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Chen S, Zheng Q, Zhang L, Chen L, Wang J. Effect of Vaginal Microecological Alterations on Female Pelvic Organ Prolapse. Int Urogynecol J 2024; 35:881-891. [PMID: 38488886 PMCID: PMC11052768 DOI: 10.1007/s00192-024-05759-7] [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: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS The objective was to investigate the correlation between endogenous vaginal microecological alterations and female pelvic organ prolapse (POP). METHODS Patients who underwent vaginal hysterectomy were retrospectively analyzed as the POP group (n = 30) and the non-POP group (n = 30). The vaginal microbial metabolites and enzyme levels were tested using the dry chemoenzymatic method. The mRNA and protein expression were tested using real-time quantitative PCR and immunohistochemistry. SPSS version 25.0 and GraphPad Prism 8.0 were performed for statistical analysis. RESULTS Compared with the non-POP group, the vaginal pH, H2O2 positivity and leukocyte esterase positivity were higher in patients with POP (all p < 0.05). Further analysis showed that patients with pelvic organ prolapse quantification (POP-Q) stage IV had higher rates of vaginal pH, H2O2 positivity and leukocyte esterase positivity than those with POP-Q stage III. Additionally, the mRNA expression of decorin (DCN), transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1), and matrix metalloproteinase-3 (MMP-3) in uterosacral ligament tissues were higher, whereas collagen I and III were lower. Similarly, the positive expression of MMP-3 in uterosacral ligament tissue was significantly upregulated in the POP group compared with the non-POP group (p = 0.035), whereas collagen I (p = 0.004) and collagen III (p = 0.019) in uterosacral ligament tissue were significantly downregulated in the POP group. Correlation analysis revealed that there was a significant correlation between vaginal microecology and collagen metabolism. In addition, MMP-3 correlated negatively with collagen I and collagen III (p = 0.002, r = -0.533; p = 0.002, r = -0.534 respectively), whereas collagen I correlated positively with collagen III (p = 0.001, r = 0.578). CONCLUSIONS Vaginal microecological dysbiosis affects the occurrence of female POP, which could be considered a novel therapeutic option.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaozhan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fujian Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Cancer, the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, 20 Chazhong Road, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350005, People's Republic of China
- Department of Gynecology, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, 999 Huashan Road, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350212, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiaomei Zheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fujian Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Cancer, the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, 20 Chazhong Road, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350005, People's Republic of China
- Department of Gynecology, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, 999 Huashan Road, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350212, People's Republic of China
| | - Limin Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fujian Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Cancer, the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, 20 Chazhong Road, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350005, People's Republic of China
- Department of Gynecology, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, 999 Huashan Road, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350212, People's Republic of China
| | - Lihong Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fujian Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Cancer, the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, 20 Chazhong Road, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350005, People's Republic of China.
- Department of Gynecology, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, 999 Huashan Road, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350212, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jinhua Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Fujian Key Laboratory of Precision Medicine for Cancer, the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, 20 Chazhong Road, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350005, People's Republic of China.
- Department of Gynecology, National Regional Medical Center, Binhai Campus of the First Affiliated Hospital, Fujian Medical University, 999 Huashan Road, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350212, People's Republic of China.
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van Velthoven MJJ, Gudde AN, van der Kruit M, van Loon MPC, Rasing L, Wagener FADTG, Roovers JP, Guler Z, Kouwer PHJ. An Improved Understanding of the Pathophysiology of Pelvic Organ Prolapse: A 3D In Vitro Model under Static and Mechanical Loading Conditions. Adv Healthc Mater 2024; 13:e2302905. [PMID: 38219051 DOI: 10.1002/adhm.202302905] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
The suboptimal outcomes of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) surgery illustrate the demand for improved therapies. However, their development is hampered by the limited knowledge on the cellular pathophysiology of POP. Current investigations, that are limited to tissues and 2D in vitro models, provide highly inconclusive results on how the extracellular matrix (ECM) metabolism and fibroblasts are affected in POP. This study uses a physiologically relevant 3D in vitro model to investigate the cellular pathophysiology of POP by determining the differences between POP and non-POP fibroblasts on ECM metabolism, proliferation, and fibroblast-to-myofibroblast (FMT) transition. This model, based on the synthetic and biomimetic polyisocyanide hydrogel, enables the incorporation of mechanical loading, which simulates the forces exerted on the pelvic floor. Under static conditions, 3D cultured POP fibroblasts are less proliferative, undergo FMT, and exhibit lower collagen and elastin contents compared to non-POP fibroblasts. However, under mechanical loading, the differences between POP and non-POP fibroblasts are less pronounced. This study contributes to the development of more comprehensive models that can accurately mimic the POP pathophysiology, which will aid in an enhanced understanding and may contribute to improved therapies in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa J J van Velthoven
