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Zambuto SG, Kolluru SS, Hamdaoui A, Mascot AM, Sutcliffe SS, Lowder JL, Oyen ML. Vaginal Tissue Engineering via Gelatin-Elastin Fiber-Reinforced Hydrogels. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.09.09.611932. [PMID: 39314486 PMCID: PMC11419003 DOI: 10.1101/2024.09.09.611932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/25/2024]
Abstract
The vagina is a fibromuscular tube-shaped organ spanning from the hymenal ring to the cervix that plays critical roles in menstruation, pregnancy, and female sexual health. Vaginal tissue constituents, including cells and extracellular matrix components, contribute to tissue structure, function, and prevention of injury. However, much microstructural function remains unknown, including how the fiber-cell and cell-cell interactions influence macromechanical properties. A deeper understanding of these interactions will provide critical information needed to reduce and prevent vaginal injuries. Our objectives for this work herein are to first engineer a suite of biomaterials for vaginal tissue engineering and second to characterize the performance of these biomaterials in the vaginal microenvironment. We successfully created fiber-reinforced hydrogels of gelatin-elastin electrospun fibers infiltrated with gelatin methacryloyl hydrogels. These composites recapitulate vaginal material properties, including stiffness, and are compatible with the vaginal microenvironment: biocompatible with primary vaginal epithelial cells and in acidic conditions. This work significantly advances progress in vaginal tissue engineering by developing novel materials and developing a state-of-the-art tissue engineered vagina.
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Wang Y, Wen Y, Kim K, Wu H, Zhang J, Dobberfuhl AD, Chen B. Functional outcome of the anterior vaginal wall in a pelvic surgery injury rat model after treatment with stem cell-derived progenitors of smooth muscle cells. Stem Cell Res Ther 2024; 15:291. [PMID: 39256865 PMCID: PMC11389472 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-024-03900-3] [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: 04/01/2024] [Accepted: 08/26/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Stem-cell-derived therapy is a promising option for tissue regeneration. Human iPSC-derived progenitors of smooth muscle cells (pSMCs) exhibit limited proliferation and differentiation, which minimizes the risk of tumor formation while restoring smooth muscle cells (SMCs). Up to 29% of women suffer from recurrence of vaginal prolapse after prolapse surgery. Therefore, there is a need for therapies that can restore vaginal function. SMCs contribute to vaginal tone and contractility. We sought to examine whether human pSMCs can restore vaginal function in a rat model. METHODS Female immunocompromised RNU rats were divided into 5 groups: intact controls (n = 12), VSHAM (surgery + saline injection, n = 35), and three cell-injection groups (surgery + cell injection using pSMCs from three patients, n = 14/cell line). The surgery to induce vaginal injury was analogous to prolapse surgery. Menopause was induced by surgical ovariectomy. The vagina, urethra, bladder were harvested 10 weeks after surgery (5 weeks after cell injection). Organ bath myography was performed to evaluate the contractile function of the vagina, and smooth muscle thickness was examined by tissue immunohistochemistry. Collagen I, collagen III, and elastin mRNA and protein expressions in tissues were assessed. RESULTS Vaginal smooth muscle contractions induced by carbachol and KCl in the cell-injection groups were significantly greater than those in the VSHAM group. Collagen I protein expression in the vagina of the cell-injections groups was significantly higher than in the VSHAM group. Vaginal elastin protein expression was similar between the cell-injection and VSHAM groups. In the urethra, gene expression levels of collagen I, III, and elastin were all significantly greater in the cell-injection groups than in the VSHAM group. Collagen I, III, and elastin protein expression of the urethra did not show a consistent trend between cell-injection groups and the VSHAM group. CONCLUSIONS Human iPSC-derived pSMCs transplantation appears to be associated with improved contractile function of the surgically injured vagina in a rat model. This is accompanied by changes in extracellular protein expression the vagina and urethra. These observations support further efforts in the translation of pSMCs into a treatment for regenerating the surgically injured vagina in women who suffer recurrent prolapse after surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiting Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University, Stanford, USA
| | - Yan Wen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University, Stanford, USA.
- , Palo Alto, USA.
| | - Kayla Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University, Stanford, USA
| | - Hugo Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University, Stanford, USA
| | - Jerry Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University, Stanford, USA
| | - Amy D Dobberfuhl
- Department of Urology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Bertha Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University, Stanford, USA
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White SE, Karbasion N, Snider JC, Florian-Rodriguez M, Bersi MR, Miller KS. Remodeling of murine vaginal smooth muscle function with reproductive age and elastic fiber disruption. Acta Biomater 2024; 175:186-198. [PMID: 38151068 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2023.12.035] [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: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/29/2023]
Abstract
Advanced maternal age during pregnancy is associated with increased risk of vaginal tearing during delivery and maladaptive postpartum healing. Although the underlying mechanisms of age-related vaginal injuries are not fully elucidated, changes in vaginal microstructure may contribute. Smooth muscle cells promote the contractile nature of the vagina and contribute to pelvic floor stability. While menopause is associated with decreased vaginal smooth muscle content, whether contractile changes occur before the onset of menopause remains unknown. Therefore, the first objective of this study was to quantify the active mechanical behavior of the murine vagina with age. Further, aging is associated with decreased vaginal elastin content. As such, the second objective was to determine if elastic fiber disruption alters vaginal contractility. Vaginal samples from mice aged 2-14 months were used in maximum contractility experiments and biaxial extension-inflation protocols. To evaluate the role of elastic fibers with age, half of the vaginal samples were randomly allocated to enzymatic elastic fiber disruption. Contractile potential decreased and vaginal material stiffness increased with age. These age-related changes in smooth muscle function may be due, in part, to changes in microstructural composition or contractile gene expression. Furthermore, elastic fiber disruption had a diminished effect on smooth muscle contractility in older mice. This suggests a decreased functional role of elastic fibers with age. Quantifying the age-dependent mechanical contribution of smooth muscle cells and elastic fibers to vaginal properties provides a first step towards better understanding how age-related changes in vaginal structure may contribute to tissue integrity and healing. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Advanced maternal age at the time of pregnancy is linked to increased risks of vaginal tearing during delivery, postpartum hemorrhaging, and the development of pelvic floor disorders. While the underlying causes of increased vaginal injuries with age and associated pathologies remain unclear, changes in vaginal microstructure, such as elastic fibers and smooth muscle cells, may contribute. Menopause is associated with fragmented elastic fibers and decreased smooth muscle content; however, how reproductive aging affects changes in the vaginal composition and the mechanical properties remains unknown. Quantifying the mechanical contribution of smooth muscle cells and elastic fibers to vaginal properties with age will advance understanding of the potential structural causes of age-related changes to tissue integrity and healing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shelby E White
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Niyousha Karbasion
- Department of Mechanical Engineering & Materials Science, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - J Caleb Snider
- Department of Mechanical Engineering & Materials Science, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Maria Florian-Rodriguez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Matthew R Bersi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering & Materials Science, Washington University in St. Louis, St. Louis, MO, USA
| | - Kristin S Miller
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA; Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX, USA; Department of Bioengineering, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX, USA.
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da Silva Dias Babinski M, Pires LAS, Lopes EM, Fonseca A, Manaia JHM, Babinski MA. Morphological changes in the anterior vaginal wall caused by aging: a scanning electron microscopy study. Int Urogynecol J 2023; 34:2737-2741. [PMID: 37436435 DOI: 10.1007/s00192-023-05598-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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS Collagen is a protein that confers robustness and resilience to several tissues. In the female reproductive system, collagen plays a critical role in maintaining the health and function of the vaginal walls. Aging leads to collagen reduction, which may cause vaginal dryness, irritation, and prolapse. We aim to analyze the structure and profile of collagen in the anterior vaginal wall of healthy pre-menopausal (pre-M) and post-menopausal (post-M) women under a scanning electron microscope (SEM). METHODS Fragments of the anterior vaginal wall were collected and processed for light and scanning electron microscopy. Histological preparations were performed at first with Weigert's resorcin-fuchsin stain. Decellularized preparations were conducted, and the specimens were placed under an SEM to allow observation of the 3D organization of collagen. RESULTS Decellularized preparations of the pre-M specimens showed a vaginal wall with an irregular subepithelial layer, organized with ECM projections. The subepithelium evidenced the network of collagen fibrils, which seemed to support the epithelium as a basal layer. In specimens of post-M, a fusion of a network of fibrils from different direction axes was evidenced, with plate formation observed in the subepithelial plane, disfiguring the structural organization of fibrils. CONCLUSIONS Older specimens showed a remodeling of collagen organization in comparison with younger samples of the anterior vaginal wall.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monique da Silva Dias Babinski
- Experimental Morphology Research Unit, Morphology Department, Fluminense Federal University, Av. Prof. Hernani Mello, 101 24.210-150, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Medical Sciences Post Graduation Program, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Lucas Alves Sarmento Pires
- Experimental Morphology Research Unit, Morphology Department, Fluminense Federal University, Av. Prof. Hernani Mello, 101 24.210-150, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
- Medical Sciences Post Graduation Program, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| | - Evandro Mattos Lopes
- Experimental Morphology Research Unit, Morphology Department, Fluminense Federal University, Av. Prof. Hernani Mello, 101 24.210-150, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Albino Fonseca
- Experimental Morphology Research Unit, Morphology Department, Fluminense Federal University, Av. Prof. Hernani Mello, 101 24.210-150, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Medical Sciences Post Graduation Program, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Jorge Henrique Martins Manaia
- Experimental Morphology Research Unit, Morphology Department, Fluminense Federal University, Av. Prof. Hernani Mello, 101 24.210-150, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Medical Sciences Post Graduation Program, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Marcio Antonio Babinski
- Experimental Morphology Research Unit, Morphology Department, Fluminense Federal University, Av. Prof. Hernani Mello, 101 24.210-150, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
- Medical Sciences Post Graduation Program, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Fan W, Wu D, Zhang L, Ye J, Guan J, Yang Y, Mei X, Chen R. Single-cell transcriptomic data reveal the increase in extracellular matrix organization and antigen presentation abilities of fibroblasts and smooth muscle cells in patients with pelvic organ prolapse. Int Urogynecol J 2023; 34:2529-2537. [PMID: 37222740 DOI: 10.1007/s00192-023-05539-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS We aimed to explore the cellular properties of fibroblasts and smooth muscle cells (SMCs), the two major cell types of the vagina wall, in pelvic organ prolapse (POP) to improve the knowledge of the underlying molecular mechanisms of POP. METHODS The single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) profile GSE151202 was downloaded from NCBI Gene Expression Omnibus, in which vaginal wall tissues were harvested from patients with anterior vaginal wall prolapse and control subjects respectively. The scRNA-seq data of samples (5 POP and 5 controls) were adopted for analysis. Cluster analysis was performed to identify the cell subclusters. Trajectory analysis was applied to construct the differentiation trajectories of fibroblasts and SMCs. Cellular communication analysis was carried out to explore the ligand-receptor interactions between fibroblasts/SMCs and immune cells. RESULTS Ten subclusters were determined in both groups, among which fibroblasts and SMCs were the most abundant cell types. Compared with controls, fibroblasts increased whereas SMCs declined in POP. During the transition of fibroblasts and SMCs from a normal into a disease state, extracellular matrix organization and antigen presentation were heightened. The intercellular communications were altered in POP. Interactions between fibroblasts/SMCs and macrophages/natural killer/T cells were strengthened as more ligand-receptor pairs involved in antigen presentation pathways were gained in POP. CONCLUSION Extracellular matrix organization and antigen presentation abilities of fibroblasts and SMCs were enhanced in POP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weimin Fan
- Department of Gynecology, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, No. 801, He Qing Road, Minhang District, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Duanqing Wu
- Department of Gynecology, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, No. 801, He Qing Road, Minhang District, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Liwen Zhang
- Department of Gynecology, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, No. 801, He Qing Road, Minhang District, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Jun Ye
- Department of Gynecology, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, No. 801, He Qing Road, Minhang District, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Junhua Guan
- Department of Gynecology, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, No. 801, He Qing Road, Minhang District, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Ying Yang
- Department of Gynecology, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, No. 801, He Qing Road, Minhang District, Shanghai, 200240, China
| | - Xiaohui Mei
- Department of Gynecology, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, No. 801, He Qing Road, Minhang District, Shanghai, 200240, China.
| | - Rujun Chen
- Department of Gynecology, Shanghai Fifth People's Hospital, Fudan University, No. 801, He Qing Road, Minhang District, Shanghai, 200240, China.
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Clark AL. Genitourinary syndrome of menopause-I know it when I see it-or do I? Menopause 2023; 30:785-787. [PMID: 37498218 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000002228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/28/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Amanda L Clark
- From Oregon Health & Science University and Kaiser Permanente Center for Health Research, Portland, OR
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Clark-Patterson GL, Buchanan LM, Ogola BO, Florian-Rodriguez M, Lindsey SH, De Vita R, Miller KS. Smooth muscle contribution to vaginal viscoelastic response. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2023; 140:105702. [PMID: 36764168 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2023.105702] [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: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 01/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Smooth muscle cells contribute to the mechanical function of various soft tissues, however, their contribution to the viscoelastic response when subjected to multiaxial loading remains unknown. The vagina is a fibromuscular viscoelastic organ that is exposed to prolonged and increased pressures with daily activities and physiologic processes such as vaginal birth. The vagina changes in geometry over time under prolonged pressure, known as creep. Vaginal smooth muscle cells may contribute to creep. This may be critical for the function of vaginal and other soft tissues that experience fluctuations in their biomechanical environment. Therefore, the objective of this study was to develop methods to evaluate the contribution of smooth muscle to vaginal creep under multiaxial loading using extension - inflation tests. The vaginas from wildtype mice (C57BL/6 × 129SvEv; 3-6 months; n = 10) were stimulated with various concentrations of potassium chloride then subjected to the measured in vivo pressure (7 mmHg) for 100 s. In a different cohort of mice (n = 5), the vagina was stimulated with a single concentration of potassium chloride then subjected to 5 and 15 mmHg. A laser micrometer measured vaginal outer diameter in real-time. Immunofluorescence evaluated the expression of alpha-smooth muscle actin and myosin heavy chain in the vaginal muscularis (n = 6). When smooth muscle contraction was activated, vaginal creep behavior increased compared to the relaxed state. However, increased pressure decreased the active creep response. This study demonstrated that extension - inflation protocols can be used to evaluate smooth muscle contribution to the viscoelastic response of tubular soft tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lily M Buchanan
- University of Texas at Dallas, Department of Bioengineering, 800 W. Campbell Road, Richardson, TX, 75080, USA.
| | - Benard O Ogola
- Augusta University, Vascular Biology Center, Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, 1460 Laney Walker Blvd, Augusta, GA, 30912, USA.
| | - Maria Florian-Rodriguez
- University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery and Cecil H and Ida Green Center for Reproductive Biological Sciences, 5323 Harry Hines Boulevard, Dallas, TX, 75390-9032, USA.
| | - Sarah H Lindsey
- Tulane University School of Medicine, Department of Pharmacology, 1430 Tulane Ave, New Orleans, LA, 70112, USA.
| | - Raffaella De Vita
- Virginia Tech,Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, 330 A Kelly Hall, 325 Stanger St, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA.
| | - Kristin S Miller
- Tulane University, Department of Biomedical Engineering, 6823 St Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA, 70118, USA; University of Texas at Dallas, Department of Bioengineering, 800 W. Campbell Road, Richardson, TX, 75080, USA.
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Clark-Patterson G, Domingo M, Miller KS. Biomechanics of Pregnancy and Vaginal Delivery. CURRENT OPINION IN BIOMEDICAL ENGINEERING 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cobme.2022.100386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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Huntington AJ, Udayasuryan B, Du P, Verbridge SS, Abramowitch SD, Vita RD. Smooth Muscle Organization and Nerves in the Rat Vagina: A First Look Using Tissue Clearing and Immunolabeling. Ann Biomed Eng 2022; 50:440-451. [PMID: 35182248 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-022-02928-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Smooth muscle fibers within the vagina, as well as the nerve fibers that contribute to their control mechanisms, are important for the maintenance and alteration of vaginal length and tone. Vaginal smooth muscle (VaSM) is typically described as being arranged into two distinct concentric layers: an inner circular muscular layer and an outer longitudinal muscular layer. However, the distribution of VaSM oriented in the longitudinal direction (LD) and circumferential direction (CD) has never been quantified. In this study, tissue clearing and immunohistochemistry were performed so that the VaSM, and surrounding nerves, within whole rat vaginas ([Formula: see text]) could be imaged without tissue sectioning, preserving the three-dimensional architecture of the organs. Using these methods, the vagina was viewed through the full thickness of the muscularis layer, from the distal to the proximal regions. The VaSM orientation in the proximal and distal regions and the VaSM content along the LD and CD were quantified. Additionally, a qualitative assessment of vaginal nerves was performed. When compared using a permuted version of the Watson [Formula: see text] test, the orientation of VaSM in the proximal and distal regions were found to be significantly different in 4 of the 6 imaged rat vaginas ([Formula: see text]). While the distal vagina contained a similar amount of VaSM oriented within [Formula: see text] of the LD and within [Formula: see text] of the CD, the proximal vagina contained significantly more VaSM oriented towards the LD than towards the CD. Nerve fibers were found to be wavy, running both parallel and perpendicular to vascular and non-vascular smooth muscle within the vagina. Micro-structural analyses, like the one conducted here, are necessary to understand the physiological function and pathological changes of the vagina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa J Huntington
- STRETCH Lab, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, 330A Kelly Hall, 325 Stanger Street, Blacksburg, 24061, VA, USA
| | - Barath Udayasuryan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, 330 Kelly Hall, 325 Stanger Street, Blacksburg, 24061, VA, USA
| | - Pang Du
- Department of Statistics, Virginia Tech, 417A Hutcheson Hall, 250 Drillfield Drive, Blacksburg, 24061, VA, USA
| | - Scott S Verbridge
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, 330 Kelly Hall, 325 Stanger Street, Blacksburg, 24061, VA, USA
| | - Steven D Abramowitch
- Translational Biomechanics Lab, Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Benedum Hall, 3700 O'Hara Street, Pittsburgh, 15213, PA, USA
| | - Raffaella De Vita
- STRETCH Lab, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, 330A Kelly Hall, 325 Stanger Street, Blacksburg, 24061, VA, USA.
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Induction of Cellular Senescence in Rat Vaginal Fibroblasts and Treatment With Senolytics: An in Vitro Model for the Study of Pelvic Organ Prolapse. Female Pelvic Med Reconstr Surg 2022; 28:341-345. [PMID: 35030138 DOI: 10.1097/spv.0000000000001131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to develop an in vitro model of cellular senescence using rat vaginal fibroblasts and determine the effects of treatment with senolytics. METHODS Rat vaginal tissue biopsies were collected. Primary vaginal fibroblasts were isolated and characterized by immunofluorescence. To induce cellular senescence, fibroblasts were treated with etoposide at 3, 10, and 20 mM for 24 hours, followed by treatment with the senolytics dasatinib (1 mM) and/or quercetin (20 mM). After treatment, RNA was extracted and the expression of selected genes was quantified. Immunostaining of senescence markers was also performed. RESULTS Fibroblasts were confirmed by positive immunostaining for α-smooth muscle actin and vimentin, and negative immunostaining for pan-cytokeratin. Treatment with etoposide resulted in a dose-dependent increase in expression of the senescence-associated secretory phenotype markers MMP-7, MMP-9, and IL-b1 (P < 0.05) compared with controls. Immunostaining showed increased expression of γ-H2A and p21 after treatment with etoposide. Cells treated with dasatinib and quercetin after etoposide treatment had decreased expression of p21, MMP-7, MMP-9, and IL-1b compared with cells treated only with etoposide (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Upregulation of senescence-associated factors provided evidence that senescence can be induced in vaginal fibroblasts in vitro. Furthermore, treatment with the senolytics dasatinib and quercetin abrogated the senescence phenotype induced by etoposide in rat vaginal fibroblasts. Our findings provide a novel model for the study and development of new therapies targeting the disordered extracellular matrix associated with pelvic organ prolapse.
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Clark-Patterson GL, McGuire JA, Desrosiers L, Knoepp LR, De Vita R, Miller KS. Investigation of Murine Vaginal Creep Response to Altered Mechanical Loads. J Biomech Eng 2021; 143:1119395. [PMID: 34494082 DOI: 10.1115/1.4052365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
The vagina is a viscoelastic fibromuscular organ that provides support to the pelvic organs. The viscoelastic properties of the vagina are understudied but may be critical for pelvic stability. Most studies evaluate vaginal viscoelasticity under a single uniaxial load; however, the vagina is subjected to dynamic multiaxial loading in the body. It is unknown how varied multiaxial loading conditions affect vaginal viscoelastic behavior and which microstructural processes dictate the viscoelastic response. Therefore, the objective was to develop methods using extension-inflation protocols to quantify vaginal viscoelastic creep under various circumferential and axial loads. Then, the protocol was applied to quantify vaginal creep and collagen microstructure in the fibulin-5 wildtype and haploinsufficient vaginas. To evaluate pressure-dependent creep, the fibulin-5 wildtype and haploinsufficient vaginas (n = 7/genotype) were subjected to various constant pressures at the physiologic length for 100 s. For axial length-dependent creep, the vaginas (n = 7/genotype) were extended to various fixed axial lengths then subjected to the mean in vivo pressure for 100 s. Second-harmonic generation imaging was performed to quantify collagen fiber organization and undulation (n = 3/genotype). Increased pressure significantly increased creep strain in the wildtype, but not the haploinsufficient vagina. The axial length did not significantly affect the creep rate or strain in both genotypes. Collagen undulation varied through the depth of the subepithelium but not between genotypes. These findings suggest that the creep response to loading may vary with biological processes and pathologies, therefore, evaluating vaginal creep under various circumferential loads may be important to understand vaginal function.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jeffrey A McGuire
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, 330 A Kelly Hall, 325 Stanger Street, Blacksburg, VA 24061
| | - Laurephile Desrosiers
- Department of Female Pelvic Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery, University of Queensland Ochsner Clinical School, 1514 Jefferson Highway, New Orleans, LA 70121
| | - Leise R Knoepp
- Department of Female Pelvic Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery, University of Queensland Ochsner Clinical School, 1514 Jefferson Highway, New Orleans, LA 70121
| | - Raffaella De Vita
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, 330 A Kelly Hall, 325 Stanger Street, Blacksburg, VA 24061
| | - Kristin S Miller
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tulane University, 6823 St Charles Ave., New Orleans, LA 70118
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Babinski MDSD, Pires LAS, Fonseca Junior A, Manaia JHM, Babinski MA. Fibrous components of extracellular matrix and smooth muscle of the vaginal wall in young and postmenopausal women: Stereological analysis. Tissue Cell 2021; 74:101682. [PMID: 34800880 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2021.101682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The anterior vaginal wall is subject to many diseases, such as pelvic organ prolapse. The pathophysiology of this illness is multifactorial, and as such, structural components of the vagina are involved. Furthermore, it is more prevalent in older women. There is a lack of data in the literature regarding the extracellular matrix components of the vaginal wall and its changes with aging. The work presented herein aims to perform a stereological study of the extracellular matrix in young and old women. It was observed a decrease of the volumetric density of smooth muscle (45.5 ± 3.2 % and 32.8 ± 5.8 % for the G1 and G2 samples, respectively) and an increase of collagen and elastic fibers with age (35.9 ± 2.1 % and 54.1 ± 5.9 % for the G1 and G2, respectively) in the mucosa of the vaginal wall. These results could help to better understand the pathophysiology of pelvic organ prolapse concerning the aging process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monique da Silva Dias Babinski
- Experimental Morphology Research Unit, Morphology Department, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Medical Sciences Post Graduation Program, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Lucas Alves Sarmento Pires
- Experimental Morphology Research Unit, Morphology Department, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Medical Sciences Post Graduation Program, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Albino Fonseca Junior
- Experimental Morphology Research Unit, Morphology Department, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Medical Sciences Post Graduation Program, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Jorge Henrique Martins Manaia
- Experimental Morphology Research Unit, Morphology Department, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Medical Sciences Post Graduation Program, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Marcio Antonio Babinski
- Experimental Morphology Research Unit, Morphology Department, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Medical Sciences Post Graduation Program, Fluminense Federal University, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
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Csikós A, Kozma B, Pór Á, Kovács I, Lampé R, Miklós I, Takacs P. Zinc Transporter 9 (SLC30A9) Expression Is Decreased in the Vaginal Tissues of Menopausal Women. Biol Trace Elem Res 2021; 199:4011-4019. [PMID: 33409913 DOI: 10.1007/s12011-020-02525-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 11/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Our aim was to compare zinc transporter (ZnT/SLC30A, and ZIP/SLC39A) expression between pre- and postmenopausal women in human vaginal tissues. Zinc transporter families are responsible for the maintenance of intracellular zinc concentrations. Zinc has significant effects on the extracellular matrix composition. Vaginal wall biopsies were obtained from seven premenopausal and seven postmenopausal women. mRNA expression of twenty-four zinc transporters was determined by quantitative real-time PCR. Zinc transporter expression at the protein level was assessed by immunohistochemistry. Student's t test and Mann-Whitney U test were used to compare data. ZnT4 and ZnT9 mRNA expression were significantly lower in postmenopausal women compared with premenopausal women (mean ± SD mRNA expression in relative units, 96.43 ± 140.61 vs. 410.59 ± 304.34, p = 0.03 and 0.62 ± 0.39 vs. 1.13 ± 0.31, p = 0.02). In addition, ZIP2, ZIP3, and ZIP6 mRNA expressions were significantly lower in postmenopausal women compared with premenopausal women (mean ± SD mRNA expression in relative units, 1.11 ± 0.61 vs. 2.29 ± 1.20, p = 0.04; 2.32 ± 1.90 vs. 15.82 ± 12.97, p = 0.02 and 1.10 ± 0.80 vs. 5.73 ± 4.72, p = 0.03). ZnT9 protein expression in the stratum spinosum was significantly lower in postmenopausal women (p = 0.012). Zinc transporters were expressed differentially in the vaginal tissues. ZnT9 expression was significantly lower in postmenopausal women compared with premenopausal women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anett Csikós
- Molecular Biology Group, FemPharma, LLC, Vígkedvű Mihály utca 21. II/5, Debrecen, 4024, Hungary.
| | - Bence Kozma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Ágnes Pór
- Department of Pathology, Gyula Kenézy County Hospital, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Ilona Kovács
- Department of Pathology, Gyula Kenézy County Hospital, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Rudolf Lampé
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Ida Miklós
- Department of Genetics and Applied Microbiology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Peter Takacs
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
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Clark-Patterson GL, Roy S, Desrosiers L, Knoepp LR, Sen A, Miller KS. Role of fibulin-5 insufficiency and prolapse progression on murine vaginal biomechanical function. Sci Rep 2021; 11:20956. [PMID: 34697337 PMCID: PMC8546087 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-00351-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
The vagina plays a critical role in supporting the pelvic organs and loss of support leads to pelvic organ prolapse. It is unknown what microstructural changes influence prolapse progression nor how decreased elastic fibers contributes to vaginal remodeling and smooth muscle contractility. The objective for this study was to evaluate the effect of fibulin-5 haploinsufficiency, and deficiency with progressive prolapse on the biaxial contractile and biomechanical function of the murine vagina. Vaginas from wildtype (n = 13), haploinsufficient (n = 13), and deficient mice with grade 1 (n = 9) and grade 2 or 3 (n = 9) prolapse were explanted for biaxial contractile and biomechanical testing. Multiaxial histology (n = 3/group) evaluated elastic and collagen fiber microstructure. Western blotting quantified protein expression (n = 6/group). A one-way ANOVA or Kruskal-Wallis test evaluated statistical significance. Pearson's or Spearman's test determined correlations with prolapse grade. Axial contractility decreased with fibulin-5 deficiency and POP (p < 0.001), negatively correlated with prolapse grade (ρ = - 0.80; p < 0.001), and positively correlated with muscularis elastin area fraction (ρ = - 0.78; p = 0.004). Circumferential (ρ = 0.71; p < 0.001) and axial (ρ = 0.69; p < 0.001) vaginal wall stresses positively correlated with prolapse grade. These findings demonstrated that fibulin-5 deficiency and prolapse progression decreased vaginal contractility and increased vaginal wall stress. Future work is needed to better understand the processes that contribute to prolapse progression in order to guide diagnostic, preventative, and treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sambit Roy
- Department of Animal Sciences, Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, 48824, USA
| | - Laurephile Desrosiers
- Department of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Queensland Ochsner Clinical School, New Orleans, 70121, USA
| | - Leise R Knoepp
- Department of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Queensland Ochsner Clinical School, New Orleans, 70121, USA
| | - Aritro Sen
- Department of Animal Sciences, Reproductive and Developmental Sciences Program, Michigan State University, East Lansing, 48824, USA
| | - Kristin S Miller
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tulane University, New Orleans, 70118, USA.
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15
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Huntington A, Abramowitch SD, Moalli PA, De Vita R. Strains induced in the vagina by smooth muscle contractions. Acta Biomater 2021; 129:178-187. [PMID: 34033971 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
The ability of the vagina to contract gives rise to a set of active mechanical properties that contribute to the complex function of this organ in-vivo. Regional differences in the morphology of the vagina have been long recognized, but the large heterogeneous deformations that the vagina experiences during contractions have never been quantified. Furthermore, there is no consensus regarding differences in contractility along the two primary anatomical directions of the vagina: the longitudinal direction (LD) and the circumferential direction (CD). In this study, square vaginal specimens from healthy virgin rats (n=15) were subjected to isometric planar biaxial tests at four equi-biaxial stretches of 1.0, 1.1, 1.2, and 1.3. Contractions were induced at each stretch by a high concentration potassium solution. The digital image correlation method was used to perform full-field strain measurements during contractions. The vagina was found to undergo significantly higher compressive strains, tensile strains, and contractile forces along the LD than along the CD during contractions. Specifically, when computed over all the applied equi-biaxial stretches, mean (± std. dev.) absolute maximum compressive strains were -(13.43 ± 1.56)% along the LD and -(3.19 ± 0.25)% along the CD, mean absolute maximum tensile strains were (10.92 ± 1.73)% along the LD and (3.62 ± 0.57)% along the CD, and mean maximum contractile forces were 6.24 ± 0.55 mN along the LD and 3.35 ± 0.56 mN along the CD. Moreover, the vaginal tissue appeared to undergo compression in the proximal region and tension in the distal region while kept at constant equi-biaxial stretches. The active mechanical properties of the healthy vagina need to be fully investigated so that detrimental alterations in vaginal contractility, such as those caused by pelvic floor disorders and current treatment strategies, can be prevented. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Contractile forces of the vagina have been measured by several investigators using uniaxial tensile testing methods. Unlike previous studies, in this study planar-biaxial tests of vaginal specimens were performed while the full-field strains of the vagina, as induced by smooth muscle contraction, were measured. The vagina was found to generate significantly larger contractile strains and forces in the longitudinal direction than in the circumferential direction. Knowledge of the contractile mechanics of the healthy vagina is essential to understand the detrimental effects that pelvic organ prolapse and the use of surgical meshes have on the functionality of smooth muscle in the vagina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa Huntington
- STRETCH Lab, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA
| | - Steven D Abramowitch
- Translational Biomechanics Lab, Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Benedum Hall, 3700 O'Hara Street, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Pamela A Moalli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Magee-Womens Research Institute, 204 Craft Ave, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA
| | - Raffaella De Vita
- STRETCH Lab, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA.
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16
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Zhang Y, Ma Y, Chen J, Wang M, Cao Y, Li L, Yang H, Liu X, Li Y, Zhu L. Mesenchymal stem cell transplantation for vaginal repair in an ovariectomized rhesus macaque model. Stem Cell Res Ther 2021; 12:406. [PMID: 34266489 PMCID: PMC8281669 DOI: 10.1186/s13287-021-02488-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 02/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current surgical therapies for pelvic organ prolapse (POP) do not repair weak vaginal tissue and just provide support; these therapies may trigger severe complications. Stem cell-based regenerative therapy, due to its ability to reconstruct damaged tissue, may be a promising therapeutic strategy for POP. The objective of this study is to evaluate whether mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy can repair weak vaginal tissue in an ovariectomized rhesus macaque model. METHODS A bilateral ovariectomy model was established in rhesus macaques to induce menopause-related vaginal injury. Ten bilaterally ovariectomized rhesus macaques were divided into two groups (n=5/group): the saline group and the MSC group. Three months after ovariectomy, saline or MSCs were injected in situ into the injured vaginal wall. The vaginal tissue was harvested 12 weeks after injection for histological and biochemical analyses to evaluate changes of extracellular matrix, microvascular density, and smooth muscle in the vaginal tissue. Biomechanical properties of the vaginal tissue were assessed by uniaxial tensile testing. Data analysis was performed with unpaired Student's t test or Mann-Whitney. RESULTS Twelve weeks after MSC transplantation, histological and biochemical analyses revealed that the content of collagen I, elastin, and microvascular density in the lamina propria of the vagina increased significantly in the MSC group compared with the saline group. And the fraction of smooth muscle in the muscularis of vagina increased significantly in the MSC group. In addition, MSC transplantation improved the biomechanical properties of the vagina by enhancing the elastic modulus. CONCLUSION Vaginal MSC transplantation could repair the weak vaginal tissue by promoting extracellular matrix ingrowth, neovascularization, and smooth muscle formation and improve the biomechanical properties of the vagina, providing a new prospective treatment for POP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ye Zhang
- 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 Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yidi Ma
- 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 Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Juan Chen
- 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 Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Min Wang
- Medical Science Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- Department of Rheumatology, Beijing Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yuan Cao
- Department of Neurology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Lei Li
- 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 Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Hua Yang
- 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 Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xudong Liu
- Medical Science Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yaqian Li
- Medical Science Research Center, State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
| | - Lan Zhu
- 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 Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
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17
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Mao M, Li Y, Zhang Y, Kang J, Zhu L. Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells reconstruct the vaginal wall of ovariectomized Sprague-Dawley rats: implications for pelvic floor reconstruction. Cell Tissue Res 2021; 386:571-583. [PMID: 34264376 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-021-03478-9] [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: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 05/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Vaginal structural defects are involved in pelvic organ prolapse (POP). We tested whether mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) therapy can repair the weakened vaginal wall of POP patients as a novel POP treatment. Ninety-six ovariectomized rats were divided into 4 groups (n = 24/group): saline (sal), collagen (col), sal + MSC, and col + MSC groups. Two weeks after ovariectomy, rats received subepithelial injection of 0.3 ml saline, 0.3 ml collagen I gel, and 0.3 ml saline: 3 × 106 human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (HUMSCs), or 0.3 ml collagen I gel: 3 × 106 HUMSCs into the anterior vaginal wall. Eight additional rats underwent in vivo bioluminescence imaging (BLI) to evaluate in vivo cell viability. The BLI signal disappeared within 1 week after MSC injection, and no in vivo MSC differentiation was found. Collagen I content was significantly lower at 4 and 12 weeks in the two MSC groups than in the sal and col groups, while collagen III was significantly higher (P < 0.001). The fraction of smooth muscle in the nonvascular muscularis increased significantly in the two MSC groups at 12 weeks (P < 0.001). ACTA2 mRNA in the col + MSC group was significantly higher than that in the sal group at 2 and 4 weeks (P = 0.042 and P = 0.040). mRNA levels of angiogenic factors (bFGF or VEGF) in the two MSC groups were significantly higher than those in the sal and col groups at different time points. HUMSCs normalized the fibromuscular structures of the vaginal wall of ovariectomized rats potentially through a paracrine effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Mao
- Departments 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, China
- Department of Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yaqian Li
- Medical Science Research Center, 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, China
| | - Ye Zhang
- Departments 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, China
| | - Jia Kang
- Departments 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, China
| | - Lan Zhu
- Departments 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, China.
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18
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Ma Y, Zhang Y, Chen J, Li L, Liu X, Zhang L, Ma C, Wang Y, Tian W, Song X, Li Y, Zhu L. Mesenchymal stem cell-based bioengineered constructs enhance vaginal repair in ovariectomized rhesus monkeys. Biomaterials 2021; 275:120863. [PMID: 34139509 DOI: 10.1016/j.biomaterials.2021.120863] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Transvaginal meshes repair for treating pelvic organ prolapse (POP) was halted by the U. S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) because they can lead to severe complications. Therefore, investigations of new therapeutic strategies are urgently needed. Cell-based regenerative therapy holds great promise for the repair and restoration of damaged tissue. Here, we generated a bioengineered graft by seeding human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (HUMSCs) on bioscaffolds to reconstruct the damaged vagina. In the in vitro study, HUMSCs proliferated well and the density was appropriate after 5 days of culture. Besides, we demonstrated that the differentiation potential of HUMSCs was maintained with external growth factor stimulation. The complete transcriptomic profile of HUMSCs revealed that HUMSCs cultured on grafts produced significantly higher levels of proangiogenic cytokines than cells cultured in tissue culture plates (TCPs). Three months after implantation of the bioengineered grafts into ovariectomized (OVX) rhesus monkeys via sacrocolpopexy, extracellular matrix reorganization, large muscle bundle formation, angiogenesis and, mechanical properties of the vagina were enhanced. To our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of the utility of stem cell-based bioengineered grafts for repairing damaged vaginal tissue in rhesus monkeys. These results elucidate a new approach for vagina repair and provide new ideas for treating POP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yidi Ma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 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 Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Ye Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 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 Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Juan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 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 Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Lei Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 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 Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Xudong Liu
- Medical Science Research Center, 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, China
| | - Lin Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 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 Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Congcong Ma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 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 Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Yuan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 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 Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Weijie Tian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 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 Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Xiaochen Song
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 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 Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China
| | - Yaqian Li
- Medical Science Research Center, 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, China.
| | - Lan Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 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 Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, 100730, China.
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Csikós A, Kozma B, Baranyai E, Miklós I, Larson K, Póka R, Takacs P. Evaluation of zinc and copper levels in vaginal tissues and whole blood: correlation with age. BMC WOMENS HEALTH 2021; 21:62. [PMID: 33573653 PMCID: PMC7879615 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-021-01215-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Background Zinc and copper are essential trace elements and play a crucial role in the homeostasis of connective tissues. In this study, we aimed to define zinc and copper levels in the vaginal tissue and establish whether a correlation exists between the zinc and copper levels either or both in whole blood or vaginal tissue samples and whether the finding correlates with the age of the patient or at least with her menopausal status. Methods We collected whole blood and vaginal tissue samples from 32 women and measured their zinc and copper levels by inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry. We have performed Student's t test to evaluate the differences in the mean levels of trace elements and multiple regression to evaluate the association between vaginal tissue zinc/copper levels and age, menopausal status, number of vaginal deliveries, and zinc/copper blood levels. Results Zinc levels were significantly higher in both the vaginal tissues and whole blood samples than copper levels (p < 0.01). In the vaginal tissue samples, a strong positive correlation could be detected between zinc and copper levels (r = 0.82, p < 0.01). In the vaginal tissue, a negative correlation was found for zinc and copper levels with the age of women (r = − 0.27, p = 0.04 and r = − 0.56, p < 0.01). Multiple linear regression model (age, menopausal status, vaginal delivery and copper/zinc blood levels) showed that only age remained a significant predictor for zinc and copper vaginal tissues levels (p = 0.03, 95% CI − 2.28 to − 0.06; p = 0.004, 95% CI − 1.76 to − 0.34). Conclusions Zinc and copper levels in the vaginal tissue decline with age. Out of the examined variables (age, menopausal status, vaginal delivery, and copper/zinc levels), only age is a significant predictor of vaginal zinc/copper levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anett Csikós
- Molecular Biology Group, FemPharma, LLC, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Bence Kozma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Edina Baranyai
- Department of Inorganic and Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Science and Technology Agilent Atomic Spectroscopy Partner Laboratory, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Ida Miklós
- Department of Genetics and Applied Microbiology, Faculty of Science and Technology, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Kindra Larson
- Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Róbert Póka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Peter Takacs
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary. .,Division of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, VA, USA.
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20
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Orlicky DJ, Guess MK, Bales ES, Rascoff LG, Arruda JS, Hutchinson-Colas JA, Johnson J, Connell KA. Using the novel pelvic organ prolapse histologic quantification system to identify phenotypes in uterosacral ligaments in women with pelvic organ prolapse. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2021; 224:67.e1-67.e18. [PMID: 33130030 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2020.10.040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2020] [Revised: 10/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pelvic organ prolapse is common, but the underlying etiologies are poorly understood, which limits our current prevention and treatment options. OBJECTIVE Our primary objective was to compare the uterosacral ligament histologic features in women with and without prolapse using the novel pelvic organ prolapse histologic quantification system. Our secondary aim was to determine whether composite histologic findings in uterosacral ligaments are associated with prolapse risk factors. STUDY DESIGN This was a prospective cohort study in which paracervical uterosacral ligament biopsies were performed at the time of hysterectomy for primary prolapse or other benign gynecologic indications and processed for histologic evaluation. The pelvic organ prolapse quantification system was used to determine the prolapse stage. In this study, 9 prominent histologic features were semiquantitatively scored using the pelvic organ prolapse histologic quantification system in a blinded fashion and compared between prolapse and control groups. Unbiased principal component analysis of these scores was independently performed to identify potential relationships between histologic measures and prolapse risk factors. RESULTS The histologic scores of 81 prolapse and 33 control ligaments were analyzed. Compared with the control group, women in the prolapse group were significantly older and more likely to be in the menopausal phase. There was no difference in the number of vaginal deliveries, body mass index, hormone use, or smoking status between the groups. To control for baseline differences, patients were also stratified by age over 40 years and menopausal status. Compared with the control group, the prolapse ligaments in the premenopausal group had significantly more loss of smooth muscle fibers within the fascicles (P<.001), increased inflammatory infiltrates of neutrophils within the tissue and perineural inflammatory cells (P<.01 and P=.04, respectively), and reduced neointimal hyperplasia (P=.02). Prolapse ligaments in the postmenopausal group exhibited elevated adipose content compared with that of the control group (P=.05). Amount of fibrillar collagen, total nonvascular smooth muscle, and muscle fiber vesicles of prolapse ligaments did not differ in either the premenopausal or postmenopausal group compared with that of the control group. Unbiased principal component analysis of the histologic scores separated the prolapse ligaments into 3 phenotypes: (1) increased adipose accumulation, (2) increased inflammation, and (3) abnormal vasculature, with variable overlap with controls. Posthoc analysis of these subgroups demonstrated a positive correlation between increasing number of vaginal deliveries and body mass index with increasing adipose content in the adipocyte accumulation and inflammatory phenotype and increasing neointimal hyperplasia in the vascular phenotype. However, only the relationship between vaginal delivery and adipocytes was significant in the adipose phenotype (R2=0.13; P=.04). CONCLUSION Histologic phenotypes exist in pelvic support ligaments that can be distinguished using the pelvic organ prolapse histologic quantification system and principle component analysis. Vaginal delivery is associated with aberrant adipose accumulation in uterosacral ligaments. Our findings support a multifactorial etiology for pelvic organ prolapse contributing to altered smooth muscle, vasculature, and connective tissue content in crucial pelvic support structures. To confirm these associations and evaluate the biomechanical properties of histologic phenotypes of prolapse, larger studies are warranted. Closing this gap in knowledge will help optimize personalized medicine and help identify targets for prevention and treatment of this complex condition.
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21
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Huntington A, Donaldson K, De Vita R. Contractile Properties of Vaginal Tissue. J Biomech Eng 2020; 142:080801. [PMID: 32203570 PMCID: PMC10854261 DOI: 10.1115/1.4046712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2019] [Revised: 02/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
The vagina is an important organ of the female reproductive system that has been largely understudied in the field of biomechanics. In recent years, some research has been conducted to evaluate the mechanical properties of the vagina, but much has focused on characterizing the passive mechanical properties. Because vaginal contractions play a central role in sexual function, childbirth, and development and treatment of pelvic floor disorders, the active mechanical properties of the vagina must be also quantified. This review surveys and summarizes published experimental studies on the active properties of the vagina including the differences in such properties determined by anatomic regions and orientations, neural pathways, life events such as pregnancy and menopause, pelvic floor disorders such as prolapse, and surgical mesh treatment. Conflicting experimental findings are presented, illustrating the need for further research on the active properties of the vagina. However, consensus currently exists regarding the negative impact of surgical mesh on vaginal contractility. This review also identifies knowledge gaps and future research opportunities, thus proving a firm foundation for novice and experienced researchers in this emerging area of biomechanics and encouraging more activity on women's sexual and reproductive health research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alyssa Huntington
- STRETCH Lab, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061
| | - Kandace Donaldson
- STRETCH Lab, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061
| | - Raffaella De Vita
- STRETCH Lab, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061
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Ferreira JPS, Kuang M, Parente MPL, Natal Jorge RM, Wang R, Eppell SJ, Damaser M. Altered mechanics of vaginal smooth muscle cells due to the lysyl oxidase-like1 knockout. Acta Biomater 2020; 110:175-187. [PMID: 32335309 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2020.03.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2019] [Revised: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The remodeling mechanisms that cause connective tissue of the vaginal wall, consisting mostly of smooth muscle, to weaken after vaginal delivery are not fully understood. Abnormal remodeling after delivery can contribute to development of pelvic organ prolapse and other pelvic floor disorders. The present study used vaginal smooth muscle cells (vSMCs) isolated from knockout mice lacking the expression of the lysyl oxidase-like1 (LOXL1) enzyme, a well-characterized animal model for pelvic organ prolapse. We tested if vaginal smooth muscle cells from LOXL1 knockout mice have altered mechanics including stiffness and surface adhesion. Using atomic force microscopy, we performed nanoindentations on both isolated and confluent cells to evaluate the effect of LOXL1 knockout on in vitro cultures of vSMCs cells from nulliparous mice. The results show that LOXL1 knockout vSMCs have increased stiffness in pre-confluent but decreased stiffness in confluent cultures (p* < 0.05) and significant decreased surface adhesion in pre-confluent cultures (p* < 0.05). This study provides evidence that the weakening of vaginal connective tissue in the absense of LOXL1 changes the mechanical properties of the vSMCs. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: Pelvic organ prolapse is a common condition affecting millions of women worldwide, which significantly impacts their quality of life. Alterations in vaginal and pelvic floor mechanical properties can change their ability to support the pelvic organs. This study provides evidence of altered stiffness of vaginal smooth muscle cells from mice resembling pelvic organ prolapse. The results from this study set a foundation to develop pathophysiology-driven therapies focused on the interplay between smooth muscle mechanics and extracellular matrix remodeling.
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Affiliation(s)
- J P S Ferreira
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal; Institute of Science and Innovation in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Porto, Portugal; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lerner Research Institute and Glickman Urological Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, OH, USA.
| | - M Kuang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lerner Research Institute and Glickman Urological Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, OH, USA
| | - M P L Parente
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal; Institute of Science and Innovation in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Porto, Portugal
| | - R M Natal Jorge
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal; Institute of Science and Innovation in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, Porto, Portugal
| | - R Wang
- Department of Chemistry, Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - S J Eppell
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - M Damaser
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Lerner Research Institute and Glickman Urological Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, OH, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Case Western Reserve, Cleveland, OH, USA; Advanced Platform Technology Center, Louis Stokes Cleveland Veteran's Administration Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, USA.
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23
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Maseroli E, Vignozzi L. Testosterone and Vaginal Function. Sex Med Rev 2020; 8:379-392. [DOI: 10.1016/j.sxmr.2020.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Revised: 03/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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Pack E, Dubik J, Snyder W, Simon A, Clark S, De Vita R. Biaxial Stress Relaxation of Vaginal Tissue in Pubertal Gilts. J Biomech Eng 2020; 142:031002. [PMID: 31833537 DOI: 10.1115/1.4045707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a condition characterized by displacement of the vagina from its normal anatomical position leading to symptoms such as incontinence, physical discomfort, and poor self-image. Conservative treatment has shown limited success and surgical procedures, including the use of mesh, often lead to severe complications. To improve the current treatment methods for prolapse, the viscoelastic properties of vaginal tissue need to be characterized. We determined the biaxial stress relaxation response of vaginal tissue isolated from healthy pubertal gilts. Square specimens (n = 20) with sides aligned along the longitudinal directions (LD) and circumferential direction (CD) of the vagina were biaxially displaced up to 5 N. The specimens were then kept at the displacements corresponding to 5 N for 20 min in both the LD and CD, and the corresponding strains were measured using digital image correlation (DIC). The stresses in the LD and CD were found to decrease by 49.91 ± 5.81% and 46.22 ± 5.54% after 20 min, respectively. The strain in the LD and CD increased slightly from 0.080 ± 0.054 to 0.091 ± 0.064 and 0.050 ± 0.039 to 0.058 ± 0.047, respectively, but these changes were not significant (p > 0.01). By using the Peleg model, the initial decay rate and the asymptotic stress during stress relaxation were found to be significantly higher in the LD than in the CD (p≪0.001), suggesting higher stress relaxation in the LD. These findings may have implications for improving current surgical mesh, mechanical devices, and physical therapy used for prolapse treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erica Pack
- School of Plant and Environmental Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061; STRETCH Lab, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, and School of Plant and Environmental Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061
| | - Justin Dubik
- STRETCH Lab, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061
| | - William Snyder
- STRETCH Lab, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061
| | - Alexander Simon
- Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061
| | - Sherrie Clark
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061
| | - Raffaella De Vita
- STRETCH Lab, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061
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Shaffer RM, Liang R, Knight K, Carter-Brooks CM, Abramowitch S, Moalli PA. Impact of polypropylene prolapse mesh on vaginal smooth muscle in rhesus macaque. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2019; 221:330.e1-330.e9. [PMID: 31102587 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2019.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Revised: 05/02/2019] [Accepted: 05/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of polypropylene prolapse mesh to treat pelvic organ prolapse has been limited by mesh-related complications. Gynemesh PS mesh, implanted via sacrocolpopexy in rhesus macaques, had a negative impact on the vagina with thinning of vaginal muscularis and decreased vaginal smooth muscle contractility. The negative effect was attenuated when a bioscaffold derived from urinary bladder extracellular matrix was used as a composite with Gynemesh PS. OBJECTIVE The objective of the study was to further elucidate the impact of Gynemesh PS polypropylene mesh and MatriStem extracellular matrix bioscaffolds on the vaginal smooth muscle in terms of micromorphology of vaginal smooth muscle (muscle bundles and individual myocytes), innervation, and nerve-mediated contractile function following their implantations in a rhesus macaque model via sacrocolpopexy. STUDY DESIGN Thirty-two middle-aged rhesus macaques were randomized to undergo either a sham surgery (sham, n = 8), or the implantation of Gynemesh PS alone (n = 8) vs composite mesh comprised of Gynemesh PS plus 2-ply MatriStem (n = 8) vs 6-ply MatriStem alone (n = 8) via sacrocolpopexy. The graft-vagina complexes were harvested 3 months later. Histomorphometrics of smooth muscle bundles and myocytes were performed by immunofluorescent labeling of alpha smooth muscle actin, caveolin-3 (membrane protein), and cell nuclei followed by confocal imaging. The cross-sectional diameters of smooth muscle bundles and individual myocytes were quantified using images randomly taken in at least 5 areas of each section of sample. Contractile proteins alpha smooth muscle actin and smoothelin were quantified by Western immunoblotting. Nerve density was measured by immunohistochemical labeling of a pan-neuron marker, PGP9.5. Nerve-mediated smooth muscle contractility was quantified using electrical field stimulation. One-way analysis of variance and appropriate post hoc tests were used for statistical comparisons. RESULTS Compared with sham, the implantation of Gynemesh PS alone resulted in a disorganized smooth muscle morphology with the number of small muscle bundles (cross-sectional diameter less than 20 μm) increased 67% (P = .004) and the myocyte diameter decreased 22% (P < .001). Levels of contractile proteins were all decreased vs sham with alpha smooth muscle actin decreased by 68% (P = .009), low-molecular-weight smoothelin by 51% (P = .014), and high-molecular-weight smoothelin by 40% (P = .015). Nerve density was decreased by 48% (P = .03 vs sham) paralleled by a 63% decrease of nerve-mediated contractility (P = .02). Following the implantation of composite mesh, the results of measurements were similar to sham (all P > .05), with a 39% increase in the myocyte diameter (P < .001) and a 2-fold increase in the level of alpha smooth muscle actin relative to Gynemesh (P = .045). Following the implantation of MatriStem alone, the number of small muscle bundles were increased 54% vs sham (P = .002), while the other parameters were not significantly different from sham (all P > .05). CONCLUSION The implantation of Gynemesh PS had a negative impact on the structural and functional integrity of vaginal smooth muscle evidenced by atrophic macro- and microscopic muscle morphology, decreased innervation, and impaired contractile property, consistent with a maladaptive remodeling response. The extracellular matrix bioscaffold (MatriStem), when used with Gynemesh PS as a composite (2 ply), attenuated the negative impact of Gynemesh PS; when used alone (6 ply), it induced adaptive remodeling as evidenced by an increased fraction of small smooth muscle bundles with normal contractility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca M Shaffer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Larner College of Medicine at the University of Vermont, Burlington, VT
| | - Rui Liang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Katrina Knight
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Charelle M Carter-Brooks
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Steven Abramowitch
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA; Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA
| | - Pamela A Moalli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Magee-Womens Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA.
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Knight KM, Artsen AM, Routzong MR, King GE, Abramowitch SD, Moalli PA. New Zealand white rabbit: a novel model for prolapse mesh implantation via a lumbar colpopexy. Int Urogynecol J 2019; 31:91-99. [PMID: 31418044 DOI: 10.1007/s00192-019-04071-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2019] [Accepted: 07/24/2019] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS New Zealand white rabbits are an inexpensive large-animal model. This study explored the rabbit as a model for mesh-augmented colpopexy using the intra-abdominal vagina. We hypothesized that polypropylene mesh would negatively impact rabbit vaginal smooth muscle (VSM) morphology and contractile function, similar to the nonhuman primate (NHP)-the established model for prolapse mesh evaluation. METHODS Restorelle was implanted onto the vagina of ten rabbits via lumbar colpopexy after a hysterectomy. Ten rabbits served as sham. Twelve weeks post-implantation, the vagina was excised and VSM morphology and vaginal contractility were assessed. Outcome measures were compared using independent samples t and Mann-Whitney U tests with a Bonferroni correction, where appropriate. Results from the rabbits were compared with published NHP data. RESULTS Animals had similar age, parity and BMI. VSM was 18% thinner after Restorelle implantation, P = 0.027. Vaginal contractility was 43% decreased in response to 120 mM KCl (P = 0.003), similar to the 46% reduction observed in the NHP vagina implanted with Restorelle (P = 0.027). Three meshes wrinkled in vivo, resulting in dramatic thinning of the underlying vagina in the area of the mesh causing a mesh exposure. CONCLUSIONS Polypropylene mesh negatively impacts VSM morphology and vaginal contractility in the rabbit, similar to the NHP, suggesting that the rabbit may serve as an alternative large-animal model. The vaginal thinning and appearance of a mesh exposure in the area of a mesh wrinkle suggest the rabbit may also serve as a model for understanding the pathophysiology of mesh exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrina M Knight
- Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA. .,Magee-Womens Research Institute, 204 Craft Avenue, Lab A320, Pittsburgh, PA, 15213, USA.
| | - Amanda M Artsen
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences at Magee Womens Hospital, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Megan R Routzong
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Gabrielle E King
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences at Magee Womens Hospital, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Steven D Abramowitch
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences at Magee Womens Hospital, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Pamela A Moalli
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences at Magee Womens Hospital, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Clark GL, Pokutta-Paskaleva AP, Lawrence DJ, Lindsey SH, Desrosiers L, Knoepp LR, Bayer CL, Gleason RL, Miller KS. Smooth muscle regional contribution to vaginal wall function. Interface Focus 2019; 9:20190025. [PMID: 31263538 PMCID: PMC6597518 DOI: 10.1098/rsfs.2019.0025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Pelvic organ prolapse is characterized as the descent of the pelvic organs into the vaginal canal. In the USA, there is a 12% lifetime risk for requiring surgical intervention. Although vaginal childbirth is a well-established risk factor for prolapse, the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. Decreased smooth muscle organization, composition and maximum muscle tone are characteristics of prolapsed vaginal tissue. Maximum muscle tone of the vaginal wall was previously investigated in the circumferential or axial direction under uniaxial loading; however, the vaginal wall is subjected to multiaxial loads. Further, the contribution of vaginal smooth muscle basal (resting) tone to mechanical function remains undetermined. The objectives of this study were to determine the contribution of smooth muscle basal and maximum tone to the regional biaxial mechanical behaviour of the murine vagina. Vaginal tissue from C57BL/6 mice was subjected to extension-inflation protocols (n = 10) with and without basal smooth muscle tone. Maximum tone was induced with KCl under various circumferential (n = 5) and axial (n = 5) loading conditions. The microstructure was visualized with multiphoton microscopy (n = 1), multiaxial histology (n = 4) and multiaxial immunohistochemistry (n = 4). Smooth muscle basal tone decreased material stiffness and increased anisotropy. In addition, maximum vaginal tone was decreased with increasing intraluminal pressures. This study demonstrated that vaginal muscle tone contributed to the biaxial mechanical response of murine vaginal tissue. This may be important in further elucidating the underlying mechanisms of prolapse, in order to improve current preventative and treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle L. Clark
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tulane University, 6823 St Charles Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70118, USA
| | - Anastassia P. Pokutta-Paskaleva
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, 801 Ferst Drive NW, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
| | - Dylan J. Lawrence
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tulane University, 6823 St Charles Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70118, USA
| | - Sarah H. Lindsey
- Department of Pharmacology, Tulane University School of Medicine, 1430 Tulane Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA
| | - Laurephile Desrosiers
- Department of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Queensland Ochsner Clinical School, 1514 Jefferson Highway, New Orleans, LA 70121, USA
| | - Leise R. Knoepp
- Department of Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Queensland Ochsner Clinical School, 1514 Jefferson Highway, New Orleans, LA 70121, USA
| | - Carolyn L. Bayer
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tulane University, 6823 St Charles Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70118, USA
| | - Rudolph L. Gleason
- The Wallace H. Coulter Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, 801 Ferst Drive NW, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
- The George W. Woodruff School of Mechanical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332, USA
| | - Kristin S. Miller
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Tulane University, 6823 St Charles Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70118, USA
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Tissue Composition and Biomechanical Property Changes in the Vaginal Wall of Ovariectomized Young Rats. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 2019:8921284. [PMID: 31467917 PMCID: PMC6699277 DOI: 10.1155/2019/8921284] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2019] [Revised: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 07/14/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Ideal animal models are needed to reflect the changes in the biochemical and biomechanical properties of the vagina that occur in pelvic organ prolapse (POP). In this study, we aimed to demonstrate the short and long-term effect of menopause on the biochemical and biomechanical properties of rat anterior vaginas. Here, Sprague-Dawley rats were bilaterally ovariectomized to induce menopause. Rats without ovariectomy served as the normal control group (n=12). The histology changes and the expression of collagen I, III, and a-SMA were assessed to indicate the biochemical changes in the vagina 2 weeks, 4 weeks, and 16 weeks after ovariectomy (n=6 for 2 and 4 weeks, n=12 for 16 weeks). Uniaxial biomechanical testing was conducted in the control group and ovariectomized rats 16 weeks after ovariectomy. Compared with the control group, the ovariectomy group showed a significant increase in the expression of collagen I 2 weeks after ovariectomy, while collagen III showed a declining trend. Two weeks after ovariectomy, the smooth muscle bundles began to become disorganized, and the fraction of smooth muscle in the nonvascular muscularis of the proximal vagina was significantly decreased (P<0.001). However, there was no difference in the expression of a-SMA in the distal vagina. Compared with the control group, the ovariectomy group had stiffer vaginas with a declining trend in the ultimate load 16 weeks after ovariectomy. In conclusion, surgically induced menopause had a significant short- and long-term impact on tissue composition and biomechanical properties of the rat vagina, which may lead to increased susceptibility to POP development.
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McGuire JA, Abramowitch SD, Maiti S, De Vita R. Swine Vagina Under Planar Biaxial Loads: An Investigation of Large Deformations and Tears. J Biomech Eng 2019; 141:2720658. [DOI: 10.1115/1.4042437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Vaginal tears are very common and can lead to severe complications such as hemorrhaging, fecal incontinence, urinary incontinence, and dyspareunia. Despite the implications of vaginal tears on women's health, there are currently no experimental studies on the tear behavior of vaginal tissue. In this study, planar equi-biaxial tests on square specimens of vaginal tissue, with sides oriented along the longitudinal direction (LD) and circumferential direction (CD), were conducted using swine as animal model. Three groups of specimens were mechanically tested: the NT group (n = 9), which had no pre-imposed tear, the longitudinal tear (LT) group (n = 9), and the circumferential tear (CT) group (n = 9), which had central pre-imposed elliptically shaped tears with major axes oriented in the LD and the CD, respectively. Through video recording during testing, axial strains were measured for the NT group using the digital image correlation (DIC) technique and axial displacements of hook clamps were measured for the NT, LT, and CT groups in the LD and CD. The swine vaginal tissue was found to be highly nonlinear and somewhat anisotropic. Up to normalized axial hook displacements of 1.15, no tears were observed to propagate, suggesting that the vagina has a high resistance to further tearing once a tear has occurred. However, in response to biaxial loading, the size of the tears for the CT group increased significantly more than the size of the tears for the LT group (p = 0.003). The microstructural organization of the vagina is likely the culprit for its tear resistance and orientation-dependent tear behavior. Further knowledge on the structure–function relationship of the vagina is needed to guide the development of new methods for preventing the severe complications of tearing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey A. McGuire
- STRETCH Lab, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061 e-mail:
| | - Steven D. Abramowitch
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261 e-mail:
| | - Spandan Maiti
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261 e-mail:
| | - Raffaella De Vita
- STRETCH Lab, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Mechanics, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24061 e-mail:
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30
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Walter JE. A comparison of the use of mesh to native tissue in the management of vaginal vault prolapse. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2018; 54:73-88. [PMID: 30580956 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2018.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Vaginal vault prolapse afflicts millions of women and evokes significant psychosocial and pelvic floor dysfunction. The risk factors and modalities of conservative management are discussed in this study. There remains controversy in the optimal surgical management. This review serves to study the clinical conundrum of the decision-making process to utilize the mesh and the approach. In-depth evaluation of mesh-related postsurgical complications as compared to those associated with the native tissue is explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens-Erik Walter
- McGill University, Fellowship in Female Pelvic Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery, D05.2541, 1001 Decarie Boulevard Montreal, QC, H4A 3J1, Canada.
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Anisotropy of the Passive and Active Rat Vagina Under Biaxial Loading. Ann Biomed Eng 2018; 47:272-281. [PMID: 30136151 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-018-02117-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2018] [Accepted: 08/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Pelvic organ prolapse, the descent of the pelvic organs from their normal anatomical position, is a common condition among women that is associated with mechanical alterations of the vaginal wall. In order to characterize the complex mechanical behavior of the vagina, we performed planar biaxial tests of vaginal specimens in both the passive (relaxed) and active (contracted) states. Specimens were isolated from virgin, female Long-Evans rats (n = 16) and simultaneously stretched along the longitudinal direction (LD) and circumferential direction (CD) of the vagina. Tissue contraction was induced by electric field stimulation (EFS) at incrementally increasing values of stretch and, subsequently, by KCl. On average, the vagina was stiffer in the CD than in the LD (p < 0.001). The mean maximum EFS-induced active stress was significantly higher in the CD than in the LD (p < 0.01). On the contrary, the mean KCl-induced active stress was lower in the CD than in the LD (p < 0.01). When comparing the mean maximum EFS-induced active stress to the mean KCl-induced active stress, no differences were found in the CD (p = 0.366) but, in the LD, the mean active stress was much higher in response to the KCl stimulation (p < 0.001). Collectively, these results suggest that the anisotropic behavior of the vaginal tissue is determined not only by collagen and smooth muscle fiber organization but also by the innervation.
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32
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Fang G, Hong L, Liu C, Yang Q, Zhang Q, Li Y, Li B, Wu D, Wu W, Shi H. Oxidative status of cardinal ligament in pelvic organ prolapse. Exp Ther Med 2018; 16:3293-3302. [PMID: 30250520 PMCID: PMC6143997 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2018.6633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2017] [Accepted: 09/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a common and distressing health problem in adult women, but the pathophysiological mechanism is yet to be fully elucidated. Previous studies have indicated that oxidative stress may be associated with POP. Thus, the aim of the present study was to investigate the oxidative status of pelvic supportive tissue in POP and further demonstrate that oxidative stress is associated with the pathogenesis of POP. A total of 60 samples were collected from females undergoing hysterectomy for POP or cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN). This included 16 females with POP II, 24 females with POP III–IV (according to the POP-Q system) and 20 females with CIN II–III as the control group. Immunohistochemistry was utilized to measure the expression of oxidative biomarkers, 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) and 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE). Major antioxidative enzymes, mitochondrial superoxide dismutase (MnSOD) and glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPx1) were measured through reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction, western blotting and enzyme activity assays. The results demonstrated that in the cardinal ligament, the expression of 8-OHdG and 4-HNE was higher in the POP III–IV group compared with the POP II group and control group. The MnSOD and GPx1 protein level and enzyme activity were lower in the POP III–IV group compared with the POP II or the control group, while the mRNA expression level of MnSOD and GPx1 was increased. In conclusion, oxidative damage is increased in the pelvic supportive ligament of female patients with POP and the antioxidative defense capacity is decreased. These results support previous findings that oxidative stress is involved in the pathogenesis of POP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gui Fang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Ultrasound, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Li Hong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Cheng Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Qing Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Qifan Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Yang Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Bingshu Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Debin Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Wenying Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Ultrasound, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Hua Shi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Ultrasound, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
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Recommended standardized terminology of the anterior female pelvis based on a structured medical literature review. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2018; 219:26-39. [PMID: 29630884 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2018.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2018] [Revised: 03/24/2018] [Accepted: 04/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of imprecise and inaccurate terms leads to confusion amongst anatomists and medical professionals. OBJECTIVE We sought to create recommended standardized terminology to describe anatomic structures of the anterior female pelvis based on a structured review of published literature and selected text books. STUDY DESIGN We searched MEDLINE from its inception until May 2, 2016, using 11 medical subject heading terms to identify studies reporting on anterior female pelvic anatomy; any study type published in English was accepted. Nine textbooks were also included. We screened 12,264 abstracts, identifying 200 eligible studies along with 13 textbook chapters from which we extracted all pertinent anatomic terms. RESULTS In all, 67 unique structures in the anterior female pelvis were identified. A total of 59 of these have been previously recognized with accepted terms in Terminologia Anatomica, the international standard on anatomical terminology. We also identified and propose the adoption of 4 anatomic regional terms (lateral vaginal wall, pelvic sidewall, pelvic bones, and anterior compartment), and 2 structural terms not included in Terminologia Anatomica (vaginal sulcus and levator hiatus). In addition, we identified 2 controversial terms (pubourethral ligament and Grafenberg spot) that require additional research and consensus from the greater medical and scientific community prior to adoption or rejection of these terms. CONCLUSION We propose standardized terminology that should be used when discussing anatomic structures in the anterior female pelvis to help improve communication among researchers, clinicians, and surgeons.
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Alterations of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A Expression and Microvessel Density Associated With Polypropylene Vaginal Mesh. Female Pelvic Med Reconstr Surg 2018; 26:73-79. [PMID: 29683889 DOI: 10.1097/spv.0000000000000593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Vaginal mesh exposure is the most common complication from mesh use in prolapse and incontinence surgery. Angiogenesis is an essential component of tissue healing, and defective angiogenesis plays a role in chronic wounds. We hypothesized that patients with exposures will have impaired angiogenesis as evidenced by altered tissue vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) expression and microvessel density. The study objective was to compare angiogenesis in women with vaginal mesh exposures, those with vaginal mesh without exposures, and in women who were mesh-naive. METHODS Patients undergoing polypropylene mesh removal and patients without mesh undergoing urinary incontinence or prolapse surgery were recruited. Full-thickness vaginal epithelial biopsies were obtained. The relative abundance of VEGFA RNA was measured with reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. The VEGFA and CD31 immunohistochemistry were also performed. RESULTS Ninety-two subjects were enrolled and biopsied. Mean age (SD) was 57.2 (12.8) years, 16 (17.4%) were smokers, and 68 (73.9%) were postmenopausal.The VEGFA RNA expression did not differ between subjects with mesh exposure and with mesh but no exposure (P = 0.89). However, compared with subjects with no mesh, vaginal VEGFA expression was decreased in subjects with any implanted mesh (relative expression, 0.72; P = 0.02). Microvessel density was increased in subjects with mesh exposure compared with subjects with no mesh (P < 0.01). The VEGFA expression by immunohistochemistry was significantly lower in postmenopausal subjects without estrogen treatment compared with premenopausal and postmenopausal subjects being treated with estrogen (P = 0.02). CONCLUSIONS The presence of polypropylene mesh and hormonal status are associated with evidence of altered angiogenesis.
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Modelling of Soft Connective Tissues to Investigate Female Pelvic Floor Dysfunctions. COMPUTATIONAL AND MATHEMATICAL METHODS IN MEDICINE 2018; 2018:9518076. [PMID: 29568322 PMCID: PMC5820624 DOI: 10.1155/2018/9518076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2017] [Revised: 12/04/2017] [Accepted: 12/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
After menopause, decreased levels of estrogen and progesterone remodel the collagen of the soft tissues thereby reducing their stiffness. Stress urinary incontinence is associated with involuntary urine leakage due to pathological movement of the pelvic organs resulting from lax suspension system, fasciae, and ligaments. This study compares the changes in the orientation and position of the female pelvic organs due to weakened fasciae, ligaments, and their combined laxity. A mixture theory weighted by respective volume fraction of elastin-collagen fibre compound (5%), adipose tissue (85%), and smooth muscle (5%) is adopted to characterize the mechanical behaviour of the fascia. The load carrying response (other than the functional response to the pelvic organs) of each fascia component, pelvic organs, muscles, and ligaments are assumed to be isotropic, hyperelastic, and incompressible. Finite element simulations are conducted during Valsalva manoeuvre with weakened tissues modelled by reduced tissue stiffness. A significant dislocation of the urethrovesical junction is observed due to weakness of the fascia (13.89 mm) compared to the ligaments (5.47 mm). The dynamics of the pelvic floor observed in this study during Valsalva manoeuvre is associated with urethral-bladder hypermobility, greater levator plate angulation, and positive Q-tip test which are observed in incontinent females.
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Liang R, Knight K, Easley D, Palcsey S, Abramowitch S, Moalli PA. Towards rebuilding vaginal support utilizing an extracellular matrix bioscaffold. Acta Biomater 2017; 57:324-333. [PMID: 28487243 PMCID: PMC5639927 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2017.05.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2016] [Revised: 04/25/2017] [Accepted: 05/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
As an alternative to polypropylene mesh, we explored an extracellular matrix (ECM) bioscaffold derived from urinary bladder matrix (MatriStem™) in the repair of vaginal prolapse. We aimed to restore disrupted vaginal support simulating application via transvaginal and transabdominal approaches in a macaque model focusing on the impact on vaginal structure, function, and the host immune response. In 16 macaques, after laparotomy, the uterosacral ligaments and paravaginal attachments to pelvic side wall were completely transected (IACUC# 13081928). 6-ply MatriStem was cut into posterior and anterior templates with a portion covering the vagina and arms simulating uterosacral ligaments and paravaginal attachments, respectively. After surgically exposing the correct anatomical sites, in 8 animals, a vaginal incision was made on the anterior and posterior vagina and the respective scaffolds were passed into the vagina via these incisions (transvaginal insertion) prior to placement. The remaining 8 animals underwent the same surgery without vaginal incisions (transabdominal insertion). Three months post implantation, firm tissue bands extending from vagina to pelvic side wall appeared in both MatriStem groups. Experimental endpoints examining impact of MatriStem on the vagina demonstrated that vaginal biochemical and biomechanical parameters, smooth muscle thickness and contractility, and immune responses were similar in the MatriStem no incision group and sham-operated controls. In the MatriStem incision group, a 41% decrease in vaginal stiffness (P=0.042), a 22% decrease in collagen content (P=0.008) and a 25% increase in collagen subtypes III/I was observed vs. Sham. Active MMP2 was increased in both Matristem groups vs. Sham (both P=0.002). This study presents a novel application of ECM bioscaffolds as a first step towards the rebuilding of vaginal support. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE Pelvic organ prolapse is a common condition related to failure of the supportive soft tissues of the vagina; particularly at the apex and mid-vagina. Few studies have investigated methods to regenerate these failed structures. The overall goal of the study was to determine the feasibility of utilizing a regenerative bioscaffold in prolapse applications to restore apical (level I) and lateral (level II) support to the vagina without negatively impacting vaginal structure and function. The significance of our findings is two fold: 1. Implantation of properly constructed extracellular matrix grafts promoted rebuilding of level I and level II support to the vagina and did not negatively impact the overall functional, morphological and biochemical properties of the vagina. 2. The presence of vaginal incisions in the transvaginal insertion of bioscaffolds may compromise vaginal structural integrity in the short term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Liang
- Magee Women Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, Reproductive Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - Katrina Knight
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - Deanna Easley
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - Stacy Palcsey
- Magee Women Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - Steven Abramowitch
- Magee Women Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
| | - Pamela A Moalli
- Magee Women Research Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, Reproductive Sciences, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
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Emmerson S, Young N, Rosamilia A, Parkinson L, Edwards SL, Vashi AV, Davies-Tuck M, White J, Elgass K, Lo C, Arkwright J, Werkmeister JA, Gargett CE. Ovine multiparity is associated with diminished vaginal muscularis, increased elastic fibres and vaginal wall weakness: implication for pelvic organ prolapse. Sci Rep 2017; 7:45709. [PMID: 28374826 PMCID: PMC5379562 DOI: 10.1038/srep45709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2016] [Accepted: 03/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) is a major clinical burden affecting 25% of women, with vaginal delivery a major contributing factor. We hypothesised that increasing parity weakens the vagina by altering the extracellular matrix proteins and smooth muscle thereby leading to POP vulnerability. We used a modified POP-quantification (POP-Q) system and a novel pressure sensor to measure vaginal wall weakness in nulliparous, primiparous and multiparous ewes. These measurements were correlated with histological, biochemical and biomechanical properties of the ovine vagina. Primiparous and multiparous ewes had greater displacement of vaginal tissue compared to nulliparous at points Aa, Ap and Ba and lower pressure sensor measurements at points equivalent to Ap and Ba. Vaginal wall muscularis of multiparous ewes was thinner than nulliparous and had greater elastic fibre content. Collagen content was lower in primiparous than nulliparous ewes, but collagen organisation did not differ. Biomechanically, multiparous vaginal tissue was weaker and less stiff than nulliparous. Parity had a significant impact on the structure and function of the ovine vaginal wall, as the multiparous vaginal wall was weaker and had a thinner muscularis than nulliparous ewes. This correlated with "POP-Q" and pressure sensor measurements showing greater tissue laxity in multiparous compared to nulliparous ewes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stuart Emmerson
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia.,Monash University, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia
| | | | - Anna Rosamilia
- Monash University, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia.,Monash Health, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia
| | - Luke Parkinson
- School of Computer Science, Engineering and Mathematics, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia 5042, Australia
| | | | | | - Miranda Davies-Tuck
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia.,Monash University, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia
| | - Jacinta White
- CSIRO Manufacturing, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia
| | - Kirstin Elgass
- MicroImaging, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia
| | - Camden Lo
- MicroImaging, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia
| | - John Arkwright
- School of Computer Science, Engineering and Mathematics, Flinders University, Bedford Park, South Australia 5042, Australia
| | - Jerome A Werkmeister
- Monash University, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia.,CSIRO Manufacturing, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia
| | - Caroline E Gargett
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia.,Monash University, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Clayton, Victoria, 3168, Australia
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Niu K, Lu YX, Shen WJ, Zhang YH, Wang WY. Risk Factors for Mesh Exposure after Transvaginal Mesh Surgery. Chin Med J (Engl) 2017; 129:1795-9. [PMID: 27453227 PMCID: PMC4976566 DOI: 10.4103/0366-6999.186631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Mesh exposure after surgery continues to be a clinical challenge for urogynecological surgeons. The purpose of this study was to explore the risk factors for polypropylene (PP) mesh exposure after transvaginal mesh (TVM) surgery. Methods: This study included 195 patients with advanced pelvic organ prolapse (POP), who underwent TVM from January 2004 to December 2012 at the First Affiliated Hospital of Chinese PLA General Hospital. Clinical data were evaluated including patient's demography, TVM type, concomitant procedures, operation time, blood loss, postoperative morbidity, and mesh exposure. Mesh exposure was identified through postoperative vaginal examination. Statistical analysis was performed to identify risk factors for mesh exposure. Results: Two-hundred and nine transvaginal PP meshes were placed, including 194 in the anterior wall and 15 in the posterior wall. Concomitant tension-free vaginal tape was performed in 61 cases. The mean follow-up time was 35.1 ± 23.6 months. PP mesh exposure was identified in 32 cases (16.4%), with 31 in the anterior wall and 1 in the posterior wall. Significant difference was found in operating time and concomitant procedures between exposed and nonexposed groups (F = 7.443, P = 0.007; F = 4.307, P = 0.039, respectively). Binary logistic regression revealed that the number of concomitant procedures and operation time were risk factors for mesh exposure (P = 0.001, P = 0.043). Conclusion: Concomitant procedures and increased operating time increase the risk for postoperative mesh exposure in patients undergoing TVM surgery for POP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Niu
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, First Affiliated Hospital of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Yong-Xian Lu
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, First Affiliated Hospital of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Wen-Jie Shen
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, First Affiliated Hospital of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Ying-Hui Zhang
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, First Affiliated Hospital of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Wen-Ying Wang
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, First Affiliated Hospital of Chinese PLA General Hospital, Beijing 100048, China
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Bray R, Derpapas A, Fernando R, Khullar V, Panayi DC. Does the vaginal wall become thinner as prolapse grade increases? Int Urogynecol J 2016; 28:397-402. [PMID: 27678142 PMCID: PMC5331079 DOI: 10.1007/s00192-016-3150-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2016] [Accepted: 09/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS The pathophysiology of prolapse is not well understood. However, two main theories predominate: either the fibromuscular layer of the vagina develops a defect/tears away from its supports, or its tissues are stretched and attenuated. The aim of this study was to assess how vaginal wall thickness (VWT) is related to vaginal prolapse. METHODS The study group comprised 243 women with symptomatic prolapse recruited from the Outpatient Department of a tertiary referral centre for urogynaecology. A history was taken and women were examined to determine their POP-Q score. Using a previously validated technique, ultrasonography was used to measure the mean VWT at three anatomical sites on the anterior and posterior walls. Scores were then compared using t tests, the Kruskal-Wallis test and the Friedman test. RESULTS The mean age of the patients was 59.7 years (SD 12.0 years range 38 - 84 years). For each measurement VWT reduced as prolapse grade increased until the prolapse extended beyond the hymen. Women with grade 3 prolapse had a significantly higher mean VWT than women with grade 1 or 2 contained prolapse. Menopause status did not have a significant effect on the VWT. CONCLUSIONS VWT is lower in women with vaginal prolapse until the prolapse extends beyond the hymen and then VWT is thicker and comparable with women without prolapse. This may be explained by changes in the vaginal tissue including reduction of collagen, elastin and smooth muscle, as well as fibrosis in exposed tissues, rather than by defects in the vagina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rhiannon Bray
- Department of Urogynaecology, St Mary's Hospital, Imperial NHS Trust, London, W2 1NY, UK.
| | - Alex Derpapas
- Department of Urogynaecology, St Mary's Hospital, Imperial NHS Trust, London, W2 1NY, UK
| | - Ruwan Fernando
- Department of Urogynaecology, St Mary's Hospital, Imperial NHS Trust, London, W2 1NY, UK
| | - Vik Khullar
- Department of Urogynaecology, St Mary's Hospital, Imperial NHS Trust, London, W2 1NY, UK
| | - Demetri C Panayi
- Department of Urogynaecology, Pelvic Floor and Childbirth Injury, Epsom and St. Helier NHS Trust, Carshalton, UK
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Focal depth measurements of the vaginal wall: a new method to noninvasively quantify vaginal wall thickness in the diagnosis and treatment of vaginal atrophy. Menopause 2016; 23:833-8. [DOI: 10.1097/gme.0000000000000634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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Zambon JP, Badlani GH. Vaginal Mesh Exposure Presentation, Evaluation, and Management. Curr Urol Rep 2016; 17:65. [DOI: 10.1007/s11934-016-0617-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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Todros S, Pavan PG, Natali AN. Biomechanical properties of synthetic surgical meshes for pelvic prolapse repair. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2015; 55:271-285. [PMID: 26615384 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2015.10.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2015] [Revised: 10/26/2015] [Accepted: 10/27/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic meshes are widely used for surgical repair of different kind of prolapses. In the light of the experience of abdominal wall repair, similar prostheses are currently used in the pelvic region, to restore physiological anatomy after organ prolapse into the vaginal wall, that represent a recurrent dysfunction. For this purpose, synthetic meshes are surgically positioned in contact with the anterior and/or posterior vaginal wall, to inferiorly support prolapsed organs. Nonetheless, while mesh implantation restores physiological anatomy, it is often associated with different complications in the vaginal region. These potentially dangerous effects induce the surgical community to reconsider the safety and efficacy of mesh transvaginal placement. For this purpose, the evaluation of state-of-the-art research may provide the basis for a comprehensive analysis of mesh compatibility and functionality. The aim of this work is to review synthetic surgical meshes for pelvic organs prolapse repair, taking into account the mechanics of mesh material and structure, and to relate them with pelvic and vaginal tissue biomechanics. Synthetic meshes are currently available in different chemical composition, fiber and textile conformations. Material and structural properties are key factors in determining mesh biochemical and mechanical compatibility in vivo. The most significant results on vaginal tissue and surgical meshes mechanical characterization are here reported and discussed. Moreover, computational models of the pelvic region, which could support the surgeon in the evaluation of mesh performances in physiological conditions, are recalled.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Todros
- Department of Industrial Engineering, Centre for Mechanics of Biological Materials, University of Padova, via Marzolo 9, I-35131 Padova, Italy.
