Neuropsychiatry and Evolutionary Medicine, Ruhr University Bochum, Bochum, NRW, Germany
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Lawrence LA, Vidal P, Varughese RS, Tiger Li ZR, Chen TD, Tuske SC, Jimenez AR, Lowen AC, Shafer WM, Swaims-Kohlmeier A. Murine modeling of menstruation identifies immune correlates of protection during Chlamydia muridarum challenge. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.05.21.595090. [PMID: 38826233 PMCID: PMC11142139 DOI: 10.1101/2024.05.21.595090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
The menstrual cycle influences the risk of acquiring sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including Chlamydia trachomatis (C. trachomatis), although the underlying immune contributions are poorly defined. A mouse model simulating the immune-mediated process of menstruation could provide valuable insights into tissue-specific determinants of protection against chlamydial infection within the cervicovaginal and uterine mucosae comprising the female reproductive tract (FRT). Here, we used the pseudopregnancy approach in naïve C57Bl/6 mice and performed vaginal challenge with Chlamydia muridarum (C. muridarum) at decidualization, endometrial tissue remodeling, or uterine repair. This strategy identified that the time frame comprising uterine repair correlated with robust infection and greater bacterial burden as compared with mice on hormonal contraception, while challenges during endometrial remodeling were least likely to result in a productive infection. By comparing the infection site at early time points following chlamydial challenge, we found that a greater abundance of innate effector populations and proinflammatory signaling, including IFNγ correlated with protection. FRT immune profiling in uninfected mice over pseudopregnancy or in pig-tailed macaques over the menstrual cycle identified NK cell infiltration into the cervicovaginal tissues and lumen over the course of endometrial remodeling. Notably, NK cell depletion over this time frame reversed protection, with mice now productively infected with C. muridarum following challenge. This study shows that the pseudopregnancy murine menstruation model recapitulates immune changes in the FRT as a result of endometrial remodeling and identifies NK cell localization at the FRT as essential for immune protection against primary C. muridarum infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurel A Lawrence
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Paola Vidal
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Richa S Varughese
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Zheng-Rong Tiger Li
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Thien Duy Chen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Steven C Tuske
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Ariana R Jimenez
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Anice C Lowen
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - William M Shafer
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
- Laboratories of Bacterial Pathogenesis, Atlanta Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Decatur, Georgia
| | - Alison Swaims-Kohlmeier
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
- Department of GYNOB, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
- Division of HIV Prevention Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Atlanta, Georgia (previous affiliation)
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7
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Munro C, Grover SR. Ending the neglect of menstrual pain in adolescents is the key to improving outcomes for people with persistent pelvic pain. Med J Aust 2024; 220:459-460. [PMID: 38717023 DOI: 10.5694/mja2.52290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sonia R Grover
- Murdoch Children's Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC
- The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC
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8
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Li T, Li RHW, Ng EHY, Yeung WSB, Chiu PCN, Chan RWS. Interleukin 6 at menstruation promotes the proliferation and self-renewal of endometrial mesenchymal stromal/stem cells through the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway. Front Immunol 2024; 15:1378863. [PMID: 38765018 PMCID: PMC11099287 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2024.1378863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 04/15/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Background At menstruation, the functional layer of the human endometrium sheds off due to the trigger of the release of inflammatory factors, including interleukin 6 (IL-6), as a result of a sharp decline in progesterone levels, leading to tissue breakdown and bleeding. The endometrial mesenchymal stem-like cells (CD140b+CD146+ eMSC) located in the basalis are responsible for the cyclical regeneration of the endometrium after menstruation. Endometrial cells from the menstruation phase have been proven to secrete a higher amount of IL-6 and further enhance the self-renewal and clonogenic activity of eMSC. However, the IL-6-responsive mechanism remains unknown. Thus, we hypothesized that IL-6 secreted from niche cells during menstruation regulates the proliferation and self-renewal of eMSC through the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway. Methods In this study, the content of IL-6 across the menstrual phases was first evaluated. Coexpression of stem cell markers (CD140b and CD146) with interleukin 6 receptor (IL-6R) was confirmed by immunofluorescent staining. In vitro functional assays were conducted to investigate the effect of IL-6 on the cell activities of eMSC, and the therapeutic role of these IL-6- and WNT5A-pretreated eMSC on the repair of injured endometrium was observed using an established mouse model. Results The endometrial cells secrete a high amount of IL-6 under hypoxic conditions, which mimic the physiological microenvironment in the menstruation phase. Also, the expression of IL-6 receptors was confirmed in our eMSC, indicating their capacity to respond to IL-6 in the microenvironment. Exogenous IL-6 can significantly enhance the self-renewal, proliferation, and migrating capacity of eMSC. Activation of the WNT/β-catenin signaling pathway was observed upon IL-6 treatment, while suppression of the WNT/β-catenin signaling impaired the stimulatory role of IL-6 on eMSC activities. IL-6- and WNT5A-pretreated eMSC showed better performance during the regeneration of the injured mouse endometrium. Conclusion We demonstrate that the high level of IL-6 produced by endometrial cells at menstruation can induce the stem cells in the human endometrium to proliferate and migrate through the activation of the WNT/β-catenin pathway. Treatment of eMSC with IL-6 and WNT5A might enhance their therapeutic potential in the regeneration of injured endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianqi Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Centre for Translational Stem Cell Biology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Raymond H. W. Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Ernest H. Y. Ng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - William S. B. Yeung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Centre for Translational Stem Cell Biology, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Philip C. N. Chiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
| | - Rachel W. S. Chan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Clinical Medicine, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, The University of Hong Kong Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen, China
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9
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González-Mena Á, Leirós-Rodríguez R, Hernandez-Lucas P. Treatment of Women With Primary Dysmenorrhea With Manual Therapy and Electrotherapy Techniques: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Phys Ther 2024; 104:pzae019. [PMID: 38366860 DOI: 10.1093/ptj/pzae019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/18/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of electrotherapy and manual therapy for the treatment of women with primary dysmenorrhea. METHODS Systematic searches were conducted in Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, CINAHL, and MEDLINE. The articles must have been published in the last 10 years, had a sample exclusively of women with primary dysmenorrhea, had a randomized controlled trial design, and used interventions that included some form of manual therapy and/or electrotherapy techniques. Two reviewers independently screened articles for eligibility and extracted data. Difference in mean differences and their 95% CIs were calculated as the between-group difference in means divided by the pooled standard deviation. The I2 statistic was used to determine the degree of heterogeneity. RESULTS Twelve selected studies evaluated interventions, with 5 evaluating electrotherapy techniques and 7 evaluating manual therapy techniques. All studies analyzed identified improvements in pain intensity and meta-analysis confirmed their strong effect. CONCLUSIONS Manual therapy and electrotherapy are effective for the treatment of women with primary dysmenorrhea. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation combined with thermotherapy and effleurage massage stands out for its effects on the intensity and duration of pain with the application of a few sessions and their long-term effects. IMPACT Manual therapy techniques and electrotherapy methods reduce the pain intensity of women with primary dysmenorrhea. Quality of life and degree of anxiety improved significantly with manual therapy interventions. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation combined with thermotherapy and effleurage massage are the interventions with which positive effects were achieved with fewer sessions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Raquel Leirós-Rodríguez
- SALBIS Research Group, Nursing and Physical Therapy Department, University of Leon, Ponferrada, Spain
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10
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Wang Y, Chen J, Zhang Z, Ding X, Gan J, Guo Y, Liang W, Wang Y, Deng Y, Sun A. Exploration of new models for primary dysmenorrhea treatment: low-power visible-light-activated photodynamic therapy and oral contraceptives. Front Med (Lausanne) 2024; 11:1388045. [PMID: 38751981 PMCID: PMC11094340 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2024.1388045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Primary dysmenorrhea (PD) is one of the most common reasons that affect the life quality of women during childbearing age. This research aims to explore the efficacy and curative effect characteristics of oral contraceptives and low-power visible-light-activated photodynamic therapy (PDT). Besides investigating the possible mechanism of PDT, we expected to find a treatment model with better efficacy and fewer side effects. Method It was a multicenter, randomized, parallel-controlled study. Eligible participants were randomly assigned to three groups: placebo group, oral contraceptive (Marvelon) group, and the PDT group. They were treated continuously for three menstrual cycles and followed up for two cycles after treatment. The scores of the visual analog scale (VAS) and the concentration of pain-related small molecules in blood before and after treatment were recorded in each group, which can evaluate the therapeutic characteristics of different treatments. Result Both Marvelon and PDT were effective. The effect of Marvelon appears quickly which can significantly relieve symptoms at the beginning, while PDT shows a relatively slow role. There was no significant difference in the final efficacy two cycles after treatment. The therapeutic effect was achieved by reducing the concentrations of prostaglandin 2 (PGE2) and endothelin (ET) in the blood. Conclusion Marvelon and PDT are effective methods for the treatment of PD. The long-term efficacy of the two is similar, while the therapeutic characteristics and the side effects are different. Patients can choose the suitable way according to their individual needs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Aijun Sun
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetric and Gynecologic Diseases Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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11
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Martínez-Ibarra A, Cerbón M, Martínez-Razo LD, Morales-Pacheco M, Torre-Villalvazo I, Kawa S, Rodríguez-Dorantes M. Impact of DEHP exposure on female reproductive health: Insights into uterine effects. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2024; 107:104391. [PMID: 38367918 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2024.104391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
Several endocrine disrupting compounds released from plastics, including polyfluoroalkyl substances, bisphenols, flame retardants, phthalates and others, are of great concern to human health due to their high toxicity. This review discusses the effects of di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), the most common member of the phthalate family, on female reproduction. In vitro and in vivo studies link DEHP exposure to impaired hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian s (HPO) axis function, alteration of steroid-hormone levels and dysregulation of their receptors, and changes in uterine morphophysiology. In addition, high urinary DEPH levels have been associated with several reproductive disorders in women, including endometriosis, fibromyoma, fetal growth restriction and pregnancy loss. These data suggest that DEHP may be involved in the pathophysiology of various female reproductive diseases. Therefore, exposure to these compounds should be considered a concern in clinician surveillance practices for women at reproductive age and should be regulated to protect their health and that of their progeny.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marco Cerbón
- Facultad de Química, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico.
| | | | - Miguel Morales-Pacheco
- Laboratorio de Oncogenómica, Instituto Nacional de Medicina Genómica, Ciudad de México 14610, Mexico
| | - Iván Torre-Villalvazo
- Departamento de Fisiología de la Nutrición, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Simón Kawa
- Dirección General del Hospital General Dr. Manuel Gea González, Ciudad de México, Mexico.