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, Nijmegen, 6525 AJ, The Netherlands
- Department of Urology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 28, Nijmegen, 6525 GA, The Netherlands
| | - Aksel N Gudde
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, location AMC, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, 1105 AZ, The Netherlands
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam University Medical Center, location AMC, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, 1105 AZ, The Netherlands
| | - Marit van der Kruit
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, Nijmegen, 6525 AJ, The Netherlands
- Department of Urology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 28, Nijmegen, 6525 GA, The Netherlands
| | - Malou P C van Loon
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, Nijmegen, 6525 AJ, The Netherlands
- Department of Urology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 28, Nijmegen, 6525 GA, The Netherlands
| | - Lissy Rasing
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, Nijmegen, 6525 AJ, The Netherlands
- Department of Urology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 28, Nijmegen, 6525 GA, The Netherlands
| | - Frank A D T G Wagener
- Department of Dentistry-Orthodontics and Craniofacial Biology, Radboud Institute for Molecular Life Sciences, Radboud University Medical Center, Philips van Leydenlaan 25, Nijmegen, 6525 EX, The Netherlands
| | - Jan-Paul Roovers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, location AMC, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, 1105 AZ, The Netherlands
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam University Medical Center, location AMC, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, 1105 AZ, The Netherlands
| | - Zeliha Guler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Amsterdam University Medical Center, location AMC, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, 1105 AZ, The Netherlands
- Reproductive Biology Laboratory, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam University Medical Center, location AMC, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, 1105 AZ, The Netherlands
| | - Paul H J Kouwer
- Institute for Molecules and Materials, Radboud University, Heyendaalseweg 135, Nijmegen, 6525 AJ, The Netherlands
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Liu X, Su M, Wei L, Zhang J, Wang W, Hao Q, Lin X, Wang L. Single-cell analysis of uterosacral ligament revealed cellular heterogeneity in women with pelvic organ prolapse. Commun Biol 2024; 7:159. [PMID: 38326542 PMCID: PMC10850063 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-024-05808-3] [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: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) markedly affects the quality of life of women, including significant financial burden. Using single-cell RNA sequencing, we constructed a transcriptional profile of 30,452 single cells of the uterosacral ligament in POP and control samples, which has never been constructed before. We identified 10 major cell types, including smooth muscle cells, endothelial cells, fibroblasts, neutrophils, macrophages, monocytes, mast cells, T cells, B cells, and dendritic cells. We performed subpopulation analysis and pseudo-time analysis of POP primary cells, and explored differentially expressed genes. We verified previous cell clusters of human neutrophils of uterosacral ligaments. We found a significant reduction in receptor-ligand pairs related to ECM and cell adhesion between fibroblasts and endothelial cells in POP. The transcription factors related to the extracellular matrix, development, and immunity were identified in USL. Here we provide insight into the molecular mechanisms of POP and valuable information for future research directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaochun Liu
- Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, 030032, Taiyuan, China.
| | - Minna Su
- Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, 030032, Taiyuan, China
| | - Lingyun Wei
- Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, 030032, Taiyuan, China
| | - Jia Zhang
- Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, 030032, Taiyuan, China
| | - Wenzhen Wang
- Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, 030032, Taiyuan, China
| | - Qian Hao
- Taiyuan Health School, 030012, Taiyuan, China
| | - Xiling Lin
- Shanxi Bethune Hospital, Shanxi Academy of Medical Sciences, Tongji Shanxi Hospital, Third Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, 030032, Taiyuan, China
| | - Lili Wang
- Taiyuan University of Technology, 030024, Taiyuan, China
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Gubarkova E, Potapov A, Moiseev A, Kiseleva E, Krupinova D, Shatilova K, Karabut M, Khlopkov A, Loginova M, Radenska-Lopovok S, Gelikonov G, Grechkanev G, Gladkova N, Sirotkina M. Depth-Resolved Attenuation Mapping of the Vaginal Wall under Prolapse and after Laser Treatment Using Cross-Polarization Optical Coherence Tomography: A Pilot Study. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:3487. [PMID: 37998623 PMCID: PMC10670580 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13223487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaginal wall prolapse is the most common type of pelvic organ prolapse and is mainly associated with collagen bundle changes in the lamina propria. Neodymium (Nd:YAG) laser treatment was used as an innovative, minimally invasive and non-ablative procedure for the treatment of early-stage vaginal wall prolapse. The purpose of this pilot study was to assess connective tissue changes in the vaginal wall under prolapse without treatment and after Nd:YAG laser treatment using cross-polarization optical coherence tomography (CP OCT) with depth-resolved attenuation mapping. A total of 26 freshly excised samples of vaginal wall from 26 patients with age norm (n = 8), stage I-II prolapses without treatment (n = 8) and stage I-II prolapse 1-2 months after Nd:YAG laser treatment (n = 10) were assessed. As a result, for the first time, depth-resolved attenuation maps of the vaginal wall in the B-scan projection in the co- and cross-polarization channels were constructed. Two parameters within the lamina propria were target calculated: the median value and the percentages of high (≥4 mm-1) and low (<4 mm-1) attenuation coefficient values. A significant (p < 0.0001) decrease in the parameters in the case of vaginal wall prolapse compared to the age norm was identified. After laser treatment, a significant (p < 0.0001) increase in the parameters compared to the normal level was also observed. Notably, in the cross-channel, both parameters showed a greater difference between the groups than in the co-channel. Therefore, using the cross-channel achieved more reliable differentiation between the groups. To conclude, attenuation coefficient maps allow visualization and quantification of changes in the condition of the connective tissue of the vaginal wall. In the future, CP OCT could be used for in vivo detection of early-stage vaginal wall prolapse and for monitoring the effectiveness of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekaterina Gubarkova