| | - P G Pavan
- Department of Industrial Engineering, Centre for Mechanics of Biological Materials, University of Padova, via Marzolo 9, I-35131 Padova, Italy
| | - A N Natali
- Department of Industrial Engineering, Centre for Mechanics of Biological Materials, University of Padova, via Marzolo 9, I-35131 Padova, Italy
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Jallah Z, Liang R, Feola A, Barone W, Palcsey S, Abramowitch SD, Yoshimura N, Moalli P. The impact of prolapse mesh on vaginal smooth muscle structure and function. BJOG 2015; 123:1076-85. [PMID: 26301457 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.13514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/29/2015] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the impact of prolapse meshes on vaginal smooth muscle structure (VaSM) and function, and to evaluate these outcomes in the context of the mechanical and textile properties of the mesh. DESIGN Three months following the implantation of three polypropylene prolapse meshes with distinct textile and mechanical properties, mesh tissue explants were evaluated for smooth muscle contraction, innervation, receptor function, and innervation density. SETTING Magee-Womens Research Institute at the University of Pittsburgh. POPULATION Thirty-four parous rhesus macaques of similar age, parity, and pelvic organ prolapse quantification (POP-Q) scores. METHODS Macaques were implanted with mesh via sacrocolpopexy. The impact of Gynemesh(™) PS (Ethicon; n = 7), Restorelle(®) (Coloplast; n = 7), UltraPro(™) parallel and UltraPro(™) perpendicular (Ethicon; n = 6 and 7, respectively) were compared with sham-operated controls (n = 7). Outcomes were analysed by Kruskal-Wallis ANOVA, Mann-Whitney U-tests and multiple regression analysis (P < 0.05). MEAN OUTCOME MEASURES Vaginal tissue explants were evaluated for the maximum contractile force generated following muscle, nerve, and receptor stimulation, and for peripheral nerve density. RESULTS Muscle myofibre, nerve, and receptor-mediated contractions were negatively affected by mesh only in the grafted region (P < 0.001, P = 0.002, and P = 0.008, respectively), whereas cholinergic and adrenergic nerve densities were affected in the grafted (P = 0.090 and P = 0.008, respectively) and non-grafted (P = 0.009 and P = 0.005, respectively) regions. The impact varied by mesh property, as mesh stiffness was a significant predictor of the negative affect on muscle function and nerve density (P < 0.001 and P = 0.013, respectively), whereas mesh and weight was a predictor of receptor function (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Mesh has an overall negative impact on VaSM, and the effects are a function of mesh properties, most notably, mesh stiffness. TWEETABLE ABSTRACT Prolapse mesh affects vaginal smooth muscle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Jallah
- Musculoskeletal Research Center, Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - R Liang
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Science, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - A Feola
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
| | - W Barone
- Musculoskeletal Research Center, Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - S Palcsey
- Magee-Womens Research Institute, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Science, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - S D Abramowitch
- Musculoskeletal Research Center, Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Magee-Womens Research Institute, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Science, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - N Yoshimura
- Department of Urology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - P Moalli
- Musculoskeletal Research Center, Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.,Magee-Womens Research Institute, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Science, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
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Nazac A, Bancelin S, Teig B, Ibrahim BH, Fernandez H, Schanne-Klein MC, De Martino A. Optimization of Picrosirius red staining protocol to determine collagen fiber orientations in vaginal and uterine cervical tissues by Mueller polarized microscopy. Microsc Res Tech 2015; 78:723-30. [PMID: 26096960 DOI: 10.1002/jemt.22530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2015] [Accepted: 05/14/2015] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
Polarized microscopy provides unique information on anisotropic samples. In its most complete implementation, namely Mueller microscopy, this technique is well suited for the visualization of fibrillar proteins orientations, with collagen in the first place. However, the intrinsic optical anisotropy of unstained tissues has to be enhanced by Picrosirius Red (PR) staining to enable Mueller measurements. In this work, we compared the orientation mapping provided by Mueller and second harmonic generation (SHG) microscopies on PR stained samples of vaginal and uterine cervix tissues. SHG is a multiphoton technique that is highly specific to fibrillar collagen, and was taken as the "gold standard" for its visualization. We showed that Mueller microscopy can be safely used to determine collagen orientation in PR stained cervical tissue. In contrast, in vaginal samples, Mueller microscopy revealed orientations not only of collagen but also of other anisotropic structures. Thus PR is not fully specific to collagen, which necessitates comparison to SHG microscopy in every type of tissue. In addition to this study of PR specificity, we determined the optimal values of the staining parameters. We found that staining times of 5 min, and sample thicknesses of 5 µm were sufficient in cervical and vaginal tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- André Nazac
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Bicêtre Hospital, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France.,Laboratoire De Physique Des Interfaces Et Des Couches Minces (LPICM), Ecole Polytechnique, CNRS, Palaiseau, 91128, France
| | - Stéphane Bancelin
- Laboratoire D'optique Et Biosciences, Ecole Polytechnique, CNRS, INSERM U696, Palaiseau, 91128, France
| | - Benjamin Teig
- Department of Anatomopathology, Bicêtre Hospital, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France
| | - Bicher Haj Ibrahim
- Laboratoire De Physique Des Interfaces Et Des Couches Minces (LPICM), Ecole Polytechnique, CNRS, Palaiseau, 91128, France
| | - Hervé Fernandez
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Bicêtre Hospital, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France.,Paris XI University, Orsay, France
| | | | - Antonello De Martino
- Laboratoire De Physique Des Interfaces Et Des Couches Minces (LPICM), Ecole Polytechnique, CNRS, Palaiseau, 91128, France
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Rhee SH, Zhang P, Hunter K, Mama ST, Caraballo R, Holzberg AS, Seftel RH, Seftel AD, Echols KT, DiSanto ME. Pelvic organ prolapse is associated with alteration of sphingosine-1-phosphate/Rho-kinase signalling pathway in human vaginal wall. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2015; 35:726-32. [DOI: 10.3109/01443615.2015.1004527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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de Landsheere L, Blacher S, Munaut C, Nusgens B, Rubod C, Noel A, Foidart JM, Cosson M, Nisolle M. Changes in elastin density in different locations of the vaginal wall in women with pelvic organ prolapse. Int Urogynecol J 2014; 25:1673-81. [PMID: 24866277 DOI: 10.1007/s00192-014-2431-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2014] [Accepted: 05/01/2014] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS The purpose of this study was to analyze the histomorphometric properties of the vaginal wall in women with pelvic organ prolapse (POP). METHODS In 15 women undergoing surgery for POP, full-thickness biopsies were collected at two different sites of location from the anterior and/or posterior vaginal wall. Properties of the precervical area (POP-Q point C/D) were compared with the most distal portion of the vaginal wall (POP-Q point Ba/Bp) using histological staining and immunohistochemistry. The densities of total collagen fibers, elastic fibers, smooth muscle cells, and blood vessels were determined by combining high-resolution virtual imaging and computer-assisted digital image analysis. RESULTS The mean elastin density was significantly decreased in the lamina propria and muscularis layer of the vaginal wall from the most distal portion of the prolapsed vaginal wall compared with the precervical area. This difference was statistically significant in the lamina propria for both anterior (8.4 ± 1.2 and 12.1 ± 2.0, p = 0.048) and posterior (6.8 ± 0.5 and 10.1 ± 1.4, p = 0.040) locations, and in the muscularis for the anterior (5.2 ± 0.4 and 8.4 ± 1.2, p = 0.009) vaginal wall. There were no statistically significant differences in the mean densities of collagen fibers, smooth muscle cells or blood vessels between the two locations. CONCLUSIONS In this study, we observed changes in elastin density in two different locations of the vaginal wall from women with POP. The histomorphometric properties of the vaginal wall can be variable from one place to another in the same patient. This result supports the existence of most vulnerable locations within the vaginal wall and the potential benefit of site-specific prolapse surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurent de Landsheere
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Liège, CHR La Citadelle, Boulevard du 12e de ligne, no. 1, 4000, Liège, Belgium,
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Lara LADS, Ribeiro da Silva A, Rosa-e-Silva JC, Silva-de-Sá MF, Rosa-e-Silva ACJDS. Estrogen receptor expression and vessel density in the vagina wall in postmenopausal women with prolapse. Tissue Cell 2014; 46:159-64. [PMID: 24768427 DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2014.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2013] [Revised: 02/20/2014] [Accepted: 02/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
After menopause, critically estrogen low levels result in modifications in vaginal wall. This cross-sectional study aims to determine whether there is a change in the number of vessels in the lamina propria of the vagina after menopause in parallel to the ER-alpha expression on the vaginal wall. Twelve women who underwent a genital surgery for genital prolapse up to grade II were selected. They were divided into two groups: a premenopausal group (PG) consisting of six women who were 18-40 years old with FSH levels =12 mIU/ml and regular cycles, and a menopausal group (MG) consisting of six women at least one year after menopause who were <65 years old with FSH levels =40 mIU/ml. Slides were stained for ER-alpha immunohistochemistry, and an endothelial cell marker CD3 was used to label vessels which were identified by using a system for morphometry. The number of vessels was significantly higher in the PG than in the MG both on the anterior wall (PG: 1.055 ± 145.8 vessels/mm(2), MG: 346.6 ± 209.9 vessels/mm(2), p<0.0001) and on the posterior wall (PG: 1064 ± 303.3 vessels/mm(2), MG: 348.6 ± 167.3 vessels/mm(2), p=0.0005). The ER-alpha score was significantly higher in the PG than the score for the MG on both the anterior and posterior walls (PG: 6.0 ± 0.52, MG: 2.5 ± 0.89, p=0.007; PG: 5.8 ± 0.79, MG: 2.7 ± 0.95, p=0.03, respectively). There was a positive correlation between the ER-alpha score and the vessel concentration on the anterior (r=0.6656, p=0.018) and posterior (r=0.6738, p=0.016) vaginal walls. Age was strongly negatively correlated with vessel concentration on the vaginal walls (respectively r=-0.9033, p<0.0001, r=-0.7440, p=0.0055). Therefore, postmenopausal women with genital prolapse have a smaller number of vessels on the vaginal wall compared to normoestrogenic controls with the same pathological condition. Hypoestrogenism and advancing age are factors that are associated to these changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lúcia Alves da Silva Lara
- Sexual Medicine Service of Human Reproduction Sector, Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics of the Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo University, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
| | - Alfredo Ribeiro da Silva
- Department of Pathology of the Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo University, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
| | - Julio Cesar Rosa-e-Silva
- Sexual Medicine Service of Human Reproduction Sector, Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics of the Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo University, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
| | - Marcos Felipe Silva-de-Sá
- Sexual Medicine Service of Human Reproduction Sector, Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics of the Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo University, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
| | - Ana Carolina Japur de Sá Rosa-e-Silva
- Sexual Medicine Service of Human Reproduction Sector, Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics of the Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo University, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
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Han L, Wang L, Wang Q, Li H, Zang H. Association between pelvic organ prolapse and stress urinary incontinence with collagen. Exp Ther Med 2014; 7:1337-1341. [PMID: 24940435 PMCID: PMC3991483 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2014.1563] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2013] [Accepted: 01/21/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to investigate the ultrastructure and content of collagen in uterosacral ligaments and paraurethral tissues in patients with pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and stress urinary incontinence (SUI), analyzing the association between POP and collagen dysfunction. The study comprised three groups: Control, POP and POP with SUI (n=30 per group). Histological characteristics of collagen fiber were observed and the diameters were measured using light and electron microscopy to determine the Type I and Type III collagen content of the main ligament in the urethral specimens. In the POP and POP with SUI groups, observations included diffuse atrophy of smooth muscles, active fibroblast metabolism, swollen mitochondria and visible Golgi apparatus. The collagen fibril diameters in the cardinal ligaments, uterosacral ligaments and paraurethral tissues were significantly greater in the POP and POP with SUI groups compared with those in the control group (P<0.01). In addition, the expression levels of Type I and Type III collagen were significantly lower in the POP and POP with SUI groups when compared with the control group (P<0.01). In the POP with SUI group, pelvic tissues were frail, resulting in smooth muscle bundles comminuting and arranging in a disorganized pattern. Fibroblast and myoblast metabolisms were active and new microvascular cells were weak. However, the collagen fibril diameter increased. Thus, collagen and ultrastructural changes in the pelvic floor may be associated with the development of POP and SUI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liying Han
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130041, P.R. China
| | - Ling Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130041, P.R. China
| | - Qiang Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130041, P.R. China
| | - Helian Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Second Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130041, P.R. China
| | - Hu Zang
- Department of Orthopedics, The China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, Jilin 130033, P.R. China
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Kerkhof MH, Ruiz-Zapata AM, Bril H, Bleeker MC, Belien JA, Stoop R, Helder MN. Changes in tissue composition of the vaginal wall of premenopausal women with prolapse. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2014; 210:168.e1-9. [PMID: 24184181 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2013.10.881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2013] [Revised: 09/15/2013] [Accepted: 10/29/2013] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to compare histological and biochemical features of the (normal) precervical anterior vaginal wall and the prolapsed anterior vaginal wall of women with pelvic organ prolapse (POP). These data were compared to tissue of the precervical anterior vaginal wall of age-matched controls without POP to identify possible intrinsic and acquired effects. STUDY DESIGN Biopsies were collected from the apex of the anterior vaginal cuff after hysterectomy from a control group of 13 premenopausal women undergoing hysterectomy for benign gynecological diseases, and a case group of 13 premenopausal women undergoing prolapse surgery (cystocele POP-Quantification stage ≥2). In women with POP an additional full-thickness vaginal wall sample was taken from the POP site during anterior colporrhaphy. Histomorphometric and biochemical analysis were performed for different components of the extracellular matrix. RESULTS There were no differences between case and control group in the precervical vaginal wall tissue with respect to the different components of the extracellular matrix and the biochemical parameters. However, there was a tendency toward a higher amount of collagen III and elastin, and a significant increase of smooth muscle cells and pyridinoline collagen cross-links in the POP site compared to the non-POP site of the same POP patient. CONCLUSION Our findings suggest that the changes seen in connective tissue in the anterior vaginal wall of women with POP are the effect, rather than the cause, of POP.
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