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12
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Saad-Naguib MH, Kenfack Y, Sherman LS, Chafitz OB, Morelli SS. Impaired receptivity of thin endometrium: therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stem cells. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 14:1268990. [PMID: 38344687 PMCID: PMC10854221 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1268990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
The endometrium is a resilient and highly dynamic tissue, undergoing cyclic renewal in preparation for embryo implantation. Cyclic endometrial regeneration depends on the intact function of several cell types, including parenchymal, endothelial, and immune cells, as well as adult stem cells that can arise from endometrial or extrauterine sources. The ability of the endometrium to undergo rapid, repeated regeneration without scarring is unique to this tissue. However, if this tissue renewal process is disrupted or dysfunctional, women may present clinically with infertility due to endometrial scarring or persistent atrophic/thin endometrium. Such disorders are rate-limiting in the treatment of female infertility and in the success of in vitro fertilization because of a dearth of treatment options specifically targeting the endometrium. A growing number of studies have explored the potential of adult stem cells, including mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), to treat women with disorders of endometrial regeneration. MSCs are multipotent adult stem cells with capacity to differentiate into cells such as adipocytes, chondrocytes, and osteoblasts. In addition to their differentiation capacity, MSCs migrate toward injured sites where they secrete bioactive factors (e.g. cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, proteins and extracellular vesicles) to aid in tissue repair. These factors modulate biological processes critical for tissue regeneration, such as angiogenesis, cell migration and immunomodulation. The MSC secretome has therefore attracted significant attention for its therapeutic potential. In the uterus, studies utilizing rodent models and limited human trials have shown a potential benefit of MSCs and the MSC secretome in treatment of endometrial infertility. This review will explore the potential of MSCs to treat women with impaired endometrial receptivity due to a thin endometrium or endometrial scarring. We will provide context supporting leveraging MSCs for this purpose by including a review of mechanisms by which the MSC secretome promotes regeneration and repair of nonreproductive tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael H. Saad-Naguib
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Health, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Yannick Kenfack
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Lauren S. Sherman
- Department of Medicine, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, United States
| | - Olivia B. Chafitz
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ, United States
| | - Sara S. Morelli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Health, Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences, Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, United States
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13
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Vercellini P, Bandini V, Viganò P, Di Stefano G, Merli CEM, Somigliana E. Proposal for targeted, neo-evolutionary-oriented, secondary prevention of early-onset endometriosis and adenomyosis. Part I: pathogenic aspects. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:1-17. [PMID: 37951243 PMCID: PMC10876119 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The potential for repeated ovulation and menstruation is thought to have provided a Darwinian advantage during the Palaeolithic. Reproductive conditions remained relatively stable until the pre-industrial era, characterized by late menarche, very young age at first birth, multiple pregnancies, and prolonged periods of lactational amenorrhoea. For hundreds of thousands of years, menstruators experienced few ovulatory cycles, even though they were genetically adapted to ovulate and menstruate every month. In the post-industrial era, the age at menarche gradually declined, the age at first birth progressively increased, and breastfeeding became optional and often of short duration. This created a mismatch between genetic adaptation and socio-environmental evolution, so that what was initially a probable reproductive advantage subsequently contributed to increased susceptibility to diseases associated with lifetime oestrogen exposure, such as ovarian, endometrial and breast cancer and, hypothetically, also those associated with the number of ovulatory menstruations, such as endometriosis and adenomyosis. The incidence of endometriosis shows a steep and progressive increase around the age of 25 years, but given the consistently reported delay in diagnosis, the actual incidence curve should be shifted to the left, supporting the possibility that the disease has its roots in adolescence. This raises the question of whether, from an evolutionary point of view, anovulation and amenorrhoea should not still be considered the physiological state, especially in the postmenarchal period. However, an increase in the frequency of endometriosis in recent decades has not been demonstrated, although this deserves further epidemiological investigation. In addition, as endometriosis occurs in a minority of individuals exposed to retrograde menstruation, other important pathogenic factors should be scrutinised. Research should be resumed to explore in more detail the transtubal reflux of not only blood, but also endometrial cells, and whether they are systematically present in the peritoneal fluid after menstruation. If repetitive ovulatory menstruation during the early reproductive years is shown to increase the risk of endometriosis and adenomyosis development and progression in susceptible individuals, hormonal interventions could be used as secondary prevention in symptomatic adolescents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paolo Vercellini
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Academic Centre for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Università degli Studi, Milano, Italy
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Veronica Bandini
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Academic Centre for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Università degli Studi, Milano, Italy
| | - Paola Viganò
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Academic Centre for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Università degli Studi, Milano, Italy
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | - Giorgia Di Stefano
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
| | | | - Edgardo Somigliana
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Community Health, Academic Centre for Research on Adenomyosis and Endometriosis, Università degli Studi, Milano, Italy
- Gynecology Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milano, Italy
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14
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McLagan B, Dexheimer J, Strock N, Goldstein S, Guzman S, Erceg D, Schroeder ET. The role of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation for menstrual pain relief: A randomized control trial. WOMEN'S HEALTH (LONDON, ENGLAND) 2024; 20:17455057241266455. [PMID: 39066557 PMCID: PMC11282568 DOI: 10.1177/17455057241266455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Abdominal pain due to menses (primary dysmenorrhea) is an extremely pervasive and debilitating symptom affecting up to 90% of menstruating individuals. OBJECTIVE The objective of this randomized control trial was to investigate the effect of a commercial transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation unit, Therabody PowerDot® (Therabody Inc., Los Angeles) on dysmenorrhea compared with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug use. DESIGN This was a randomized cross-over study. METHODS A total of 47 participants agreed to participate in the study, with 34 completing it. Participants completed treatments across three consecutive menstrual cycles in randomized order: single-unit transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (Uno), dual unit transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (Duo), and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug use (Control). Upon onset of dysmenorrhea, participants applied transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation to their abdomen for a minimum of 30 min. Control participants were instructed to take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs as needed. Surveys were used to record pain before and after treatment. We hypothesized that the PowerDot would decrease self-reported pain scores, and decrease non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug consumption during menses. RESULTS Participants experienced a statistically and clinically significant reduction in pain during the Control (-3.52 ± 1.9), Uno (-2.10 ± 1.6), and Duo (-2.19 ± 1.7) cycles (p < 0.001). The doses of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs consumed during the Control cycle (3.5 ± 2.6), was significantly different as compared with that of Uno (1.5 ± 3.0), or Duo (1.1 ± 2.6) (p = 0.004). CONCLUSIONS Use of a commercial transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation unit results in significant decrease in pain. Although not as robust as the relief in pain induced by non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, the adverse events of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation are minimal in comparison. Therefore, transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation appears to be a viable alternative to pain relief from dysmenorrhea. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT05178589.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bailey McLagan
- Division of Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Shayna Goldstein
- Division of Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Stephanie Guzman
- Division of Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - David Erceg
- Division of Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - E Todd Schroeder
- Division of Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
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15
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Marquardt RM, Tran DN, Lessey BA, Rahman MS, Jeong JW. Epigenetic Dysregulation in Endometriosis: Implications for Pathophysiology and Therapeutics. Endocr Rev 2023; 44:1074-1095. [PMID: 37409951 PMCID: PMC10638603 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnad020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/05/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
Endometriosis is a prevalent gynecological condition associated with pelvic pain and infertility. Despite more than a century of research, the etiology of endometriosis still eludes scientific consensus. This lack of clarity has resulted in suboptimal prevention, diagnosis, and treatment options. Evidence of genetic contributors to endometriosis is interesting but limited; however, significant progress has been made in recent years in identifying an epigenetic role in the pathogenesis of endometriosis through clinical studies, in vitro cell culture experiments, and in vivo animal models. The predominant findings include endometriosis-related differential expression of DNA methyltransferases and demethylases, histone deacetylases, methyltransferases, and demethylases, and regulators of chromatin architecture. There is also an emerging role for miRNAs in controlling epigenetic regulators in the endometrium and endometriosis. Changes in these epigenetic regulators result in differential chromatin organization and DNA methylation, with consequences for gene expression independent of a genetic sequence. Epigenetically altered expression of genes related to steroid hormone production and signaling, immune regulation, and endometrial cell identity and function have all been identified and appear to play into the pathophysiological mechanisms of endometriosis and resulting infertility. This review summarizes and critically discusses early seminal findings, the ever-growing recent evidence of epigenetic contributions to the pathophysiology of endometriosis, and implications for proposed epigenetically targeted therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ryan M Marquardt
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Dinh Nam Tran
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Bruce A Lessey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wake Forest Baptist Health, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | - Md Saidur Rahman
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
| | - Jae-Wook Jeong
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, USA
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16
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Tabatabaei F, Tahernia H, Ghaedi A, Bazrgar A, Khanzadeh S. Diagnostic significance of neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio in endometriosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:576. [PMID: 37936116 PMCID: PMC10631181 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02692-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to compile existing evidence on the significance of the NLR in predicting endometriosis in order to aid clinical decision-making and outcomes. METHODS We searched ProQuest, Web of Science, and PubMed for related studies published before January 2, 2023. Standardized mean difference (SMD) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was reported for each outcome. Because a significant level of heterogeneity was found, we used the random-effects model to calculate pooled effects. We used Newcastle-Ottawa Scale (NOS) for quality assessment. RESULTS Overall, 18 article with were included in the analysis. A random-effect model revealed that patients with endometriosis had elevated levels of NLR compared to healthy controls (SMD = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.33 to 1.25, P < 0.001). Patients with endometriosis had elevated levels of NLR compared to those with other benign tumors (SMD = 0.85, 95% CI = 0.17 to 1.53, P = 0.014). In addition, NLR level of patients with stage III and IV endometriosis was not different from that of patients with stage I and II endometrioma (SMD = 0.30, 95% CI = -0.14 to 0.74, P = 0.18). However, NLR level was not different between endometriosis patients with and without peritoneal lesions (SMD = -0.12, 95% CI = -0.34to 0.10, P = 0.28), between patients with and without endometrioma (SMD = 0.20, 95% CI = -0.15 to 0.55, P = 0.26) and between endometriosis patients with and without deep lesions (SMD = 0.04, 95% CI = -0.20 to 0.28, P = 0.72). The pooled sensitivity of NLR was 0.67 (95% CI = 0.60-0.73), and the pooled specificity was 0.68 (95% CI, 0.62-0.73). CONCLUSIONS NLR might be utilized in clinics as a possible predictor to help clinicians diagnose endometriosis in affected women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fatemeh Tabatabaei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Gynaecologic Laparoscopic Surgeries, Al-Zahra Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Arshin Ghaedi
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Trauma Research Center, Shahid Rajaee (Emtiaz) Trauma Hospital, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Aida Bazrgar
- Student Research Committee, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Shokoufeh Khanzadeh
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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17
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Mao C, Liu X, Guo SW. Reduced endometrial expression of histone deacetylase 3 in women with adenomyosis who complained of heavy menstrual bleeding. Reprod Biomed Online 2023; 47:103288. [PMID: 37690341 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.103288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Revised: 07/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION What role, if any, does histone deacetylase 3 (HDAC3) play in adenomyosis-associated heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB)? DESIGN Seventy-two women with adenomyosis-associated HMB were recruited. Of these, 37 women reported moderate/heavy bleeding (MHB) and the remaining 35 women reported excessive bleeding (EXB). The stiffness of adenomyotic lesions and neighbouring endometrial-myometrial interface (EMI) was measured by transvaginal elastosonography, and full-thickness uterine tissue columns were processed for Masson trichrome staining and immunohistochemistry analyses. The protein expression levels of HDAC3 in endometrial cells cultured on substrates of different stiffnesses, and the protein concentrations of nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) p65 subunit with HDAC3 suppression were evaluated. Mouse experiments were performed to assess the effect of adenomyosis on Hdac3 expression, endometrial repair and bleeding, and to evaluate the effect of HDAC3 inhibition on endometrial repair. RESULTS Compared with controls, the endometrial staining of HDAC3 was significantly lower in women with adenomyosis-associated HMB, concomitant with a greater extent of fibrosis. The stiffness of lesions and neighbouring EMI was significantly higher in the EXB group compared with the MHB group, as was the extent of fibrosis in lesions, their neighboring EMI and endometrium. Expression of HDAC3 was reduced significantly when endometrial epithelial cells were cultured in stiff substrates. Suppression of HDAC3 abrogated the activation and signalling of NF-κB. Mice with induced adenomyosis exhibited reduced Hdac3 staining and elevated fibrosis in endometrium, concomitant with disrupted endometrial repair and more bleeding. Hdac3 inhibition resulted in botched inflammation and increased bleeding. CONCLUSIONS Lesional fibrosis results in reduced endometrial HDAC3 expression and subsequent disruption in NF-κB signalling and inflammation, leading to adenomyosis-associated HMB.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenyu Mao
- Department of General Gynaecology, Shanghai Obstetrics and Gynaecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xishi Liu
- Department of General Gynaecology, Shanghai Obstetrics and Gynaecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Sun-Wei Guo
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Fudan University, Shanghai, China; Research Institute, Shanghai Obstetrics and Gynaecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
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18
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Shiko G, Paulmann MJ, Feistel F, Ntefidou M, Hermann-Ene V, Vetter W, Kost B, Kunert G, Zedler JAZ, Reichelt M, Oelmüller R, Klein J. Occurrence and conversion of progestogens and androgens are conserved in land plants. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2023; 240:318-337. [PMID: 37559351 DOI: 10.1111/nph.19163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023]
Abstract
Progestogens and androgens have been found in many plants, but little is known about their biosynthesis and the evolution of steroidogenesis in these organisms. Here, we show that the occurrence and biosynthesis of progestogens and androgens are conserved across the viridiplantae lineage. An UHPLC-ESI-MS/MS method allowed high-throughput analysis of the occurrence and chemical conversion of progestogens and androgens in 41 species across the green plant lineage. Dehydroepiandrosterone, testosterone, and 5α-dihydrotestosterone are plants' most abundant mammalian-like steroids. Progestogens are converted into 17α-hydroxyprogesterone and 5α-pregnane-3,20-dione. Androgens are converted into testosterone and 5α-dihydrotestosterone. 17,20-Lyases, essential for converting progestogens to androgens, seem to be most effective in monocot species. Our data suggest that the occurrence of progestogens and androgens is highly conserved in plants, and their biosynthesis might favor a route using the Δ4 pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glendis Shiko
- Department of Plant Physiology, Matthias-Schleiden-Institute for Genetics, Bioinformatics and Molecular Botany, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, 07743, Germany
| | - Max-Jonas Paulmann
- Department of Plant Physiology, Matthias-Schleiden-Institute for Genetics, Bioinformatics and Molecular Botany, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, 07743, Germany
| | - Felix Feistel
- Department for Biochemistry, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, 07743, Jena, Germany
| | - Maria Ntefidou
- Cell Biology, Department of Biology, University Erlangen-Nuremberg, 91058, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Vanessa Hermann-Ene
- Institute of Food Chemistry, University of Hohenheim, 70599, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Walter Vetter
- Institute of Food Chemistry, University of Hohenheim, 70599, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Benedikt Kost
- Cell Biology, Department of Biology, University Erlangen-Nuremberg, 91058, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Grit Kunert
- Department for Biochemistry, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, 07743, Jena, Germany
| | - Julie A Z Zedler
- Synthetic Biology of Photosynthetic Organisms, Matthias Schleiden Institute for Genetics, Bioinformatics and Molecular Botany, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, 07743, Jena, Germany
| | - Michael Reichelt
- Department for Biochemistry, Max Planck Institute for Chemical Ecology, 07743, Jena, Germany
| | - Ralf Oelmüller
- Department of Plant Physiology, Matthias-Schleiden-Institute for Genetics, Bioinformatics and Molecular Botany, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, 07743, Germany
| | - Jan Klein
- Department of Plant Physiology, Matthias-Schleiden-Institute for Genetics, Bioinformatics and Molecular Botany, Friedrich Schiller University Jena, Jena, 07743, Germany
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19
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Wang S, Chen X, Guo S, Zhou F, Zhang X, Lu C, Yang X, Wang Q, He B, Wang J, Wang H, Xu X. CXCR4, regulated by HIF1A, promotes endometrial breakdown via CD45 + leukocyte recruitment in a mouse model of menstruation. Reprod Biol 2023; 23:100785. [PMID: 37392490 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2023.100785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023]
Abstract
Menstruation is a specific physiological phenomenon in female humans that is regulated by complex molecular mechanisms. However, the molecular network involved in menstruation remains incompletely understood. Previous studies have suggested that C-X-C chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) is involved; however, how CXCR4 participates in endometrial breakdown remains unclear, as do its regulatory mechanisms. This study aimed to clarify the role of CXCR4 in endometrial breakdown and its regulation by hypoxia-inducible factor-1 alpha (HIF1A). We first confirmed that CXCR4 and HIF1A protein levels were significantly increased during the menstrual phase compared with the late secretory phase using immunohistochemistry. In our mouse model of menstruation, real-time PCR, western blotting, and immunohistochemistry showed that CXCR4 mRNA and protein expression levels gradually increased from 0 to 24 h after progesterone withdrawal during endometrial breakdown. HIF1A mRNA and HIF1A nuclear protein levels significantly increased and peaked at 12 h after progesterone withdrawal. Endometrial breakdown was significantly suppressed by the CXCR4 inhibitor AMD3100 and the HIF1A inhibitor 2-methoxyestradiol in our mouse model, and HIF1A inhibition also suppressed CXCR4 mRNA and protein expression. In vitro studies using human decidual stromal cells showed that CXCR4 and HIF1A mRNA expression levels were increased by progesterone withdrawal and that HIF1A knockdown significantly suppressed the elevation in CXCR4 mRNA expression. CD45+ leukocyte recruitment during endometrial breakdown was suppressed by both AMD3100 and 2-methoxyestradiol in our mouse model. Taken together, our preliminary findings suggest that endometrial CXCR4 expression is regulated by HIF1A during menstruation and may promote endometrial breakdown, potentially via leukocyte recruitment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shufang Wang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan Province 453003, People's Republic of China
| | - Xihua Chen
- Reproductive Physiology Laboratory, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, People's Republic of China
| | - Shige Guo
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan Province 453003, People's Republic of China; Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, People's Republic of China
| | - Fang Zhou
- Male Clinical Laboratory, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Zhang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan Province 453003, People's Republic of China; Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, People's Republic of China
| | - Cong Lu
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan Province 453003, People's Republic of China; Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuqing Yang
- Department of Cell Biology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563099, People's Republic of China
| | - Qianxing Wang
- Department of Cell Biology, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi 563099, People's Republic of China
| | - Bin He
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan Province 453003, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiedong Wang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan Province 453003, People's Republic of China
| | - Hanbi Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Clinical Research Center for Obstetric & Gynecologic Diseases, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Science and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xiangbo Xu
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, Henan Province 453003, People's Republic of China.
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20
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Arai K, Kubota A, Iwasaki T, Sonoda A, Sakane J. S100A8 and S100A9 are associated with endometrial shedding during menstruation. Med Mol Morphol 2023; 56:194-205. [PMID: 37085626 DOI: 10.1007/s00795-023-00355-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/23/2023]
Abstract
Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their major source, endometrial stromal cells (ESCs), play important roles in menstruation. However, other mechanisms in endometrial shedding may be unexplored. This study focused on four proteins: S100A8 and S100A9 (alarmins) are binding partners and induce MMPs, MMP-3 cycle-dependently plays a key role in the proteolytic cascade, and CD147, which has S100A9 as its ligand, induces MMPs. Immunostaining for these proteins was performed on 118 resected specimens. The percentage and location of each positive reaction in ESCs were measured and compared using Image J. The influence of leukocytes on S100A8 or S100A9 immunopositivity was also examined. From the premenstrual phase, S100A8 and MMP-3 began to have overlapping expressions in ESCs of the superficial layer, and ESC detachment was found within these sites. S100A9 was expressed from the late secretory phase and CD147 already from earlier. Later, the expression sites of S100A9 and CD147 included those of S100A8. Before menstruation, S100A8 or S100A9 expression was not affected by leukocytes. These results suggest that the local formation of S100A8/S100A9 complex, which occurs specifically in ESCs upon progesterone withdrawal, induces the local expression of MMP-3 and serves as a switch to the lysis phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazumori Arai
- Department of Pathology, Shizuoka General Hospital, 4-27-1 Kitaando, Aoi-ku, Shizuoka, 420-0881, Japan.
| | - Aki Kubota
- Department of Pathology, Shizuoka General Hospital, 4-27-1 Kitaando, Aoi-ku, Shizuoka, 420-0881, Japan
| | - Tomohiro Iwasaki
- Department of Pathology, Shizuoka General Hospital, 4-27-1 Kitaando, Aoi-ku, Shizuoka, 420-0881, Japan
| | - Akihiro Sonoda
- Department of Clinical Research, Shizuoka General Hospital, 4-27-1 Kitaando, Aoi-ku, Shizuoka, 420-0881, Japan
| | - Junichi Sakane
- Department of Pathology, Shizuoka General Hospital, 4-27-1 Kitaando, Aoi-ku, Shizuoka, 420-0881, Japan
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21
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Costa-Fujishima M, Yazdanpanah A, Horne S, Lamont A, Lopez P, Farr Zuend C, Birse K, Taverner M, Greenslade R, Abou M, Noel-Romas L, Abrenica B, Ajibola O, Ikeogu N, Su RC, McKinnon LR, Pymar H, Poliquin V, Berard AR, Burgener AD, Murooka TT. Nonoptimal bacteria species induce neutrophil-driven inflammation and barrier disruption in the female genital tract. Mucosal Immunol 2023; 16:341-356. [PMID: 37121385 DOI: 10.1016/j.mucimm.2023.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 04/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Neutrophil recruitment and activation within the female genital tract are often associated with tissue inflammation, loss of vaginal epithelial barrier integrity, and increased risk for sexually transmitted infections, such as HIV-1. However, the direct role of neutrophils on vaginal epithelial barrier function during genital inflammation in vivo remains unclear. Using complementary proteome and immunological analyses, we show high neutrophil influx into the lower female genital tract in response to physiological surges in progesterone, stimulating distinct stromal, immunological, and metabolic signaling pathways. However, despite the release of extracellular matrix-modifying proteases and inflammatory mediators, neutrophils contributed little to physiological mucosal remodeling events such as epithelial shedding or re-epithelialization during transition from diestrus to estrus phase. In contrast, the presence of bacterial vaginosis-associated bacteria resulted in a rapid and sustained neutrophil recruitment, resulting in vaginal epithelial barrier leakage and decreased cell-cell junction protein expression in vivo. Thus, neutrophils are important mucosal sentinels that rapidly respond to various biological cues within the female genital tract, dictating the magnitude and duration of the ensuing inflammatory response at steady state and during disease processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Costa-Fujishima
- University of Manitoba, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Immunology, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Atta Yazdanpanah
- University of Manitoba, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Immunology, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Samantha Horne
- Center for Global Health and Diseases, Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, USA; University of Manitoba, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Alana Lamont
- University of Manitoba, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Winnipeg, Canada; National HIV and Retrovirology Labs, JC Wilt Infectious Disease Research Centre, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Paul Lopez
- University of Manitoba, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Immunology, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Christina Farr Zuend
- Center for Global Health and Diseases, Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, USA
| | - Kenzie Birse
- Center for Global Health and Diseases, Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, USA; University of Manitoba, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Morgan Taverner
- University of Manitoba, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Riley Greenslade
- University of Manitoba, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Immunology, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Max Abou
- National HIV and Retrovirology Labs, JC Wilt Infectious Disease Research Centre, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Laura Noel-Romas
- Center for Global Health and Diseases, Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, USA; University of Manitoba, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Bernard Abrenica
- National HIV and Retrovirology Labs, JC Wilt Infectious Disease Research Centre, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Oluwaseun Ajibola
- University of Manitoba, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Immunology, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Nnamdi Ikeogu
- University of Manitoba, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Immunology, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Ruey-Chyi Su
- University of Manitoba, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Winnipeg, Canada; National HIV and Retrovirology Labs, JC Wilt Infectious Disease Research Centre, Public Health Agency of Canada, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Lyle R McKinnon
- University of Manitoba, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Winnipeg, Canada; Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA), Durban, South Africa; Department of Medical Microbiology and Immunology, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Helen Pymar
- University of Manitoba, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Vanessa Poliquin
- University of Manitoba, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Alicia R Berard
- Center for Global Health and Diseases, Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, USA; University of Manitoba, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Winnipeg, Canada
| | - Adam D Burgener
- Center for Global Health and Diseases, Department of Pathology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, USA; University of Manitoba, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Winnipeg, Canada; Unit of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine Solna, Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Thomas T Murooka
- University of Manitoba, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Immunology, Winnipeg, Canada; University of Manitoba, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, Winnipeg, Canada.
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22
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Abstract
Embryo implantation in humans is interstitial, meaning the entire conceptus embeds in the endometrium before the placental trophoblast invades beyond the uterine mucosa into the underlying inner myometrium. Once implanted, embryo survival pivots on the transformation of the endometrium into an anti-inflammatory placental bed, termed decidua, under homeostatic control of uterine natural killer cells. Here, we examine the evolutionary context of embryo implantation and elaborate on uterine remodelling before and after conception in humans. We also discuss the interactions between the embryo and the decidualising endometrium that regulate interstitial implantation and determine embryo fitness. Together, this Review highlights the precarious but adaptable nature of the implantation process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne Muter
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV2 2DX, UK
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, University Hospitals Coventry & Warwickshire NHS Trust, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV2 2DX, UK
| | - Vincent J. Lynch
- Department of Biological Sciences, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14260-4610, USA
| | - Rajiv C. McCoy
- Department of Biology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
| | - Jan J. Brosens
- Division of Biomedical Sciences, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV2 2DX, UK
- Tommy's National Centre for Miscarriage Research, University Hospitals Coventry & Warwickshire NHS Trust, Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, CV2 2DX, UK
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23
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The effects of Covid-19 mRNA vaccine on adolescence gynecological well-being. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2023; 307:1625-1631. [PMID: 36871101 PMCID: PMC9985514 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-023-06981-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
Abstract
KEY MESSAGE Menstruation of adolescent girls might be influenced by Covid-19 mRNA vaccine, however, the ovarian reserve estimated by AMH is not compromised. BACKGROUND Recent studies have suggested that the acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) mRNA vaccine causes menstrual abnormalities which led to concerns regarding its influence on the reproductive system. This study aims to investigate the influence of the SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine on gynecologic well-being and future fertility of adolescent girls. METHODS This is a prospective cohort study conducted at a university affiliated medical center between June and July 2021. Adolescent girls aged 12-16 years who were vaccinated by two Pfizer-BioNTech Covid-19 vaccines (21 days apart) were included in the study. All participants completed a computerized questionnaire regarding their general medical and gynecological background at recruitment and 3 months later. Blood samples were collected for AMH levels before and 3 months following the first mRNA vaccine RESULTS: The study group consisted of 35 girls, and of them, follow-up was completed by questionnaire and AMH sampling in 35 (90%) and 22 (56%) girls, respectively. Among the 22/35 girls who reported regular menstruation before vaccination, seven (31.8%) experienced irregularities post-vaccination. Four of the eight pre-menarche girls included in the study reported on menarche on follow-up. Median AMH levels were 3.09 (IQR 1.96-4.82) μg/L and 2.96 (2.21-4.73) μg/L at baseline and after 3 months, respectively (p = 0.07). After controlling for age, BMI and presentation of side effects, no association was demonstrated to the change in AMH levels (AMH2-AMH1). CONCLUSIONS Although menstruation of adolescent girls might be influenced by Covid-19 mRNA vaccine, it seems that the ovarian reserve estimated by AMH is not compromised. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION National Institutes of Health (NCT04748172).
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24
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Mao C, Liu X, Guo SW. Decreased Glycolysis at Menstruation is Associated with Increased Menstrual Blood Loss. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:928-951. [PMID: 36042151 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-01066-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB) is common and severely affects the quality of life of the afflicted women. While HMB is known to be caused by impaired endometrial repair after menstruation, its more proximate cause remains unknown. To investigate whether glycolysis plays any role in endometrial repair and thus HMB, we conducted two mouse experiments using a mouse model of simulated menstruation. We performed immunohistochemistry analyses of proteins involved in glycolysis as well as pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines in endometrium from decidualized and non-decidualized uterine horns. We also assessed the extent of endometrial repair by staging endometrial morphology from decidualization to full repair using histological scoring of uterine sections and quantitated the amount of menstrual blood loss (MBL). In addition, we employed the scratch assay and the CCK-8 assay to evaluate the effect of glycolysis suppression on cellular migration and proliferation, respectively. Finally, we performed an immunohistochemistry analysis of HK2 in endometrium from women with adenomyosis who experienced either moderate/heavy or excessive MBL. We found that endometrial repair coincided with increased glycolysis in endometrium and glycolysis suppression delayed endometrial repair, resulting in increased MBL. Additionally, glycolysis suppression significantly inhibited the proliferative and migratory capability of endometrial cells, and disrupted normal endometrial repair even when hypoxia was maintained. Women with adenomyosis who experienced excessive MBL had significantly lower HK2 staining than those who experienced moderate/heavy MBL. Thus, our study highlights the importance of glycolysis as well as inflammation in optimal endometrial repair, and provides clues for the cause of HMB in women with adenomyosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenyu Mao
- Department of Gynecology, Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Xishi Liu
- Department of Gynecology, Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Sun-Wei Guo
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Fudan University, Shanghai, China. .,Research Institute, Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China.
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25
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Kobayashi H. Endometrial Inflammation and Impaired Spontaneous Decidualization: Insights into the Pathogenesis of Adenomyosis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3762. [PMID: 36834456 PMCID: PMC9964052 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20043762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Adenomyosis is an estrogen-dependent gynecologic disease characterized by the myometrial invasion of the endometrial tissue. This review summarized the current understanding and recent findings on the pathophysiology of adenomyosis, focusing on repeated menstruation, persistent inflammation, and impaired spontaneous decidualization. A literature search was performed in the PubMed and Google Scholar databases from inception to 30 April 2022. Thirty-one full-text articles met the eligibility criteria. Repeated episodes of physiological events (i.e., endometrial shedding, damage, proliferation, differentiation, repair, and regeneration) during the menstrual cycle are associated with inflammation, angiogenesis, and immune processes. The decidualization process in humans is driven by the rise in progesterone levels, independently of pregnancy (i.e., spontaneous decidualization). Adenomyotic cells produce angiogenic and fibrogenic factors with the downregulation of decidualization-associated molecules. This decidualization dysfunction and persistent inflammation are closely related to the pathogenesis of adenomyosis. Recently, it has been found that the reproductive tract microbiota composition and function in women with adenomyosis differ from those without. An increase in opportunistic pathogens and a decrease in beneficial commensals may promote impaired defense mechanisms against inflammation and predispose women to uncontrolled endometrial inflammation. However, currently, there is no direct evidence that adenomyosis is linked to pre-existing inflammation and impaired spontaneous decidualization. Overall, persistent inflammation, impaired spontaneous decidualization, and microbiota dysbiosis (i.e., an imbalance in the composition and function of endometrial microbiota) may be involved in the pathophysiology of adenomyosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiroshi Kobayashi
- Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Ms.Clinic MayOne, 871-1 Shijo-cho, Kashihara 634-0813, Japan; ; Tel.: +81-744-20-0028
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nara Medical University, 840 Shijo-cho, Kashihara 634-8522, Japan
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26
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The Abundance and Function of Neutrophils in the Endometriosis Systemic and Pelvic Microenvironment. Mediators Inflamm 2023; 2023:1481489. [PMID: 36762287 PMCID: PMC9904898 DOI: 10.1155/2023/1481489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2022] [Revised: 12/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/16/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Endometriosis is a common inflammatory illness in which endometrial tissue grows outside the uterine cavity. Immune dysfunction is now widely acknowledged as the primary cause of endometriosis. The immune cell population represented by neutrophils is thought to play an essential role in the etiology, pathophysiology, and associated clinical outcome. There is growing evidence that neutrophils have a role in chronic and aseptic inflammatory diseases, and endometriosis patients have increased levels of neutrophils in plasma, peritoneal fluid, and ectopic endometrium. Here, we sought to review the function of neutrophils in the pathogenesis of endometriosis, with an emphasis on the role of neutrophils in regulating endometrial angiogenesis and the local inflammatory microenvironment.
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27
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Naseri S, Rosenberg‐Hasson Y, Maecker HT, Avrutsky MI, Blumenthal PD. A cross-sectional study comparing the inflammatory profile of menstrual effluent vs. peripheral blood. Health Sci Rep 2023; 6:e1038. [PMID: 36620506 PMCID: PMC9813904 DOI: 10.1002/hsr2.1038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims Cytokine profiles of peripheral blood and other bodily fluids provide diagnostic indicators for assessing inflammatory processes. Menstrual effluent may provide a noninvasive source of biological material for monitoring cytokine levels in blood and in endometrial tissues. This pilot study investigated the potential of measuring cytokines in menstrual effluent, and compared the cytokine profiles of menstrual versus peripheral blood. Methods Seven healthy donors (aged ≥18 and ≤45 years) collected menstrual effluent on day 2 of menses. Matched peripheral blood samples were collected by venous blood draw on the same day. Levels of 62 cytokines were measured in all samples by 62-plex Luminex assay. Results Peripheral blood and menstrual effluent cytokine profiles were tenuously correlated (r 2 = 0.26, p < 0.0001), with higher levels detected in menstrual effluent for 48/62 cytokines. Thirty five cytokines were significantly elevated in menstrual effluent compared to peripheral blood samples (IL-8, CCL2, CCL4, LIF, IL-1RA, IL-6, IL-1β, HGF, CCL3, FGF-2, TNF-α, VEGF-A, IL-1α, CXCL1, IL-9, IL-10, EGF, CXCL5, CSF3, EOTAXIN, TGF-α, TRAIL, CXCL10, VEGF-D, IL-12P40, CXCL9, IL-18 RESISTIN, IL-22, IL-21, CSF1, IFN-γ, IL-17A, CXCL12, IL-12p70). Two cytokines (LEPTIN, CSF2) were expressed at significantly lower levels in menstrual effluent compared to peripheral blood. Linear regression of individual cytokines found low predictive power (linear regression p > 0.05) for 53/62 cytokines in menstrual effluent versus peripheral blood. Levels of TGF-β (r 2 = 0.87, p = 0.002) and CCL7 (r 2 = 0.63, p = 0.033) were significantly positively correlated between matched menstrual and peripheral blood samples. Conclusion In this group of study participants, the cytokine profile of menstrual effluent was quantitatively distinct from peripheral blood, and also characterized by higher levels of inflammatory signaling. This pattern of comparative menstrual blood cytokine profiles points to a need for further studies to evaluate the relationship between peripheral and menstrual blood cytokines in broader populations including both healthy and diseased states.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Naseri
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyStanford UniversityStanfordCaliforniaUSA
- Qurasense Inc.Menlo ParkCaliforniaUSA
| | - Yael Rosenberg‐Hasson
- Institute for Immunity, Transplantation, and Infection, Stanford University School of MedicineStanfordCaliforniaUSA
| | - Holden T. Maecker
- Institute for Immunity, Transplantation, and Infection, Stanford University School of MedicineStanfordCaliforniaUSA
| | | | - Paul D. Blumenthal
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyStanford UniversityStanfordCaliforniaUSA
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28
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Firat A, Ercan A, Mordeniz C, Verit Atmaca FF. Predictive value of hemogram parameters in malignant transformation of the endometrium in patients with different risk factors. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0279224. [PMID: 36626395 PMCID: PMC9831310 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0279224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate whether the pretreatment hemogram parameters and their ratios can be used in predicting the endometrial transformation in patients with abnormal uterine bleeding. MATERIAL AND METHODS Records of all patients who underwent an endometrial histopathological evaluation between 2011 and 2021 were investigated. Hemogram, neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR) were analyzed. Chi square and Mann Whitney U tests were used for analysis. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULTS 427 patients were included, of whom 117 were presented with endometrial hyperplasia without atypia (27.4%; mean age, 42±9.7; Group II), 70 with atypia (16.3%; mean age, 53.4±9; Group III), 102 with early endometrial cancer (EC) (23.8%; mean age, 63±7.8; Group IV) and 38 with advanced disease (8.8%; mean age, 63.3±10.5; Group V). Patients without pathology constituted the control group (23.4%; mean age, 42.2±9.5; Group I). Risk factors for atypia and carcinoma were determined as age, postmenopausal state, obesity, diabetes, and increased estrogen exposure (each, p<0.05). There was no significant difference in NLR and PLR (p>0.05). However, hemoglobin and hematocrit levels were higher in Groups IV and V (13.9 vs 13.1 mg/dL, and 39.1 vs 38.8%, respectively; p<0.01). Platelet value was significantly higher in Groups III to V (282x109/L, 283x109/L and 295x109/L; p<0.05, p<0.05 and p<0.01, respectively). CONCLUSIONS Our findings support the impact of inflammation on malign transformation from normal endometrial mucosa to atypia and carcinoma. NLR and PLR values showed no statistical difference. Instead, thrombocytosis may have a predictive role in EC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aysun Firat
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Istanbul Education and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences Turkey, Istanbul, Turkey
- * E-mail:
| | - Aysegul Ercan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Istanbul Education and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences Turkey, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Cengiz Mordeniz
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Tekirdag Namik Kemal University, Tekirdag, Turkey
| | - Fatma Ferda Verit Atmaca
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Istanbul Education and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences Turkey, Istanbul, Turkey
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29
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Kirkwood PM, Gibson DA, Shaw I, Dobie R, Kelepouri O, Henderson NC, Saunders PTK. Single-cell RNA sequencing and lineage tracing confirm mesenchyme to epithelial transformation (MET) contributes to repair of the endometrium at menstruation. eLife 2022; 11:e77663. [PMID: 36524724 PMCID: PMC9873258 DOI: 10.7554/elife.77663] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The human endometrium experiences repetitive cycles of tissue wounding characterised by piecemeal shedding of the surface epithelium and rapid restoration of tissue homeostasis. In this study, we used a mouse model of endometrial repair and three transgenic lines of mice to investigate whether epithelial cells that become incorporated into the newly formed luminal epithelium have their origins in one or more of the mesenchymal cell types present in the stromal compartment of the endometrium. Using scRNAseq, we identified a novel population of PDGFRb + mesenchymal stromal cells that developed a unique transcriptomic signature in response to endometrial breakdown/repair. These cells expressed genes usually considered specific to epithelial cells and in silico trajectory analysis suggested they were stromal fibroblasts in transition to becoming epithelial cells. To confirm our hypothesis we used a lineage tracing strategy to compare the fate of stromal fibroblasts (PDGFRa+) and stromal perivascular cells (NG2/CSPG4+). We demonstrated that stromal fibroblasts can undergo a mesenchyme to epithelial transformation and become incorporated into the re-epithelialised luminal surface of the repaired tissue. This study is the first to discover a novel population of wound-responsive, plastic endometrial stromal fibroblasts that contribute to the rapid restoration of an intact luminal epithelium during endometrial repair. These findings form a platform for comparisons both to endometrial pathologies which involve a fibrotic response (Asherman's syndrome, endometriosis) as well as other mucosal tissues which have a variable response to wounding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Phoebe M Kirkwood
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of EdinburghEdinburghUnited Kingdom
| | - Douglas A Gibson
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of EdinburghEdinburghUnited Kingdom
| | - Isaac Shaw
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of EdinburghEdinburghUnited Kingdom
| | - Ross Dobie
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of EdinburghEdinburghUnited Kingdom
| | - Olympia Kelepouri
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of EdinburghEdinburghUnited Kingdom
| | - Neil C Henderson
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of EdinburghEdinburghUnited Kingdom
- MRC Human Genetics Unit, Institute of Genetics and Molecular Medicine, University of EdinburghEdinburghUnited Kingdom
| | - Philippa TK Saunders
- Centre for Inflammation Research, University of EdinburghEdinburghUnited Kingdom
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30
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Aitken RJ, Bromfield EG, Gibb Z. OXIDATIVE STRESS AND REPRODUCTIVE FUNCTION: The impact of oxidative stress on reproduction: a focus on gametogenesis and fertilization. Reproduction 2022; 164:F79-F94. [PMID: 35929832 DOI: 10.1530/rep-22-0126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
In brief Many aspects of the reproductive process are impacted by oxidative stress. This article summarizes the chemical nature of reactive oxygen species and their role in both the physiological regulation of reproductive processes and the pathophysiology of infertility. Abstract This article lays out the fundamental principles of oxidative stress. It describes the nature of reactive oxygen species (ROS), the way in which these potentially toxic metabolites interact with cells and how they impact both cellular function and genetic integrity. The mechanisms by which ROS generation is enhanced to the point that the cells' antioxidant defence mechanisms are overwhelmed are also reviewed taking examples from both the male and female reproductive system, with a focus on gametogenesis and fertilization. The important role of external factors in exacerbating oxidative stress and impairing reproductive competence is also examined in terms of their ability to disrupt the physiological redox regulation of reproductive processes. Developing diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to cope with oxidative stress within the reproductive system will depend on the development of a deeper understanding of the nature, source, magnitude, and location of such stress in order to fashion personalized treatments that meet a given patient's clinical needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- R John Aitken
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering Science and Environment, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Elizabeth G Bromfield
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering Science and Environment, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Zamira Gibb
- Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Science, Discipline of Biological Sciences, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, College of Engineering Science and Environment, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, New South Wales, Australia.,Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, New South Wales, Australia
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31
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Moussaoui D, Elder CV, O’Connell MA, Mclean A, Grover SR, Pang KC. Pelvic pain in transmasculine adolescents receiving testosterone therapy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF TRANSGENDER HEALTH 2022; 25:10-18. [PMID: 38323021 PMCID: PMC9869722 DOI: 10.1080/26895269.2022.2147118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Background: Pelvic pain is a common complaint among individuals assigned female at birth. However, few studies have explored pelvic pain among transmasculine patients on gender-affirming testosterone treatment, and most of these were performed in adult populations. Aims: The aim of our study was to investigate the prevalence, risk factors, nature and treatment of pelvic pain among trans adolescents on testosterone. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed on all trans adolescents started on gender-affirming testosterone treatment at our institution between 2007 and 2020. Results: Among 158 trans adolescents who were started on testosterone therapy and followed-up for at least six months, 37 (23.4%) reported pelvic pain, with a median interval between testosterone initiation and reported onset of pain of 1.6 months (range 0.3-6.4). The prevalence of pelvic pain was higher in patients who were receiving menstrual suppression (n = 36, 26.3%) compared to those who were not (n = 1, 4.8%), giving a risk difference of 21.5% (95% CI 9.8% to 33.2%, p = 0.028). The most common descriptive terms were "cramps" (n = 17, 45.9%) and "similar to previous period pain" (n = 8, 21.6%). A range of different pharmacological strategies were employed, including paracetamol, NSAIDs, danazol, norethisterone, medroxyprogesterone, etonogestrel implant, intra-uterine device, goserelin and pelvic floor physiotherapy, with variable outcomes. Conclusion: In conclusion, we report here - in what is to our knowledge the first time - the prevalence rate of pelvic pain in trans adolescents on gender-affirming testosterone treatment, and observe that a quarter of them described pelvic pain. Limitations of our study include its retrospective nature, which is likely to be associated with under-reporting of pelvic pain, and the limited documentation of the nature and likely causes of this pain within the medical records. Prospective longitudinal studies to better understand the nature, etiology and optimal management of testosterone-associated pelvic pain are therefore warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dehlia Moussaoui
- Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Gynaecology, The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Charlotte V. Elder
- Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Gynaecology, The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michele A. O’Connell
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ashleigh Mclean
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sonia R. Grover
- Department of Paediatric and Adolescent Gynaecology, The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
| | - Ken C. Pang
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
- Department of Adolescent Medicine, The Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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32
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Hooker AB, de Leeuw RA, Emanuel MH, Mijatovic V, Brolmann HAM, Huirne JA. The link between intrauterine adhesions and impaired reproductive performance: a systematic review of the literature. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2022; 22:837. [PMID: 36376829 PMCID: PMC9664654 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-022-05164-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Intrauterine adhesions (IUAs) are one of the main reproductive system diseases in women worldwide. Fusion between the injured opposing walls leads to partial-to-complete obliteration of the cavity and/or cervical canal. The main clinical manifestations in case of IUAs are menstrual disturbances, cyclic pain and reproductive disorders. The reproductive outcomes of women with IUAs remain limited and inefficient compared to women without IUAs, even after adhesiolysis. An exact understanding of the underlying mechanisms and processes to explain the compromised reproductive performance and outcomes in case of IUAs are lacking. Methods A systematic literature review of MEDLINE-PubMed (1966 to January 2022) and EMBASE (1974 to January 2022) was performed following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Studies were included if they reported underlying causes, related mechanisms and processes to explain the association between IUAs and impaired reproductive performance, pregnancy and obstetric complications. Results After an extensive review of the literature, 58 articles were identified reporting underlying mechanisms to explain the association between IUAs and impaired fertility. Intrauterine scarring influences the process of fertilization, reproductive performance and ultimately reproductive outcome. IUAs can disturb the cervico-utero-tubal sperm transport and result in an avascular and unresponsive endometrium with decreased receptivity and thickness. Abnormal decidualization and abnormal trophoblastic infiltration leads to placental attachment disorders. Moreover, the risk for premature delivery, intrauterine fetal growth restriction and fetal anomalies is increased in case of IUAs. Conclusion The impact of IUAs on reproductive performance, even after adhesiolysis, is becoming more apparent. The postulated mechanisms to explain the association are related to sperm transport, embryo implantation and placentation. Prevention, by preserving the basal layer of the endometrium is essential. Effective and evidence-based strategies for the prevention of endometrial injury and formation of IUAs, are urgently needed. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12884-022-05164-2.
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33
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Okunaka M, Kano D, Uesawa Y. Nuclear Receptor and Stress Response Pathways Associated with Antineoplastic Agent-Induced Diarrhea. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:12407. [PMID: 36293277 PMCID: PMC9604027 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 10/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In severe cases, antineoplastic agent-induced diarrhea may be life-threatening; therefore, it is necessary to determine the mechanism of toxicity and identify the optimal management. The mechanism of antineoplastic agent-induced diarrhea is still unclear but is often considered to be multifactorial. The aim of this study was to determine the molecular initiating event (MIE), which is the initial interaction between molecules and biomolecules or biosystems, and to evaluate the MIE specific to antineoplastic agents that induce diarrhea. We detected diarrhea-inducing drug signals based on adjusted odds ratios using the Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System. We then used the quantitative structure-activity relationship platform of Toxicity Predictor to identify potential MIEs that are specific to diarrhea-inducing antineoplastic agents. We found that progesterone receptor antagonists were potential MIEs associated with diarrhea. The findings of this study may help improve the prediction and management of antineoplastic agent-induced diarrhea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mashiro Okunaka
- Department of Medical Molecular Informatics, Meiji Pharmaceutical University, Kiyose 204-8588, Japan
- Department of Pharmacy, National Cancer Center Hospital East, Kashiwa 277-8577, Japan
| | - Daisuke Kano
- Department of Pharmacy, National Cancer Center Hospital East, Kashiwa 277-8577, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Uesawa
- Department of Medical Molecular Informatics, Meiji Pharmaceutical University, Kiyose 204-8588, Japan
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Silva EL, Walker DI, Coates Fuentes Z, Pinto-Pacheco B, Metz CN, Gregersen PK, Mahalingaiah S. Untargeted metabolomics reveals that multiple reproductive toxicants are present at the endometrium. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 843:157005. [PMID: 35772554 PMCID: PMC10989715 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.157005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 06/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recent epidemiologic research shows many environmental chemicals exhibit endocrine disrupting effects on the female reproductive system. Few studies have examined exposure at reproductive organs. Our aim was to perform a preliminary untargeted metabolomic characterization of menstrual blood, a novel biofluid, to identify environmental toxins present in the endometrium and evaluate the suitability of this sample type for exposome research. METHODS Whole blood menstrual samples were collected from four women using a menstrual cup. Samples were analyzed for small molecules that include both environmental chemicals and endogenous metabolites using untargeted liquid chromatography with high-resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS). Principal component analysis (PCA) and ANOVA was used to identify differences within and between individuals' menstrual blood metabolomic profiles, and the influence of the sample processing method. To assess the presence of environmental exposures, LC-HRMS chemical profiles were matched to the ToxCast chemical database, which includes 4557 commonly used commercial chemicals. Select compounds were confirmed by comparison to reference standards. RESULTS PCA of metabolome profiles showed analysis of menstrual blood samples were highly reproducible, with high variability in detected metabolites between participants and low variability between analytical replicates of an individual's sample. Endogenous metabolites detected in menstrual blood samples achieved good coverage of the human blood metabolome. We found 1748 annotations for environmental chemicals, including suspected reproductive toxicants such as phenols, parabens, phthalates, and organochlorines. Storage temperature for the first 24 h did not significantly influence global metabolomic profiles. CONCLUSION Our results show chemical exposures linked to reproductive toxicity and endocrine disruption are present in menstrual blood, a sampling medium for the endometrium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily L Silva
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Department of Environmental Health, 665 Huntington Avenue Building 1, Boston, MA 02115, USA
| | - Douglas I Walker
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Zoe Coates Fuentes
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Brismar Pinto-Pacheco
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Christine N Metz
- The Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, 500 Hofstra Blvd, Hempstead, NY 11549, USA; Institute of Molecular Medicine, The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA
| | - Peter K Gregersen
- The Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, 500 Hofstra Blvd, Hempstead, NY 11549, USA; Institute of Molecular Medicine, The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA; Robert S. Boas Center for Genomics and Human Genetics, The Feinstein Institute for Medical Research, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY 11030, USA
| | - Shruthi Mahalingaiah
- Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Department of Environmental Health, 665 Huntington Avenue Building 1, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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Moldenhauer LM, Jin M, Wilson JJ, Green ES, Sharkey DJ, Salkeld MD, Bristow TC, Hull ML, Dekker GA, Robertson SA. Regulatory T Cell Proportion and Phenotype Are Altered in Women Using Oral Contraception. Endocrinology 2022; 163:6628694. [PMID: 35786711 PMCID: PMC9354970 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqac098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Regulatory T (Treg) cells are a specialized CD4+ T cell subpopulation that are essential for immune homeostasis, immune tolerance, and protection against autoimmunity. There is evidence that sex-steroid hormones estrogen and progesterone modulate Treg cell abundance and phenotype in women. Since natural oscillations in these hormones are modified by hormonal contraceptives, we examined whether oral contraception (OC) use impacts Treg cells and related T cell populations. T cells were analyzed by multiparameter flow cytometry in peripheral blood collected across the menstrual cycle from healthy women either using OC or without hormonal contraception and from age-matched men. Compared to naturally cycling women, women using OC had fewer Treg cells and an altered Treg cell phenotype. Notably, Treg cells exhibiting a strongly suppressive phenotype, defined by high FOXP3, CD25, Helios, HLADR, CTLA4, and Ki67, comprised a lower proportion of total Treg cells, particularly in the early- and mid-cycle phases. The changes were moderate compared to more substantial differences in Treg cells between women and men, wherein women had fewer Treg cells-especially of the effector memory Treg cell subset-associated with more T helper type 1 (Th1) cells and CD8+ T cells and lower Treg:Th1 cell and Treg:CD8+ T cell ratios than men. These findings imply that OC can modulate the number and phenotype of peripheral blood Treg cells and raise the possibility that Treg cells contribute to the physiological changes and altered disease susceptibility linked with OC use.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jasmine J Wilson
- Robinson Research Institute and School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Ella S Green
- Robinson Research Institute and School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - David J Sharkey
- Robinson Research Institute and School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Mark D Salkeld
- Robinson Research Institute and School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Thomas C Bristow
- Robinson Research Institute and School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - M Louise Hull
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Gustaaf A Dekker
- Robinson Research Institute and Adelaide Medical School, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Division of Women’s Health, Lyell McEwin Hospital, Elizabeth Vale, Australia
| | - Sarah A Robertson
- Correspondence: Sarah A. Robertson, PhD, Robinson Research Institute and the School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia.
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Abudukeyoumu A, Lai ZZ, Lu JJ, Zhang X, Hou DY, Dong J, Wu JN, Li MQ, Xie F. A LIGHT-HVEM/LTβR axis contributes to the fibrosis of intrauterine adhesion. J Reprod Immunol 2022; 153:103693. [PMID: 35987137 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2022.103693] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Intrauterine adhesion (IUA) is a fibrotic disease, with complex and multifactorial process, causing menstrual disorders, pregnancy loss or infertility. LIGHT (also named TNFSF14), mainly expressed by immune cells, has been reported to be associated with tissue fibrosis. However, the features of immunocyte subsets, the expression and roles of LIGHT and its receptor HVEM (herpes virus entry mediator) and LTβR (lymphotoxin beta receptor) in IUA remain largely unknown. Compared with the control group, we observed increased ratios of CD45+ cells, neutrophils, T cells, macrophages and decreased natural killer cells proportion, and high LIGHT expression on CD4+ T cells and macrophages in IUA endometrium. Further analysis showed there was a positive correlation between upregulated profibrotic factors (e.g., ɑ-smooth muscle actin, transforming growth factor β1) and HVEM in IUA endometrial tissue. More importantly, recombinant human LIGHT protein directly up-regulated the expression of HVEM, LTβR, profibrotic and proinflammatory factors expression in human endometrial stromal cells. These findings reveal abnormal changes of immune cell subsets proportion and the overexpression of LIGHT-HVEM/LTβR axis in IUA endometrium, should contribute to inflammation and fibrosis formation of IUA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayitila Abudukeyoumu
- Medical Center of Diagnosis and Treatment for Cervical and Intrauterine Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhen-Zhen Lai
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, People's Republic of China
| | - Jia-Jing Lu
- Medical Center of Diagnosis and Treatment for Cervical and Intrauterine Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Xing Zhang
- Medical Center of Diagnosis and Treatment for Cervical and Intrauterine Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Ding-Yu Hou
- Medical Center of Diagnosis and Treatment for Cervical and Intrauterine Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Jing Dong
- Medical Center of Diagnosis and Treatment for Cervical and Intrauterine Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Jiang-Nan Wu
- Clinical Epidemiology, Clinical Research Center, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, People's Republic of China
| | - Ming-Qing Li
- Laboratory for Reproductive Immunology, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, People's Republic of China; NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation, Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies, Fudan University, Shanghai 201203, People's Republic of China; Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fudan University, Shanghai 200080, People's Republic of China.
| | - Feng Xie
- Medical Center of Diagnosis and Treatment for Cervical and Intrauterine Diseases, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, People's Republic of China.
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Zeng S, Liu X, Liu D, Song W. Research update for the immune microenvironment of chronic endometritis. J Reprod Immunol 2022; 152:103637. [PMID: 35576684 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2022.103637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Chronic endometritis (CE) is a persistent and subtle local inflammatory disease characterized by abnormal plasma cell infiltration in the endometrial stroma.The incidence of chronic endometritis is as high as 15-57.5% in women suffering from infertility, implantation failure of in vitro fertilization (IVF) and unexplained recurrent abortion. Many studies both at home and abroad have shown that CE can reduce the receptivity of endometrium and affect embryo implantation. According to the existing reproductive immunity research, the abnormality of immune cell subsets in endometrium is an important factors leading to pregnancy failure. The immune microenvironment in endometrium consists of immune cells and immune molecules, and their influence on embryo implantation can not be ignored. This review paper discusses the controversy of pathogenesis, diagnosis and treatment of CE from the perspective of immune microenvironment by referring to related literature at home and abroad, and investigates the possible ways to improve the diagnosis and treatment of CE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuli Zeng
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University (Shenzhen People's Hospital), Shenzhen 518020, China
| | - Xinqiong Liu
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University (Shenzhen People's Hospital), Shenzhen 518020, China
| | - Dongzhou Liu
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University (Shenzhen People's Hospital), Shenzhen 518020, China
| | - Wencong Song
- The Second Clinical Medical College, Jinan University (Shenzhen People's Hospital), Shenzhen 518020, China
- Hainan Vocational University of Science and Technology, No.18 Qiongshan Avenue, Meilan District, Haikou City 571126, Hainan Province, China
- Shenzhen Children's Hospital Affiliated to Shantou University Medical College, Shenzhen 518038, China
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Lee KMN, Junkins EJ, Luo C, Fatima UA, Cox ML, Clancy KBH. Investigating trends in those who experience menstrual bleeding changes after SARS-CoV-2 vaccination. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2022; 8:eabm7201. [PMID: 35857495 PMCID: PMC9286513 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.abm7201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Early in 2021, many people began sharing that they experienced unexpected menstrual bleeding after SARS-CoV-2 inoculation. We investigated this emerging phenomenon of changed menstrual bleeding patterns among a convenience sample of currently and formerly menstruating people using a web-based survey. In this sample, 42% of people with regular menstrual cycles bled more heavily than usual, while 44% reported no change after being vaccinated. Among respondents who typically do not menstruate, 71% of people on long-acting reversible contraceptives, 39% of people on gender-affirming hormones, and 66% of postmenopausal people reported breakthrough bleeding. We found that increased/breakthrough bleeding was significantly associated with age, systemic vaccine side effects (fever and/or fatigue), history of pregnancy or birth, and ethnicity. Generally, changes to menstrual bleeding are not uncommon or dangerous, yet attention to these experiences is necessary to build trust in medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katharine M. N. Lee
- Division of Public Health Sciences, Department of Surgery, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
- Department of Anthropology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA
- Studies of Women, Gender, and Sexuality, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Eleanor J. Junkins
- Department of Psychology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA
| | - Chongliang Luo
- Division of Public Health Sciences, Department of Surgery, Washington University in St. Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Urooba A. Fatima
- Department of Anthropology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA
| | - Maria L. Cox
- Program in Ecology, Evolution, and Conservation, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA
| | - Kathryn B. H. Clancy
- Department of Anthropology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA
- Program in Ecology, Evolution, and Conservation, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA
- Beckman Institute of Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA
- Institute for Genomic Biology, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, IL, USA
- Corresponding author.
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Mano Y, Kato A, Fukuda N, Yamada K, Yanagimoto K. Influence of Ingestion of Eicosapentaenoic Acid-Rich Fish Oil on Oxidative Stress at the Menstrual Phase: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Parallel-Group Trial. WOMEN'S HEALTH REPORTS 2022; 3:643-651. [PMID: 35982775 PMCID: PMC9380882 DOI: 10.1089/whr.2022.0003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background: This study examines the effect of the supplements on the redox reaction in menstrual cycle. Participants took eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA)-rich fish oil supplements over two menstrual cycles. Materials and Methods: For this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 21 female members of a university basketball team were selected. Participants were allocated into the EPA/docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) group (EG, n = 11) and control group (CG, n = 10) through stratified randomization. The EG and CG took 3600 mg fish oil (containing 900 mg EPA and 403 mg DHA) and 3600 mg corn oil (without EPA and DHA), respectively, every day for two menstrual cycles. The redox reaction was measured four times: the menstrual and follicular phases in two menstrual cycles. Results: There was a significant difference in reactive oxygen metabolites (d-ROMs) and potential antioxidant capacity during the menstrual phase by the main effect of time (before and after intake) in EG and CG (p < 0.01). In a subsequent test, d-ROMs were significantly lower after intake in EG and CG (p < 0.05); however, no significant difference in potential antioxidant capacity was found. A significant difference was noted in d-ROMs and potential antioxidant capacity during the follicular phase by the effect of time (before and after intake) only in EG (p < 0.01). Significant decreases in d-ROMs and increases in potential antioxidant capacities were observed after intake (p < 0.05). Conclusion: EPA-rich fish oil supplementation over two menstrual cycles demonstrated active involvement in the antioxidant function during menstrual and follicular phases. The protocol was registered at the University Hospital Medical Information Network Clinical Trial Registry (registration no. UMIN000028795).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoshihiko Mano
- Department of Sports Nutrition, School of Physical Education, Sendai University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Ayaka Kato
- Food Function R & D Center Nippon Suisan Kaisha, Ltd., Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nobuo Fukuda
- Department of Health and Welfare, School of Physical Education, Sendai University, Sendai, Japan
| | - Keiko Yamada
- Department of Physical Education, School of Physical Education, Sendai University, Sendai, Japan
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Lampiasi N. Interactions between Macrophages and Mast Cells in the Female Reproductive System. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23105414. [PMID: 35628223 PMCID: PMC9142086 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23105414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Mast cells (MCs) and macrophages (Mϕs) are innate immune cells that differentiate from early common myeloid precursors and reside in all body tissues. MCs have a unique capacity to neutralize/degrade toxic proteins, and they are hypothesized as being able to adopt two alternative polarization profiles, similar to Mϕs, with distinct or even opposite roles. Mϕs are very plastic phagocytic cells that are devoted to the elimination of senescent/anomalous endogenous entities (to maintain tissue homeostasis), and to the recognition and elimination of exogenous threats. They can adopt several functional phenotypes in response to microenvironmental cues, whose extreme profiles are the inflammatory/killing phenotype (M1) and the anti-inflammatory/healing phenotype (M2). The concomitant and abundant presence of these two cell types and the partial overlap of their defensive and homeostatic functions leads to the hypothesis that their crosstalk is necessary for the optimal coordination of their functions, both under physiological and pathological conditions. This review will examine the relationship between MCs and Mϕs in some situations of homeostatic regulation (menstrual cycle, embryo implantation), and in some inflammatory conditions in the same organs (endometriosis, preeclampsia), in order to appreciate the importance of their cross-regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Lampiasi
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Istituto per la Ricerca e l'Innovazione Biomedica, Via Ugo La Malfa 153, 90146 Palermo, Italy
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Effect of Manual Therapy Compared to Ibuprofen on Primary Dysmenorrhea in Young Women-Concentration Assessment of C-Reactive Protein, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor, Prostaglandins and Sex Hormones. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11102686. [PMID: 35628817 PMCID: PMC9143956 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11102686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The study aimed to assess if manual therapy, compared to ibuprofen, impacts the concentration of inflammatory factors, sex hormones, and dysmenorrhea in young women Methods: Thirty-five women, clinically diagnosed with dysmenorrhea, were included in the study. They were divided into group A—manual therapy (n = 20) and group B—ibuprofen therapy (n = 15). Inflammatory factors such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), C-reactive protein (CRP), prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α), E2 (PGE2) and sex hormones levels were measured. Dysmenorrhea assessed with the numerical pain rating scale (NPRS), myofascial trigger points, and muscle flexibility were examined before and after the interventions. Results: The difference in the level of 17-β-estradiol after manual and ibuprofen therapy was significant, as compared to baseline (p = 0.036). Progesterone levels decreased in group A (p = 0.002) and B (p = 0.028). The level of CRP was negatively correlated with sex hormones. Decrease in dysmenorrhea was significant in both groups (group A p = 0.016, group B p = 0.028). Non-significant differences were reported in prostaglandins, VEGF and CRP levels, in both groups. Conclusions: There were no significant differences in CRP, prostaglandins and VEGF factors after manual or ibuprofen therapy. It has been shown that both manual therapy and ibuprofen can decrease progesterone levels. Manual therapy had a similar effect on the severity of dysmenorrhea as ibuprofen, but after manual therapy, unlike after ibuprofen, less muscles with dysfunction were detected in patients with primary dysmenorrhea.
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PPAR gamma ligands regulate the expression of inflammatory mediators in porcine endometrium during LPS-induced inflammation. Theriogenology 2022; 187:195-204. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.04.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Dysmenorrhea across the lifespan: a biopsychosocial perspective to understanding the dysmenorrhea trajectory and association with comorbid pain experiences. Pain 2022; 163:2069-2075. [PMID: 35420567 DOI: 10.1097/j.pain.0000000000002649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Demirel E, Sabouni R, Chandra N, Slayden OD, Archer DF. The Plasminogen Activator System, Glucocorticoid, and Mineralocorticoid Receptors in the Primate Endometrium During Artificial Menstrual Cycles. Reprod Sci 2022; 29:1001-1019. [PMID: 34796470 PMCID: PMC8863636 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00797-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
As a key mechanism in fibrinolysis and tissue remodeling, the plasminogen activator system has been suggested in the process of endometrial shedding and tissue remodeling. Previous studies have explored the role of estrogen, progesterone, and androgen receptors as well as elements of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system in shaping the morphology of the endometrium. This study investigates the distribution and concentrations of the mineralocorticoid receptor, glucocorticoid receptor, tissue plasminogen activator, urokinase plasminogen activator, and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 within the endometrial stroma, glandular, and endothelial cells of the primate endometrium during artificial menstrual cycles. Our immunohistochemistry quantification shows mineralocorticoid and glucocorticoid receptors are ubiquitously distributed within the macaque endometrium with their patterns of expression following similar fluctuations to urokinase and tissue plasminogen activators particularly within the endometrial vasculature. These proteins are present in endometrial vasculature in high levels during the proliferative phase, decreasing levels during the secretory phase followed by rising levels in the menstrual phase. These similarities could suggest overlapping pathways and interactions between the plasminogen activator system and the steroid receptors within the endometrium. Given the anti-inflammatory properties of glucocorticoids and the role of plasminogen activators in endometrial breakdown, the glucocorticoid receptor may be contributing to stabilizing the endometrium by regulating plasminogen activators during the proliferative phase and menstruation. Furthermore, given the anti-mineralocorticoid properties of certain anti-androgenic progestins and their reduced unscheduled uterine bleeding patterns, the mineralocorticoid receptor may be involved in unscheduled endometrial bleeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esra Demirel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell Health, 300 Community Dr, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA.
| | - Reem Sabouni
- The Clinical Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Neelima Chandra
- The Clinical Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Ov D Slayden
- Oregon National Primate Research Center, Beaverton, OR, USA
| | - David F Archer
- The Clinical Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
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Kim TH, Young SL, Sasaki T, Deaton JL, Schammel DP, Palomino WA, Jeong JW, Lessey BA. Role of SIRT1 and Progesterone Resistance in Normal and Abnormal Endometrium. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2022; 107:788-800. [PMID: 34665857 PMCID: PMC8851922 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgab753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Progesterone resistance, a known pathologic condition associated with a reduced cellular response to progesterone and heightened estrogen responses, appears to have a normal physiologic role in mammalian reproduction. The molecular mechanism responsible for progesterone resistance in normal and abnormal endometrium remains unclear. OBJECTIVE To examine the roles of sirtuin-1 (SIRT1) in normal endometrium as well as endometrium associated with infertility and endometriosis, as an epigenetic modulator associated with progesterone resistance. METHODS SIRT1 expression was examined by Western blot, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, and immunohistochemistry in mouse uterus and human endometrium. Mice with uterine specific Sirt1 overexpression were developed to examine SIRT1's role in endometrial function and endometriosis development. EX-527, a SIRT1 inhibitor, and SRT1720, a SIRT1 agonist, were also used to evaluate SIRT1 effect on endometriosis. RESULTS In normal healthy women, endometrial SIRT1 is expressed only during menses. SIRT1 was dramatically overexpressed in the endometrium from women with endometriosis in both the epithelium and stroma. In mice, SIRT1 is expressed at the time of implantation between day 4.5 and 5.5 of pregnancy. Overexpression of SIRT1 in the mouse uterus leads to subfertility due to implantation failure, decidualization defects and progesterone resistance. SIRT1 overexpression in endometriotic lesions promotes worsening endometriosis development. EX-527 significantly reduced the number of endometriotic lesions in the mouse endometriosis model. CONCLUSIONS SIRT1 expression and progesterone resistance appears to play roles in normal endometrial functions. Aberrant SIRT1 expression contributes to progesterone resistance and may participate in the pathophysiology of endometriosis. SIRT1 is a novel and targetable protein for the diagnosis as well as treatment of endometriosis and the associated infertility seen in this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tae Hoon Kim
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
| | - Steven L Young
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Tsutomu Sasaki
- Laboratory of Nutrition Chemistry, Division of Food Science and Biotechnology Graduate School of Agriculture, Kyoto University, Kitashirakawa Oiwakecho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Jeffrey L Deaton
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wake Forest Baptist Health, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
| | | | - Wilder Alberto Palomino
- Institute for Maternal and Child Research, Reproductive Medicine and Infertility Unit, University of Chile & Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, San Borja Arriarán Clinical Hospital, Santiago, Chile
| | - Jae-Wook Jeong
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, MI, USA
- Correspondence: Jae-Wook Jeong, PhD, Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, 400 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, USA.
| | - Bruce A Lessey
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wake Forest Baptist Health, Winston-Salem, NC, USA
- Bruce A. Lessey, MD, PhD, 1 Medical Center Blvd, 4th Floor Watlington Hall, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wake Forest Baptist Health, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA.
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Watters M, Martínez-Aguilar R, Maybin JA. The Menstrual Endometrium: From Physiology to Future Treatments. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2022; 3:794352. [PMID: 36304053 PMCID: PMC9580798 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2021.794352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) is experienced by up to a third of women of reproductive age. It can cause anaemia and often results in decreased quality of life. A range of medical and surgical treatments are available but are associated with side effects and variable effectiveness. To improve the lives of those suffering from menstrual disorders, delineation of endometrial physiology is required. This allows an increased understanding of how this physiology may be disturbed, leading to uterine pathologies. In this way, more specific preventative and therapeutic strategies may be developed to personalise management of this common symptom. In this review, the impact of AUB globally is outlined, alongside the urgent clinical need for improved medical treatments. Current knowledge of endometrial physiology at menstruation is discussed, focusing on endocrine regulation of menstruation and local endometrial inflammation, tissue breakdown, hypoxia and endometrial repair. The contribution of the specialised endometrial vasculature and coagulation system during menstruation is highlighted. What is known regarding aberrations in endometrial physiology that result in AUB is discussed, with a focus on endometrial disorders (AUB-E) and adenomyosis (AUB-A). Gaps in existing knowledge and areas for future research are signposted throughout, with a focus on potential translational benefits for those experiencing abnormal uterine bleeding. Personalisation of treatment strategies for menstrual disorders is then examined, considering genetic, environmental and demographic characteristics of individuals to optimise their clinical management. Finally, an ideal model of future management of AUB is proposed. This would involve targeted diagnosis of specific endometrial aberrations in individuals, in the context of holistic medicine and with due consideration of personal circumstances and preferences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianne Watters
- Simpson Centre for Reproductive Health, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, NHS Lothian, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | | | - Jacqueline A. Maybin
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
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Jaleel G, Shaphe MA, Khan AR, Malhotra D, Khan H, Parveen S, Qasheesh M, Beg RA, Chahal A, Ahmad F, Ahmad MF. Effect of Exercises on Central and Endocrine System for Pain Modulation in Primary Dysmenorrhea. J Lifestyle Med 2022; 12:15-25. [PMID: 35300040 PMCID: PMC8918380 DOI: 10.15280/jlm.2022.12.1.15] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Dysmenorrhea is the term for describing complex menstrual flow and painful spasmodic cramps during menstruation, and pain without any pathology is considered Primary Dysmenorrhea (PD). It is the most frequent ailment among women of all ages and races. The pain is dull and throbbing in character and occurs in the lower back and abdomen. Symptoms commonly appear 6 to 12 months after menarche, with the most significant incidence in the late teen and early twenties. Physical exercise is nearly a new non-medical intervention to relieve PD associated pain. Aerobics, stretching and Resistive exercises for 8-12 weeks, either supervised or unsupervised, relieves pain. Exercises are believed to cause hormonal changes in the uterine lining, which reduces PD symptoms. Researchers have presumed different pain-relieving methods, ranging from non-opioids to opioids to hormonal for variations in pain sensitivity. Exercise-induced analgesia provides the central pathway as the primary mechanism for pain reduction while, another way to reducing pain in PD may be a hormonal interaction. The hormonal changes causing exercise-induced pain modulation during the menstruation cycle is not clearly understood and the interaction and activation of all the central and endocrine components, which is a complex mechanism, is also not explained clearly. This study briefly reviews the physiological mechanism of Exercise-induced analgesia and its potent roles in controlling the pathogenesis of PD for pain relief.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghufran Jaleel
- Centre for Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Sciences, Jamia Millia Islamia, India
| | - Muhammad Abu Shaphe
- Physical Therapy College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Deepak Malhotra
- Department of Rehabilitation, School of Nursing Sciences and Allied Health, Jamia Hamdard, Delhi, India
| | - Huma Khan
- Department of Rehabilitation, School of Nursing Sciences and Allied Health, Jamia Hamdard, Delhi, India
| | - Sana Parveen
- Ayurvedic and Unani Tibbia College, Karol Bagh, India
| | - Mohammed Qasheesh
- Physical Therapy College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rashid Ali Beg
- Physical Therapy College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - Aksh Chahal
- Maharishi Markandeshwar Institute of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation, Maharishi Markandeshwar (Deemed to be University), Haryana, India
| | - Fuzail Ahmad
- Department of Physical Therapy and Health Rehabilitation, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Majmaah University, Majmaah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Md Faruque Ahmad
- Department of Clinical Nutrition, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Jazan University, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
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48
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Moxibustion for Primary Dysmenorrhea: An Adjuvant Therapy for Pain Relief. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:6864195. [PMID: 35126603 PMCID: PMC8813230 DOI: 10.1155/2022/6864195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 12/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The latest spectrum of moxibustion disease shows that primary dysmenorrhea is a high-frequency symptom of moxibustion and that it is the dominant clinical disease. In the specific treatment methods, all types of moxibustion methods have been widely used, such as thermal, thunder fire, partitioned, and spreading moxibustion. Moxibustion plays a therapeutic role through its four mechanisms of action: heat, light, moxa smoke, and drug effects. The mechanism of moxibustion treatment for primary dysmenorrhea focuses on adjusting endocrine hormones, regulating immune function and neuro-related factors, and improving uterine microcirculation. In this study, based on the clinical evidence of different moxibustion methods for treating primary dysmenorrhea, the design model, intervention characteristics, and clinical outcomes were analyzed. Meanwhile, the brain effect mechanisms of different imaging methods were summarized from the perspective of neuroimaging. It was pointed out that the left anterior cingulate gyrus, left inferior parietal angular gyrus, and left superior gyrus may be the analgesic brain regions that regulate sensory, emotional, and cognitive aspects. Moreover, the neural circuits involved can be inferred: the frontal cortex-basal ganglia (the pea nucleus)-cerebral cortex, which mediates motivation and emotional drive, and the parietal lobe-basal ganglia-limbic lobe-frontal lobe, which is involved in neurotransmitter transport and emotional regulation and behavioral expression. There are still problems and deficiencies in studies on the mechanism of moxibustion treatment for primary dysmenorrhea. Studies should be strengthened on how moxibustion produces an effect. Attention should be paid to exploring how the spectrum range and peak in the light effect of moxibustion treat primary dysmenorrhea. Studies assessing the mechanisms of moxibustion treatment for primary dysmenorrhea should be conducted to provide an experimental basis and evidence-based medical evidence for clinical treatment.
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Kirkwood PM, Shaw IW, Saunders PTK. Mechanisms of Scarless Repair at Time of Menstruation: Insights From Mouse Models. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2022; 3:801843. [PMID: 36304046 PMCID: PMC9580659 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2021.801843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The human endometrium is a remarkable tissue which may experience up to 400 cycles of hormone-driven proliferation, differentiation and breakdown during a woman's reproductive lifetime. During menstruation, when the luminal portion of tissue breaks down, it resembles a bloody wound with piecemeal shedding, exposure of underlying stroma and a strong inflammatory reaction. In the absence of pathology within a few days the integrity of the tissue is restored without formation of a scar and the endometrium is able to respond appropriately to subsequent endocrine signals in preparation for establishment of pregnancy if fertilization occurs. Understanding mechanisms regulating scarless repair of the endometrium is important both for design of therapies which can treat conditions where this is aberrant (heavy menstrual bleeding, fibroids, endometriosis, Asherman's syndrome) as well as to provide new information that might allow us to reduce fibrosis and scar formation in other tissues. Menstruation only occurs naturally in species that exhibit spontaneous stromal cell decidualization during the fertile cycle such as primates (including women) and the Spiny mouse. To take advantage of genetic models and detailed time course analysis, mouse models of endometrial shedding/repair involving hormonal manipulation, artificial induction of decidualization and hormone withdrawal have been developed and refined. These models are useful in modeling dynamic changes across the time course of repair and have recapitulated key features of endometrial repair in women including local hypoxia and immune cell recruitment. In this review we will consider the evidence that scarless repair of endometrial tissue involves changes in stromal cell function including mesenchyme to epithelial transition, epithelial cell proliferation and multiple populations of immune cells. Processes contributing to endometrial fibrosis (Asherman's syndrome) as well as scarless repair of other tissues including skin and oral mucosa are compared to that of menstrual repair.
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Salamonsen LA. Menstrual Fluid Factors Mediate Endometrial Repair. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2021; 3:779979. [PMID: 36304016 PMCID: PMC9580638 DOI: 10.3389/frph.2021.779979] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Menstruation is a process whereby the outer functionalis layer of the endometrium is shed each month in response to falling progesterone and estrogen levels in a non-conception cycle. Simultaneously with the tissue breakdown, the surface is re-epithelialized, protecting the wound from infection. Once menstruation is complete and estrogen levels start to rise, regeneration progresses throughout the proliferative phase of the cycle, to fully restore endometrial thickness. Endometrial repair is unique compared to tissue repair elsewhere in the adult, in that it is rapid, scar-free and occurs around 400 times during each modern woman's reproductive life. The shedding tissue and that undergoing repair is bathed in menstrual fluid, which contains live cells, cellular debris, fragments of extracellular matrix, activated leukocytes and their products, soluble cellular components and extracellular vesicles. Proteomic and other analyses have revealed some detail of these components. Menstrual fluid, along with a number of individual proteins enhances epithelial cell migration to cover the wound. This is shown in endometrial epithelial and keratinocyte cell culture models, in an ex vivo decellularized skin model and in pig wounds in vivo. Thus, the microenvironment provided by menstrual fluid, is likely responsible for the unique rapid and scar-free repair of this remarkable tissue. Insight gained from analysis of this fluid is likely to be of value not only for treating endometrial bleeding problems but also in providing potential new therapies for poorly repairing wounds such as those seen in the aged and in diabetics.
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