- Institute of Experimental Oncology and Biomedical Technologies, Privolzhsky Research Medical University, 603950 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
- Center of Photonics, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, 603950 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Arseniy Potapov
- Institute of Experimental Oncology and Biomedical Technologies, Privolzhsky Research Medical University, 603950 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Alexander Moiseev
- Institute of Applied Physics of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 603950 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Elena Kiseleva
- Institute of Experimental Oncology and Biomedical Technologies, Privolzhsky Research Medical University, 603950 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Darya Krupinova
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Privolzhsky Research Medical University, 603950 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
- Nizhny Novgorod Regional Oncologic Hospital, 603126 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | | | - Maria Karabut
- Institute of Experimental Oncology and Biomedical Technologies, Privolzhsky Research Medical University, 603950 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | | | - Maria Loginova
- Institute of Experimental Oncology and Biomedical Technologies, Privolzhsky Research Medical University, 603950 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
- Center of Photonics, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, 603950 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Stefka Radenska-Lopovok
- Institute of Experimental Oncology and Biomedical Technologies, Privolzhsky Research Medical University, 603950 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
- Institute of Clinical Morphology and Digital Pathology, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Grigory Gelikonov
- Institute of Applied Physics of the Russian Academy of Sciences, 603950 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Gennady Grechkanev
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Privolzhsky Research Medical University, 603950 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Natalia Gladkova
- Institute of Experimental Oncology and Biomedical Technologies, Privolzhsky Research Medical University, 603950 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
| | - Marina Sirotkina
- Institute of Experimental Oncology and Biomedical Technologies, Privolzhsky Research Medical University, 603950 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
- Center of Photonics, Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, 603950 Nizhny Novgorod, Russia
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Yu JZ, Wen J, Ying Y, Yin W, Zhang SQ, Pang WL, Wang C, Bian Y, Yuan JL, Yan JY, Yang ZS. Astragaloside trigger autophagy: Implication a potential therapeutic strategy for pulmonary fibrosis. Biomed Pharmacother 2022; 154:113603. [PMID: 36942596 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.113603] [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: 06/18/2022] [Revised: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary fibrosis is an abnormal wound-healing response to repeated alveolar injury, characterized by continuous inflammation and abnormal collagen deposition. Its treatment is problematic. Astragaloside (AST) is an active component of Astragalus membranaceus with anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties. Although the underlying mechanisms are unknown, AST is also used to treat fibrotic diseases. This study aimed to investigate the mechanisms of action of AST in pulmonary fibrosis treatment. We found that AST significantly improved restrictive ventilatory impairment, compliance, total lung capacity, and functional residual capacity. In mice with pulmonary fibrosis, extracellular matrix deposition in the pulmonary parenchyma and intemperate inflammation were reversed. This therapeutic effect can be attributed to autophagy, activating the genes for autophagy flux and autophagic vacuoles. Impaired autophagy increased susceptibility to pulmonary fibrosis by exacerbating collagen deposition in vitro and in vivo. Using a combination of molecular docking and network pharmacology, the Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK signaling pathway was identified as a possible candidate for the pharmacologic target of AST. Functional dephosphorylation of MEK and ERK inhibited the Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK signaling pathway, which converges at the rapamycin switch to initiate autophagy. Inhibitors of Ras and MEK regulated autophagy. These findings suggest that AST might treat pulmonary fibrosis by modulating the Ras/Raf/MEK/ERK signaling pathway mediated by depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing-Ze Yu
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Sinomedicine, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, Yunnan, China; The Key Laboratory of Molecular Epigenetics of MOE, Institute of Genetics and Cytology, Northeast Normal University, Changchun, Jilin, China
| | - Jing Wen
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Sinomedicine, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Yi Ying
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Sinomedicine, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, Yunnan, China; Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Wen Yin
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Sinomedicine, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Si-Qi Zhang
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Sinomedicine, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Wen-Ling Pang
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Sinomedicine, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Cui Wang
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Sinomedicine, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Yao Bian
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Sinomedicine, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Jia-Li Yuan
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Sinomedicine, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, Yunnan, China
| | - Jin-Yuan Yan
- