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Hamburg-Shields E, Mesiano S. The hormonal control of parturition. Physiol Rev 2024; 104:1121-1145. [PMID: 38329421 PMCID: PMC11380996 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00019.2023] [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: 04/20/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Parturition is a complex physiological process that must occur in a reliable manner and at an appropriate gestation stage to ensure a healthy newborn and mother. To this end, hormones that affect the function of the gravid uterus, especially progesterone (P4), 17β-estradiol (E2), oxytocin (OT), and prostaglandins (PGs), play pivotal roles. P4 via the nuclear P4 receptor (PR) promotes uterine quiescence and for most of pregnancy exerts a dominant block to labor. Loss of the P4 block to parturition in association with a gain in prolabor actions of E2 are key transitions in the hormonal cascade leading to parturition. P4 withdrawal can occur through various mechanisms depending on species and physiological context. Parturition in most species involves inflammation within the uterine tissues and especially at the maternal-fetal interface. Local PGs and other inflammatory mediators may initiate parturition by inducing P4 withdrawal. Withdrawal of the P4 block is coordinated with increased E2 actions to enhance uterotonic signals mediated by OT and PGs to promote uterine contractions, cervix softening, and membrane rupture, i.e., labor. This review examines recent advances in research to understand the hormonal control of parturition, with focus on the roles of P4, E2, PGs, OT, inflammatory cytokines, and placental peptide hormones together with evolutionary biology of and implications for clinical management of human parturition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Hamburg-Shields
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospitals of Cleveland, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
| | - Sam Mesiano
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospitals of Cleveland, Cleveland, Ohio, United States
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Uvnäs-Moberg K. The physiology and pharmacology of oxytocin in labor and in the peripartum period. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2024; 230:S740-S758. [PMID: 38462255 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2023.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/12/2024]
Abstract
Oxytocin is a reproductive hormone implicated in the process of parturition and widely used during labor. Oxytocin is produced within the supraoptic nucleus and paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus and released from the posterior pituitary lobe into the circulation. Oxytocin is released in pulses with increasing frequency and amplitude in the first and second stages of labor, with a few pulses released in the third stage of labor. During labor, the fetus exerts pressure on the cervix of the uterus, which activates a feedforward reflex-the Ferguson reflex-which releases oxytocin. When myometrial contractions activate sympathetic nerves, it decreases oxytocin release. When oxytocin binds to specific myometrial oxytocin receptors, it induces myometrial contractions. High levels of circulating estrogen at term make the receptors more sensitive. In addition, oxytocin stimulates prostaglandin synthesis and release in the decidua and chorioamniotic membranes by activating a specific type of oxytocin receptor. Prostaglandins contribute to cervical ripening and uterine contractility in labor. The oxytocin system in the brain has been implicated in decreasing maternal levels of fear, pain, and stress, and oxytocin release and function during labor are stimulated by a social support. Moreover, studies suggest, but have not yet proven, that labor may be associated with long-term, behavioral and physiological adaptations in the mother and infant, possibly involving epigenetic modulation of oxytocin production and release and the oxytocin receptor. In addition, infusions of synthetic oxytocin are used to induce and augment labor. Oxytocin may be administered according to different dose regimens at increasing rates from 1 to 3 mIU/min to a maximal rate of 36 mIU/min at 15- to 40-minute intervals. The total amount of synthetic oxytocin given during labor can be 5 to 10 IU, but lower and higher amounts of oxytocin may also be given. High-dose infusions of oxytocin may shorten the duration of labor by up to 2 hours compared with no infusion of oxytocin; however, it does not lower the frequency of cesarean delivery. When synthetic oxytocin is administered, the plasma concentration of oxytocin increases in a dose-dependent way: at infusion rates of 20 to 30 mIU/min, plasma oxytocin concentration increases approximately 2- to 3-fold above the basal level. Synthetic oxytocin administered at recommended dose levels is not likely to cross the placenta or maternal blood-brain barrier. Synthetic oxytocin should be administered with caution as high levels may induce tachystole and uterine overstimulation, with potentially negative consequences for the fetus and possibly the mother. Of note, 5 to 10 IU of synthetic oxytocin is often routinely given as an intravenous or intramuscular bolus administration after delivery to induce uterine contractility, which, in turn, induces uterine separation of the placenta and prevents postpartum hemorrhage. Furthermore, it promotes the expulsion of the placenta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kerstin Uvnäs-Moberg
- Department of Animal Environment and Health, Swedish University of Agriculture, Uppsala, Sweden.
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Diessler ME, Hernández R, Gomez Castro G, Barbeito CG. Decidual cells and decidualization in the carnivoran endotheliochorial placenta. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1134874. [PMID: 37009475 PMCID: PMC10060884 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1134874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Decidualization is considered a distinctive feature of eutherian pregnancy, and has appeared during evolution along with the development of invasive forms of placentation, as the endotheliochorial placenta. Although decidualization is not massive in carnivores, as it is in most species developing hemochorial placentas, isolated or grouped cells regarded as decidual have been documented and characterized, mainly in bitches and queens. For the majority of the remaining species of the order, data in the bibliography are fragmentary. In this article, general morphological aspects of decidual stromal cells (DSCs), their time of appearance and lasting, data about the expression of cytoskeletal proteins and molecules considered as markers of decidualization were reviewed. From the data reviewed, it follows that carnivoran DSCs take part either in the secretion of progesterone, prostaglandins, relaxin, among other substances, or at least in the signaling pathways triggered by them. Beyond their physiological roles, some of those molecules are already being used, or are yet under study, for the non-invasive endocrine monitoring and reproductive control of domestic and wild carnivores. Only insulin-like growth factor binding protein 1, among the main decidual markers, has been undoubtedly demonstrated in both species. Laminin, on the contrary, was found only in feline DSCs, and prolactin was preliminary reported in dogs and cats. Prolactin receptor, on the other hand, was found in both species. While canine DSCs are the only placental cell type expressing the nuclear progesterone receptor (PGR), that receptor has not been demonstrated neither in feline DSCs, nor in any other cell in the queen placenta, although the use of PGR blockers leads to abortion. Against this background, and from the data gathered so far, it is unquestionable that DSCs in carnivorans do play a pivotal role in placental development and health. The knowledge about placental physiology is critical for medical care and breeding management, primarily in domestic carnivores; it is also absolutely crucial for a conservation approach in the management of endangered carnivore species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mónica Elizabeth Diessler
- Laboratorio de Histología y Embriología Descriptiva, Experimental y Comparada (LHYEDEC), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de La Plata (FCV, UNLP), La Plata, Argentina
- *Correspondence: Mónica Elizabeth Diessler,
| | - Rocío Hernández
- Laboratorio de Histología y Embriología Descriptiva, Experimental y Comparada (LHYEDEC), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de La Plata (FCV, UNLP), La Plata, Argentina
| | - Gimena Gomez Castro
- Laboratorio de Histología y Embriología Descriptiva, Experimental y Comparada (LHYEDEC), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de La Plata (FCV, UNLP), La Plata, Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), FCV, UNLP, La Plata, Argentina
| | - Claudio Gustavo Barbeito
- Laboratorio de Histología y Embriología Descriptiva, Experimental y Comparada (LHYEDEC), Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional de La Plata (FCV, UNLP), La Plata, Argentina
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), FCV, UNLP, La Plata, Argentina
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Rapacz-Leonard A, Leonard M, Chmielewska-Krzesińska M, Siemieniuch M, Janowski TE. The oxytocin-prostaglandins pathways in the horse (Equus caballus) placenta during pregnancy, physiological parturition, and parturition with fetal membrane retention. Sci Rep 2020; 10:2089. [PMID: 32034259 PMCID: PMC7005845 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-59085-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 01/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite their importance in mammalian reproduction, substances in the oxytocin-prostaglandins pathways have not been investigated in the horse placenta during most of pregnancy and parturition. Therefore, we quantified placental content of oxytocin (OXT), oxytocin receptor (OXTR), and prostaglandin E2 and F2 alpha during days 90-240 of pregnancy (PREG), physiological parturition (PHYS), and parturition with fetal membrane retention (FMR) in heavy draft horses (PREG = 13, PHYS = 11, FMR = 10). We also quantified OXTR and prostaglandin endoperoxide synthase-2 (PTGS2) mRNA expression and determined the immunolocalization of OXT, OXTR, and PTGS2. For relative quantification of OXT and OXTR, we used western blotting with densitometry. To quantify the prostaglandins, we used enzyme immunoassays. For relative quantification of OXTR and PTGS2, we used RT-qPCR. For immunolocalization of OXT, OXTR, and PTGS2, we used immunohistochemistry. We found that OXT was present in cells of the allantochorion and endometrium in all groups. PTGS2 expression in the allantochorion was 14.7-fold lower in FMR than in PHYS (p = 0.007). These results suggest that OXT is synthesized in the horse placenta. As PTGS2 synthesis is induced by inflammation, they also suggest that FMR in heavy draft horses may be associated with dysregulation of inflammatory processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Rapacz-Leonard
- Department of Animal Reproduction with Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland.
| | - Mark Leonard
- University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Małgorzata Chmielewska-Krzesińska
- Department of Pathophysiology, Forensic Veterinary and Administration, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Marta Siemieniuch
- Research Station in Popielno/Department of Immunology and Pathology of Reproduction, Polish Academy of Science, Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Tomasz E Janowski
- Department of Animal Reproduction with Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland
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The Regulation of Uterine Function During Parturition: an Update and Recent Advances. Reprod Sci 2020; 27:3-28. [DOI: 10.1007/s43032-019-00001-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2017] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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Napso T, Yong HEJ, Lopez-Tello J, Sferruzzi-Perri AN. The Role of Placental Hormones in Mediating Maternal Adaptations to Support Pregnancy and Lactation. Front Physiol 2018; 9:1091. [PMID: 30174608 PMCID: PMC6108594 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.01091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 245] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2018] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
During pregnancy, the mother must adapt her body systems to support nutrient and oxygen supply for growth of the baby in utero and during the subsequent lactation. These include changes in the cardiovascular, pulmonary, immune and metabolic systems of the mother. Failure to appropriately adjust maternal physiology to the pregnant state may result in pregnancy complications, including gestational diabetes and abnormal birth weight, which can further lead to a range of medically significant complications for the mother and baby. The placenta, which forms the functional interface separating the maternal and fetal circulations, is important for mediating adaptations in maternal physiology. It secretes a plethora of hormones into the maternal circulation which modulate her physiology and transfers the oxygen and nutrients available to the fetus for growth. Among these placental hormones, the prolactin-growth hormone family, steroids and neuropeptides play critical roles in driving maternal physiological adaptations during pregnancy. This review examines the changes that occur in maternal physiology in response to pregnancy and the significance of placental hormone production in mediating such changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tina Napso
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Hannah E J Yong
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Jorge Lopez-Tello
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Amanda N Sferruzzi-Perri
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
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Huang M, Li X, Guo P, Yu Z, Xu Y, Wei Z. The abnormal expression of oxytocin receptors in the uterine junctional zone in women with endometriosis. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2017; 15:1. [PMID: 28049501 PMCID: PMC5209923 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-016-0220-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2016] [Accepted: 12/12/2016] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The junctional zone (JZ), also called as the endometrial-myometrial junction, is related to peristaltic-like movements in the non-pregnant uterus. Hyperperistalsis and dysperistalsis of uterus constructions might underlie many important disorders such as dysmenorrhea, infertility, endometriosis, implantation failure. The major proteins for uterine contraction of the non-pregnant uterus may be Oxytocin (OT) and oxytocin receptor (OTR). The objective of this study was to inspect the expression of OTR in isthmic and mid-fundal parts of the uterine junctional zone at different stages of the follicular cycle in patients with and without endometriosis. METHODS Uterine biopsies containing endometrium and junctional zone were collected from the isthmic and mid-fundal parts of the anterior wall after hysterectomy. The OTR expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry. RESULTS In the control uterus, OTR expression in the isthmic region was significantly higher than in the fundal region in the proliferative phase (p < 0.05) but significantly lower in the secretory phase (p < 0.05). And the expression of OTR in the proliferative phase was significantly higher than that in the secretory phase in both isthmic and fundal regions (p = 0.000 and 0.049, respectively). However, in endometriosis uteri, OTR expression in the isthmic region showed no significant difference with that in the fundal region in both proliferative and secretory phases (p = 0.597 and 0.736, respectively). In both isthmic and fundal regions, OTR expression was not significantly different between the proliferative phase and secretory phase (p = 0.084 and 0.222, respectively). OTR expression in fundal regions of revised ASRM I and II endometriosis were lower than that of revised ASRM III and IV (p = 0.049). In the fundal region of JZ, the expression of OTR in ovarian endometriosis was significantly lower than that in deep infiltrating endometriosis (p = 0.046). The expression level of OTR in the funds region is positively associated with the severity of dysmenorrhea in endometriosis group (r = 0.870, p < 0.05). Comparing to normal uteri, the expression of OTR in the secretory phase was significantly higher in the endometriosis uteri (p < 0.05). In the fundus of endometriosis uteri, OTR expression was significantly higher in both the proliferative and secretory phases (p = 0.045 and 0.028, respectively). CONCLUSION OTR expression in the JZ of women with endometriosis changes significantly, which may result in abnormal uterine contractile activity, reducing the endometriosis-related fertility and dysmenorrhea.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miaomaio Huang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Meishan Road, Hefei, 230000 China
- Assisted Reproductive Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Meishan Road, Hefei, 230000 China
| | - Xuqing Li
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Meishan Road, Hefei, 230000 China
| | - Peipei Guo
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Meishan Road, Hefei, 230000 China
| | - Zhaojuan Yu
- Assisted Reproductive Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Meishan Road, Hefei, 230000 China
| | - Yuting Xu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Meishan Road, Hefei, 230000 China
| | - Zhaolian Wei
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Meishan Road, Hefei, 230000 China
- Assisted Reproductive Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Meishan Road, Hefei, 230000 China
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Affiliation(s)
- B. F. Mitchell
- Perinatal Research Centre, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Birgit Schmid
- Perinatal Research Centre, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Zhu B, Chen Y, Zhang H, Liu X, Guo SW. Resveratrol Reduces Myometrial Infiltration, Uterine Hyperactivity, and Stress Levels and Alleviates Generalized Hyperalgesia in Mice With Induced Adenomyosis. Reprod Sci 2015; 22:1336-49. [DOI: 10.1177/1933719115572479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Bo Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The People’s Hospital, Wenzhou, China
| | - Yumei Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The People’s Hospital, Wenzhou, China
| | - Hongping Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The People’s Hospital, Wenzhou, China
| | - Xishi Liu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Sun-Wei Guo
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine-Related Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Ravanos K, Dagklis T, Petousis S, Margioula-Siarkou C, Prapas Y, Prapas N. Factors implicated in the initiation of human parturition in term and preterm labor: a review. Gynecol Endocrinol 2015; 31:679-83. [PMID: 26303116 DOI: 10.3109/09513590.2015.1076783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
After accommodating the pregnancy for an average of 40 weeks, the uterus expels the fetus, the placenta and the membranes through the birth canal in a process named parturition. The absolute sequence of events that trigger and sustain human parturition are not yet fully clarified. Evidence suggests that spontaneous preterm and term labor seem to share a common inflammatory pathway. However, there are several other factors being involved in the initiation of human parturition. Placental corticotropin releasing hormone production seems to serve as a placental clock that might be set to ring earlier or later determining the duration of pregnancy and timing of labor. Estrogens do not cause contractions but their properties seem to capacitate uterus to coordinate and enhance contractions. Cytokines, prostaglandins, nitric oxide and steroids seem also to induce ripening by mediating remodeling of the extracellular matrix and collagen. Infection and microbe invasion resulting in chorioamnionitis also represents a common cause of early preterm labour. This review provides an overview of all these factors considered to be implicated in the initiation of human parturition.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Yannis Prapas
- a IAKENTRO, Infertility Treatment Center , Thessaloniki , Greece
| | - Nikolaos Prapas
- a IAKENTRO, Infertility Treatment Center , Thessaloniki , Greece
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Arrowsmith S, Wray S. Oxytocin: its mechanism of action and receptor signalling in the myometrium. J Neuroendocrinol 2014; 26:356-69. [PMID: 24888645 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 161] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2014] [Revised: 03/14/2014] [Accepted: 03/28/2014] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin is a nonapeptide hormone that has a central role in the regulation of parturition and lactation. In this review, we address oxytocin receptor (OTR) signalling and its role in the myometrium during pregnancy and in labour. The OTR belongs to the rhodopsin-type (Class 1) of the G-protein coupled receptor superfamily and is regulated by changes in receptor expression, receptor desensitisation and local changes in oxytocin concentration. Receptor activation triggers a number of signalling events to stimulate contraction, primarily by elevating intracellular calcium (Ca(2+) ). This includes inositol-tris-phosphate-mediated store calcium release, store-operated Ca(2+) entry and voltage-operated Ca(2+) entry. We discuss each mechanism in turn and also discuss Ca(2+) -independent mechanisms such as Ca(2+) sensitisation. Because oxytocin induces contraction in the myometrium, both the activation and the inhibition of its receptor have long been targets in the management of dysfunctional and preterm labours, respectively. We discuss current and novel OTR agonists and antagonists and their use and potential benefit in obstetric practice. In this regard, we highlight three clinical scenarios: dysfunctional labour, postpartum haemorrhage and preterm birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Arrowsmith
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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Chen Y, Zhu B, Zhang H, Liu X, Guo SW. Epigallocatechin-3-gallate reduces myometrial infiltration, uterine hyperactivity, and stress levels and alleviates generalized hyperalgesia in mice induced with adenomyosis. Reprod Sci 2013; 20:1478-91. [PMID: 23703534 DOI: 10.1177/1933719113488455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
In an effort to search for novel therapeutics for adenomyosis, we sought to determine whether treatment with epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) would suppress the myometrial infiltration, improve pain behavior, lower stress level, and reduce uterine contractility in a mice model of adenomyosis. Adenomyosis was induced in 28 female ICR mice neonatally dosed with tamoxifen, while another 12 (group C) were dosed with solvent only, which served as a blank control. Starting from 4 weeks after birth, hot plate test was administrated to all mice every 4 weeks. At the 16th week, all mice induced with adenomyosis were randomly divided into 3 groups: low-dose EGCG (5 mg/kg), high-dose EGCG (50 mg/kg), and untreated. Group C received no treatment. After 3 weeks of treatment, the hot plate test was administered again, a blood sample was taken to measure the plasma corticosterone level by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and then all mice were sacrificed. The depth of myometrial infiltration and uterine contractility were also evaluated. We found that the induction of adenomyosis resulted in progressive generalized hyperalgesia, along with elevated amplitude and frequency of uterine contractions as well as elevated plasma corticosterone levels. The EGCG treatment dose dependently suppressed myometrial infiltration, improved generalized hyperalgesia, reduced uterine contractility, and lowered plasma corticosterone levels. These results suggest that induced adenomyosis causes pain and elevates stress levels in mice. Uterine hyperactivity may contribute to dysmenorrhea in women with adenomyosis who might also have elevated stress level due to pain. The EGCG appears to be a promising compound for treating adenomyosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yumei Chen
- 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The People's Hospital, Wenzhou, China
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Guo SW, Mao X, Ma Q, Liu X. Dysmenorrhea and its severity are associated with increased uterine contractility and overexpression of oxytocin receptor (OTR) in women with symptomatic adenomyosis. Fertil Steril 2013; 99:231-240. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2012.08.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2012] [Revised: 08/07/2012] [Accepted: 08/19/2012] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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Barcena de Arellano ML, Gericke J, Reichelt U, Okuducu AF, Ebert AD, Chiantera V, Schneider A, Mechsner S. Immunohistochemical characterization of endometriosis-associated smooth muscle cells in human peritoneal endometriotic lesions. Hum Reprod 2011; 26:2721-30. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/der253] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
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Mao X, Wang Y, Carter AV, Zhen X, Guo SW. The Retardation of Myometrial Infiltration, Reduction of Uterine Contractility, and Alleviation of Generalized Hyperalgesia in Mice With Induced Adenomyosis by Levo-Tetrahydropalmatine (l-THP) and Andrographolide. Reprod Sci 2011; 18:1025-37. [DOI: 10.1177/1933719111404610] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoyan Mao
- Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuedong Wang
- Department of Statistics and Applied Probability, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | - Andrew V. Carter
- Department of Statistics and Applied Probability, University of California, Santa Barbara, CA, USA
| | - Xuechu Zhen
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmaceutical Science, Soochow University, Suzhou, China
| | - Sun-Wei Guo
- Shanghai OB/GYN Hospital and Shanghai College of Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Mechsner S, Grum B, Gericke C, Loddenkemper C, Dudenhausen JW, Ebert AD. Possible roles of oxytocin receptor and vasopressin-1α receptor in the pathomechanism of dysperistalsis and dysmenorrhea in patients with adenomyosis uteri. Fertil Steril 2010; 94:2541-6. [PMID: 20413116 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2010.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2009] [Revised: 12/17/2009] [Accepted: 03/01/2010] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the expression of oxytocin (OTR) and/or vasopressin (VP1αR) receptor in patients with and without adenomyosis uteri. DESIGN Retrospective nonrandomized study. SETTING University hospital endometriosis research center. PATIENT(S) Forty patients with histologically proven adenomyosis and 40 patients without adenomyosis who had undergone hysterectomy for dysmenorrhea, bleeding disorders, and fibroids. INTERVENTION(S) Immunohistochemical examination of both OTR and VP1αR expression in endometrium, myometrium, and adenomyotic lesions, and identification of smooth muscle cells using antibodies against OTR, VP1αR, and smooth muscle actin (sm-actin). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The immunoreactive score (IRS) was used for expression of OTR, VP1αR, and sm-actin. RESULT(S) Expression of OTR in epithelial cells of adenomyotic lesions and surrounding myometrial cells was detectable. VP1αR was expressed only in myometrial cells and blood vessels. Using a specific anti-sm-actin antibody, another spindle cell population was characterized to represent smooth muscle cells which are in direct contact with the adenomyotic stroma. Compared with the unaffected myometrium, the surrounding adenomyosis-associated myometrium overexpressed OTR and showed changes in morphology. In the uteri of patients with adenomyosis, the junctional zone was often seen to be quite fissured. CONCLUSION(S) In addition to the specific expression of VP1αR, OTR expression and morphologic changes in the myometrial architecture of uteri having adenomyosis support the hypothesis that dysperistalsis plays an essential role in the development of endometriosis and dysmenorrhea. In the near future, specific inhibition of this receptor might yield a promising treatment for therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia Mechsner
- Endometriosis Research Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Charité, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Berlin, Germany.
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Nie J, Liu X, Guo SW. Immunoreactivity of oxytocin receptor and transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 and its correlation with dysmenorrhea in adenomyosis. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2010; 202:346.e1-8. [PMID: 20096818 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2009.11.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2009] [Revised: 08/06/2009] [Accepted: 11/18/2009] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We sought to investigate the expression and localization of oxytocin receptor (OTR) and transient receptor potential vanilloid type 1 (TRPV1) in women with and without adenomyosis. STUDY DESIGN Ectopic and homologous eutopic endometrium from 50 women with adenomyosis and endometrium from 18 women without adenomyosis were used for immunohistochemical analysis of OTR and TRPV1. Microscopic evaluation assessed the presence and localization of OTR and TRPV1 throughout the menstrual cycle in both eutopic endometrial and endometriotic tissues of women with adenomyosis and compared them with normal endometrium. RESULTS Compared with normal endometrium, immunoreactivity of OTR and TRPV1 were significantly increased in ectopic endometrium. Both OTR and TRPV1 immunoreactivity were positively correlated with the severity of dysmenorrhea and found to be significant predicators for dysmenorrhea severity. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that OTR and TRPV1 may be involved in dysmenorrhea and its severity in adenomyosis and may be potential therapeutic targets.
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Liedman R, Hansson SR, Igidbashian S, Akerlund M. Myometrial oxytocin receptor mRNA concentrations at preterm and term delivery - the influence of external oxytocin. Gynecol Endocrinol 2009; 25:188-93. [PMID: 19347709 DOI: 10.1080/09513590802573213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The hormonal system for induction of term and preterm labour is not fully understood. Therefore, we investigated myometrial gene expressions for neurohypophyseal hormones and their receptors, prostaglandin F(2alpha) and ovarian steroid receptors in women delivered by Caesarean section. Myometrial tissue for real time PCR was collected from 39 women delivered at term before and after the onset of labour and preterm. Women delivered electively at term had significantly higher oxytocin receptor mRNA expressions (2.52 +/- 0.37 oxytocin receptor/actin; median +/- SEM) than those delivered with ongoing labour at term (1.01 +/- 0.34; p = 0.015) and those at preterm (1.08 +/- 0.25; p = 0.004). Sub-analyses revealed that the difference at term pregnancies solely was related to patients receiving oxytocin during labour (p = 0.007). These patients had higher oxytocin peptide mRNA levels than those without labour at term (p = 0.009). PGF(2alpha) receptor mRNA concentrations were 27.80 +/- 3.55, 11.46 +/- 2.87 and 19.54 +/- 5.52 PGF receptor/actin, respectively, for the groups. Women without labour at term had higher concentration than those with labour (p = 0.005). Our results suggest that oxytocin, its receptor and the PGF(2alpha) receptor are involved in the regulation of labour through a paracrine mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ragner Liedman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Lund, Lund, Sweden.
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Terzidou V. Preterm labour. Biochemical and endocrinological preparation for parturition. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2007; 21:729-56. [PMID: 17616441 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2007.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Preterm delivery is a common obstetric problem occurring in about 1 in 10 of all births. Preterm babies have a high risk of morbidity and mortality. Such births account for 75% of all major neonatal problems. At the other end of the spectrum, prolonged pregnancy is also a subject of concern because it too is associated with increased fetal morbidity and mortality. Despite extensive research, the mechanisms that control the length of human pregnancy and signal the onset of labour have not been fully determined. This chapter will discuss basic principles in the biology of parturition and the regulation of contraction-associated proteins including the oxytocin receptor. The major pathways regulating contractions and the transcriptional regulation of the main genes that are known to be involved in the onset of labour and parturition will be examined. Some new potentially therapeutic strategies for the biochemical management of preterm labour will be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasso Terzidou
- Parturition Research Group, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN, UK.
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Pierzynski P, Reinheimer TM, Kuczynski W. Oxytocin antagonists may improve infertility treatment. Fertil Steril 2007; 88:213.e19-22. [PMID: 17481622 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2006.09.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2006] [Revised: 09/11/2006] [Accepted: 09/11/2006] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To confirm the improvement of uterine receptivity following administration of oxytocin and vasopressin V1A antagonist atosiban. DESIGN Case report. SETTING Private reproductive medicine center. PATIENT(S) A 42-year-old woman with a history of 15 years' infertility and seven failed in vitro fertilization/embryo transfer (IVF-ET) attempts. INTERVENTION(S) Atosiban (mixed vasopressin V1A/oxytocin antagonist registered for the treatment of imminent premature birth) was administered on the 14th day of endometrial synchronization for oocyte donation. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Uterine contractile activity (component of uterine receptivity) and success of treatment of infertility. RESULT(S) Intense spontaneous uterine contractility was visualized by transvaginal sonography. After 1 hour of intravenous infusion of atosiban, a repeated scan showed a significant decrease in contractile activity (11 vs 7 contractions per 4 minutes, respectively). The ET was performed immediately after, and the infusion of atosiban continued for the next 2 hours. The treatment decreased the uterine contractile activity and resulted in successful embryo implantation and a normal twin diamniotic pregnancy. CONCLUSION(S) Atosiban may improve uterine receptivity during ET and may increase success rates of advanced infertility treatment procedures.
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Friebe-Hoffmann U, Baston DM, Hoffmann TK, Chiao JP, Rauk PN. The influence of interleukin-1beta on oxytocin signalling in primary cells of human decidua. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 142:78-85. [PMID: 17428554 DOI: 10.1016/j.regpep.2007.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2006] [Revised: 01/05/2007] [Accepted: 01/31/2007] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Oxytocin (OT) and its corresponding receptor (OTR), synthesized within the pregnant uterus, play a key role in the process of (preterm) labor as part of a paracrine system that regulates symmetrical contractility. In the setting of intrauterine infection, a major cause of preterm labour and birth, decidua serves as a major source of cytokine production. The present study evaluates the time-dependent effect [0-24 h] of the inflammatory cytokine Interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta) treatment on OT signalling and OT stimulated prostaglandin release in primary cultures of human decidua. STUDY DESIGN Primary cultures of human decidua (n=6) were treated with IL-1beta [5 ng/ml] for 0-24h and or indomethacin [100 microM]--an inhibitor of the prostaglandin synthesis--for 0-24 h or for 24 h. OT peptide expression, OTR binding, Inositol triphosphate production (IP(3)), and arachidonic acid (AA) as well as prostaglandin (PGE(2)) release were measured. RESULTS IL-1beta transiently reduced cytoplasmic OT peptide at 4-6 h of IL-1beta incubation, while its secretion into the media was increased after 6 h of stimulation. The later was completely blocked by indomethacin. A decrease in OTR mRNA expression and a loss of OTR binding were detected after 8 h and 16 h of IL-1beta treatment, respectively. IL-1beta also decreased IP(3) production and AA release, but significantly enhanced OT mediated PGE(2) production. This effect was completely suppressed by the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibitor NS-398. CONCLUSION Our data suggest, that IL-1beta indirectly increases OT secretion in primary cultures of human decidua in a time dependent fashion through the production of prostaglandins through COX-2 and that this increase in OT peptide may secondarily down-regulate the OTR and its signalling cascade. These findings might explain the poor effectiveness of oxytocin receptor antagonists as tocolytic agents in the setting of intrauterine infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- U Friebe-Hoffmann
- University of Düsseldorf, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Moorenstr. 5, D-40225 Düsseldorf, Germany.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Snegovskikh
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
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Mohr E, Meyerhof W, Richter D. The hypothalamic hormone oxytocin: from gene expression to signal transduction. Rev Physiol Biochem Pharmacol 2005; 121:31-48. [PMID: 1336619 DOI: 10.1007/bfb0033193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- E Mohr
- Institut für Zellbiochemie und klinische Neurobiologie, UKE, Universität Hamburg, FRG
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Mechsner S, Bartley J, Loddenkemper C, Salomon DS, Starzinski-Powitz A, Ebert AD. Oxytocin receptor expression in smooth muscle cells of peritoneal endometriotic lesions and ovarian endometriotic cysts. Fertil Steril 2005; 83 Suppl 1:1220-31. [PMID: 15831296 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2004.11.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2004] [Revised: 11/03/2004] [Accepted: 11/03/2004] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the expression of oxytocin receptor (OTR) in peritoneal and ovarian endometriotic lesions. DESIGN Retrospective nonrandomized study. SETTING University hospital endometriosis research center. PATIENT(S) Premenopausal women with histologically confirmed endometriosis were selected. Peritoneal endometriotic lesions (n = 120); ovarian endometriotic cysts (n = 40); peritoneal biopsies, distant from the endometriotic lesion (n = 55); and unaffected peritoneal biopsies from patients without endometriosis (n = 11) were obtained. Hysterectomy specimens from patients without endometriosis and/or adenomyosis were used for controls (n = 10). INTERVENTION(S) Histopathological examination of peritoneal and ovarian specimens for OTR expression and identification of smooth muscle cells by immunohistochemistry staining with antibodies against OTR and smooth muscle actin. In addition, Western blot analysis, double-immunofluorescence, and in vitro studies with primary cell cultures have been performed. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Comparison of the immunoreactive score of the OTR and smooth muscle actin expression with the smooth muscle content in peritoneum with and without endometriosis. RESULT(S) In the epithelial cells of endometriotic lesions, we could demonstrate a high OTR expression. The stromal cells were OTR negative with the exception of some single cells. By using a monoclonal anti-smooth muscle actin antibody, these cells could be identified as intrastromal OTR-positive smooth muscle cells. The peritoneum of women with endometriosis shows a significantly higher smooth muscle content than the peritoneum of women without endometriosis. There were no significant differences between the smooth muscle content of active or inactive lesions and the stage of disease. CONCLUSION(S) Oxytocin receptor is expressed in smooth muscle cells and epithelial cells of peritoneal endometriotic lesions and ovarian endometriotic cysts. The inhibition of OTR by specific inhibitors might be a useful approach for the treatment of endometriosis-associated pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia Mechsner
- Endometriosis Research Center Berlin, Department of Gynecology, Charité, Campus Benjamin Franklin, Hindenburgdamm 30, 12200 Berlin, Germany
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Schellenberg JC, Stewart AW, Pliska V. Uterine contractile response to the graded infusion of oxytocin in guinea pigs near term. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2003; 189:201-7. [PMID: 12861163 DOI: 10.1067/mob.2003.438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Myometrial oxytocin binding characteristics do not change near term in guinea pigs. We tested the hypothesis that the uterine contractile response to oxytocin does not change near term. STUDY DESIGN Chronically instrumented guinea pigs were given graded infusions of oxytocin (n = 19 animals) or saline solution (n = 4 animals) on days 58, 60, and 62 and then daily until delivery (term, 68 days). Uterine contractile response was assessed by the area of the quasi-integrated electromyogram. Concentrations of 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-prostaglandin F(2)(alpha) were measured in maternal plasma. RESULTS The uterine contractile response to oxytocin increased with advancing gestation (P =.007, random coefficients model) and labor (P =.005). Plasma concentrations of 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-prostaglandin F(2)(alpha) increased during oxytocin infusion (P <.022 vs saline solution infusion). CONCLUSION The uterine contractile response to oxytocin increases during the 1 to 2 weeks before term in guinea pigs, despite stable myometrial oxytocin receptor density. Oxytocin stimulates the production of prostaglandin F(2)(alpha).
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean-Claude Schellenberg
- Research Centre for Reproductive Medicine at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
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Cassoni P, Fulcheri E, Carcangiu ML, Stella A, Deaglio S, Bussolati G. Oxytocin receptors in human adenocarcinomas of the endometrium: presence and biological significance. J Pathol 2000; 190:470-7. [PMID: 10699997 DOI: 10.1002/(sici)1096-9896(200003)190:4<470::aid-path550>3.0.co;2-g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin receptors (OTRs) are expressed in endometrial cells and oxytocin (OT) participates in endometrial functions. In cancers derived from other OT target tissues, such as breast and neural tissues, the expression of OTRs and the antiproliferative effect of OT on cancer cells has been previously observed. This study was therefore designed to search for OTR expression and the OT effect in endometrial carcinomas. To demonstrate the presence and the location of OTRs and OTR mRNA immunocytochemical, reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and in situ hybridization (ISH) procedures were employed in a series of human adenocarcinomas of the endometrium. Using an anti-OTR monoclonal antibody (IF3), OTRs were demonstrated in the large majority of endometrial carcinomas (82%), with a pattern of positivity varying from diffuse to focal, according to tumour differentiation. The OTR gene was demonstrated in 78% of the cases by RT-PCR and its presence was confirmed in selected cases by ISH. Moreover, in a human endometrial carcinoma cell line (COLO 684) OTR was demonstrated by immunofluorescence and RT-PCR and it was observed that OT treatment (10(-11)-10(-7) M) significantly inhibited cell proliferation. Neither toxic effects nor apoptosis were induced by OT treatment. The addition of an inhibitor of protein kinase A (PKA) to the culture medium abolished the antiproliferative effect of OT, suggesting that cAMP via PKA could be the intracellular mediator of the OT effect, as previously observed in breast and neural tumours. In conclusion, this study presents evidence of OTR expression in human endometrial carcinomas and of an OT antiproliferative effect on human endometrial cancer cells in vitro. It is further suggested that OT and OTR may be involved in the regulation of endometrial cells, not only in physiological conditions but also in a neoplastic context.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Cassoni
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Oncology, University of Torino, Italy
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29
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Schellenberg JC, Pliska V, Lutz RA. Oxytocin receptors in guinea pig myometrium near term and during labor. Biol Reprod 2000; 62:427-31. [PMID: 10642583 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod62.2.427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin receptors in myometrium of women, rats, and rabbits rise markedly before the onset of labor, suggesting a role in the initiation of labor. In guinea pigs, a previous study reported no such rise by one-point determination of oxytocin binding. The purpose of this study was to use a more rigorous method to determine whether the binding characteristics of myometrial oxytocin receptors change in relation to labor in guinea pigs. Competitive binding studies were carried out in microsomes from inner and outer myometrium between 42 days of gestation and labor. Binding to analogs was also tested. Data were analyzed with affinity spectra and LIGAND. Oxytocin bound to one site with a dissociation constant of 6.3 +/- 0.65 x 10(-9) M. Binding capacity was 1.0 +/- 0.1 x 10(-12) mol/mg protein. The Hill coefficient was near unity. No significant changes occurred with gestation or labor in dissociation constant, binding capacity, or Hill coefficient (all P >/= 0.2, nested ANOVA). Binding capacity was higher in the outer than in the inner layer (1.2 +/- 0.2 vs. 0.8 +/- 0.1 x 10(-12) mol/mg protein, P = 0.02), but the dissociation constants were similar. Differences existed in the dissociation constants of the analogs tested. The main conclusion is that oxytocin receptors are unlikely to have a regulatory role in the initiation of labor in guinea pigs.
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Affiliation(s)
- J C Schellenberg
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Research Centre for Reproductive Medicine, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
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Chaud MA, Franchi AM, Beron de Astrada M, Gimeno MF. Role of nitric oxide on oxytocin-evoked contractions and prostaglandin synthesis in isolated pregnant rat uterus. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 1997; 57:323-9. [PMID: 9384523 DOI: 10.1016/s0952-3278(97)90551-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Uterine contractions elicited by oxytocin (OT), possibly linked with uterus prostaglandin (PG) release, are involved in the final pathway of labor. It is known that nitric oxide (NO) may contribute to the maintenance of uterine contractile quiescence during gestation. Therefore in this study the effect of the inhibition of NO synthase (NOS), with N-monomethyl L-arginine (L-NMMA), on the ability of OT to stimulate uterine contractions and PG synthesis was investigated in isolated rat uterus at days 13 and 21 of pregnancy. L-NMMA did not modify the frequency and the force of contractions elicited by OT at day 13. On day 21 the frequency of contractions evoked by OT were better sustained in the presence of L-NMMA. PGs were not affected by OT on day 13. OT stimulated PGF2alpha on day 21 when NOS had been inhibited with L-NMMA, but not in the absence of L-NMMA. NOS activity was stimulated by OT at day 21 of gestation. In summary these findings indicate that near term NO can regulate OT PGF2alpha induced contractions and PG synthesis in isolated pregnant rat uterus.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Chaud
- Centro de Estudios Farmacológicos y Botánicos, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Cientificas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Poyser NL. The control of prostaglandin production by the endometrium in relation to luteolysis and menstruation. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 1995; 53:147-95. [PMID: 7480081 DOI: 10.1016/0952-3278(95)90115-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 113] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Oestradiol acting on a progesterone-primed uterus stimulates prostaglandin (PG) F2 alpha synthesis by the endometrium. In some species (notably the sheep, cow and goat) oxytocin released from the ovary also forms part of the physiological stimulus for increased endometrial PGF2 alpha production. The corpus luteum contains high concentrations (> 1 microgram/g tissue) of this peptide in these species. The intracellular mechanisms by which these three hormones control endometrial PGF2 alpha synthesis and release are far from clear. Oxytocin stimulates the synthesis of inositol phosphates and diacylglycerol in the endometrium of some species, but whether this pathway is involved in endometrial PGF2 alpha synthesis is still open to question. There is evidence that increased endometrial PGF2 alpha synthesis is dependent upon increased endometrial protein synthesis but, apart from the recorded effects of steroid hormones on the concentrations of phospholipase A2, prostaglandin H synthase and oxytocin receptors, it is not known what other endometrial proteins are involved. Some disorders of menstruation are associated with abnormal PG production by the endometrium, but the reasons for this abnormality are not clear. During early pregnancy an increase in PGF2 alpha synthesis by the endometrium is prevented, except in the pig where the PGF2 alpha produced is directed from the venous drainage to the uterine lumen. In those species in which endometrial PGF2 alpha synthesis is dependent upon oxytocin secreted by the ovary, the conceptus secretes an interferon-tau (previously named trophoblast protein-1) which prevents oestradiol and oxytocin acting on a progesterone-primed uterus from stimulating endometrial PGF2 alpha synthesis. The identities of the factors produced by the conceptus which prevent endometrial PGF2 alpha synthesis during early pregnancy in other species are not known, although it is clear that they are not interferons.
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Affiliation(s)
- N L Poyser
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Edinburgh Medical School, UK
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32
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Schellenberg JC. The effect of oxytocin receptor blockade on parturition in guinea pigs. J Clin Invest 1995; 95:13-9. [PMID: 7814606 PMCID: PMC295358 DOI: 10.1172/jci117629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
The mechanism of the onset of labor is unknown in humans and guinea pigs. Contrary to most other species, progesterone withdrawal appears not to precede the onset of labor. To elucidate the role of oxytocin in the onset and maintenance of labor, guinea pigs were fitted with vascular catheters, an intraabdominal pressure catheter and an array of uterine electromyogram electrodes. An oxytocin antagonist (des-Gly9-[D-Trp2,Thr4,Orn8]dC6-oxytocin, 20 micrograms/kg per h, n = 11) or saline solution (n = 12) was infused starting on day 66 of gestation (term is 69 d). Oxytocin receptor blockade resulted in decreased uterine activity and a prolonged expulsive phase (second stage) of labor. Fetal delivery was delayed and fetal mortality was increased. The onset of the expulsive phase of labor was delayed but maximum uterine activity occurred in time together with a timely change in uterine electromyogram activity from a prepartum to a postpartum pattern following an unaltered progressive increase in baseline uterine activity. This indicates that oxytocin is requisite for the normal progress of the first and second stage of labor, but has no involvement in the mechanism of the onset and the timing of labor.
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Affiliation(s)
- J C Schellenberg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Auckland, New Zealand
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Sun MY, Sullivan MH, Elder MG. An endogenous inhibitor of prostaglandin synthesis in human decidua. PROSTAGLANDINS 1994; 48:69-79. [PMID: 7991776 DOI: 10.1016/0090-6980(94)90085-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Human first trimester decidual tissue has been reported to contain an inhibitor of cyclo-oxygenase enzyme, but a careful reading of the literature indicates that the inhibitor may be human albumin. Our own studies also showed that high levels of albumin were present in samples from homogenised decidual tissues. We therefore digested the tissue to obtain isolated cells and washed them extensively to minimise contamination with blood. Homogenates of such cells did not bind arachidonic acid, and inhibited cyclo-oxygenase enzyme-1 (COX-1) activity. The cellular factor inhibited COX-1 at concentrations of 60-100 micrograms protein/ml, and was therefore more potent than human albumin (0.5-2.0 mg/ml). The inhibitory activity was lost after heat treatment (100 degrees C for 10 mins) and after digestion with trypsin or papain, but was resistant to mercaptoethanol and urea. Preliminary data indicated that the protein had a molecular weight > 30 kD.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Y Sun
- R.P.M.S. Institute of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hammersmith Hospital, London, England
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34
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Affiliation(s)
- G C Liggins
- Research Centre in Reproductive Medicine, University of Auckland, New Zealand
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35
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Boone DL, Currie WD, Leung PC. Arachidonic acid and cell signalling in the ovary and placenta. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 1993; 48:79-87. [PMID: 8424126 DOI: 10.1016/0952-3278(93)90013-m] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Arachidonic acid (AA) and its metabolites make up a diverse group of signalling molecules important to mediation of metabolic and endocrine function of ovarian and placental cell membranes. This paper reviews recent literature examining AA and eicosanoid involvement in the functional dynamics of follicular development, ovulation and corpus luteum function. The putative roles of AA metabolites in establishment and maintenance of pregnancy are reviewed with reference to decidualization, trophoblast invasion and implantation, maintenance of perfusion of the feto-placental unit and lipid transfer. Finally, recent evidence implicating AA metabolism in mediation of enzyme activity following hormone-receptor coupling within various cells types comprising the placental membranes is reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- D L Boone
- University of British Columbia, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vancouver, Canada
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Ishihara O, Khan H, Sullivan MH, Elder MG. Interleukin-1 beta stimulates decidual stromal cell cyclo-oxygenase enzyme and prostaglandin production. PROSTAGLANDINS 1992; 44:43-52. [PMID: 1641502 DOI: 10.1016/0090-6980(92)90106-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The cytokine interleukin-1 (IL-1 beta) increased prostaglandin production by decidual stromal cells in culture in a time and dose dependent manner. Optimum conditions for stimulation were found to be for 24 hours at a concentration of 100 pg IL-1 beta/ml. An apparent increase in cyclo-oxygenase enzyme synthesis accompanied the increase in prostaglandin production, and both changes were inhibited by the protein synthesis inhibitor cycloheximide. This implicates protein synthesis in the stimulatory effects of IL-1 beta, which may be mediated through the increase in cyclo-oxygenase enzyme. A pre-incubation period of 72 hours was found to be necessary to observe the stimulatory effect of IL-1 beta on prostaglandin production, but this did not seem to be due to any change in the sensitivity of the cells to IL-1 beta; the increase in the number of cyclo-oxygenase positive cells was the same if IL-1 beta was added on day 1, day 2 or day 3 of culture, even though prostaglandin production was not stimulated on day 1 or day 2. Cycloheximide increased prostaglandin production on the first two days of culture and had no effect on the third day of culture. This was interpreted as indicating that a factor inhibiting cyclo-oxygenase activity was synthesised during the initial period of culture, which prevented any increase in prostaglandin production following the increase in enzyme synthesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- O Ishihara
- Institute of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Royal Postgraduate Medical School, Hammersmith Hospital, London
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Abstract
We studied the beta-adrenergic system in the human decidua and its effect on prostaglandin E2 and F2a release from dispersed decidual cells in culture. Beta-adrenergic receptors in decidual membranes were partially characterized using (+)[125I]HYP. Specific binding was demonstrated with maximum binding capacity (Bmax) of 70 +/- 10.6 fmol/mg and an affinity (KD) of 20.85 +/- 1.86 pmol. cAMP dependent phosphoproteins in decidual cytosol were also identified. Two phosphoproteins of M(r) 42,000 and 22,000 were seen in all preparations. Three others (M(r) 39,000, 23,000 and 21,000) were identified in only some of the preparations. Phosphoproteins of similar M(r) to those seen in cytosol prepared from decidual homogenates were also identified in cytosol of cultured decidual cells. Phosphorylation of the 42,000 M(r) and 22,000 M(r) proteins was maximal (3.04 +/- 0.35-fold and 5.7 +/- 0.68-fold) with 10(-6) M cAMP. Cultured decidual cells produced prostaglandin E2 and F2a which increased in a dose-dependent manner in response to dbcAMP, forskolin or isoproterenol. The decidua contains an intact beta-adrenergic system that, when activated, is capable of phosphorylating specific proteins and modulating prostaglandin release.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Hassan
- Department of Pediatrics, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio 44109
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Chandra K, Gupta I, Dhawan V, Ganguly NK. Prostaglandin-F2 alpha levels in normal saline-induced mid-trimester abortions. Contraception 1991; 44:99-106. [PMID: 1893705 DOI: 10.1016/0010-7824(91)90110-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
In 20 mid-trimester abortion seekers induced by extra-amniotic instillation of normal saline, serial estimation of prostaglandin F2 alpha (PGF2 alpha) in the plasma and extra-ovular space were carried out. It was observed that PGF2 alpha was undetectable in both plasma and the extra-ovular space prior to the onset of induction, and was first detected in the extra-ovular fluid 2 hours after the onset of induction, prior to oxytocin infusion. In the subsequent samples, the prostaglandin concentration in plasma as well as in the extra-ovular fluid was found to rise, with levels in the latter showing a more significant rise with time as compared to the former. Thus, this study confirms the hypothesis that the mechanism of action of extra-ovular normal saline instillation in mid-trimester termination of pregnancy is the result of separation of fetal membranes from the uterine wall, leading to the release of prostaglandins which, in turn, causes uterine contractions leading to abortion.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Chandra
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
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Khan H, Ishihara O, Elder MG, Sullivan MH. A comparison of two populations of decidual cells by immunocytochemistry and prostaglandin production. HISTOCHEMISTRY 1991; 96:149-52. [PMID: 1917571 DOI: 10.1007/bf00315985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The decidua has been implicated in the control of human labour, particularly through changes in prostaglandin production, but this tissue contains a number of different cell types. A density gradient system was used to obtain two populations of cells from term human decidua, and these populations were characterised. The more dense cells (population B) was a mixed population, predominantly macrophages (80%), but small numbers of T- and B-lymphocytes were also present, as identified by immunocytochemistry. Most of these cell types also contained detectable levels of cyclooxygenase enzyme. The less-dense cell population (population A) did not contain significant numbers of the above cell types and released prolactin, suggesting that they were decidual stromal cells. This preparation of decidual stromal cells may be of use in defining the functions of these cells in labour.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Khan
- Institute of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Royal Postgraduate Medical School, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK
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40
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Franchi AM, Chaud M, Faletti A, Bassi D, Gimeno MA, Gimeno AL. Oxytocin enhances the basal release of uterine prostaglandin F2 alpha, but not that of PGE1, or of PGE2, and changes the metabolism of exogenous arachidonate, favouring the formation of prostaglandin F2 alpha and 5-HETE. Relationships with its uterotonic action and modulation by estradiol. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids 1990; 40:203-9. [PMID: 2402524 DOI: 10.1016/0952-3278(90)90099-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
We attempted to explore possible mechanism(s) subserving the influence of oxytocin on uterine motility by studying the action of the hormone on: 1) the contractile activity of isolated rat uteri in the presence or absence of indomethacin; 2) the synthesis and release of prostaglandins (PGs) into the solution incubating the uterine tissue as well as the metabolism of labelled arachidonic acid; 3) the uptake of 45Ca2+ by uterine strips. The experiments were bone with uterine preparations isolated from spayed rats treated or not with 17-beta-estradiol. The values of isometric developed tension (IDT) and of frequency of contractions (FC) induced by oxytocin in uterine strips isolated from spayed and spayed-estrogenized rats, were not modified by indomethacin at 10(-6) M. On the other hand, uterine strips from untreated spayed rats, release into the incubating medium approximately equal amounts of PGE1, PGE2 and PGF2 alpha. The in vitro presence of oxytocin (50 mU/ml) increased significantly (p 0.05) the output of PGF 2 alpha without changing the release of PGE1 or PGE2. Uteri from spayed rats injected prior to sacrifice with 17-beta-estradiol released significantly less PGE1 and PGE2 (p less than 0.005) than preparations from non-injected animals, whereas the output of PGF2 alpha in the suspending solution remained unchanged. Following estrogenization the addition of oxytocin to preparations obtained from spayed-estrogenized rats also increased the output of uterine PGF2 alpha (p less than 0.001) without changing that of PGs E1 or E2.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
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Affiliation(s)
- A M Franchi
- Centro de Estudios Farmacológicos y de Principios Naturales (CEFAPRIN), Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Affiliation(s)
- S Lundin-Schiller
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City 84132
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Turnbull AC, Bernal AL. Authors' reply. BJOG 1988. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1471-0528.1988.tb06834.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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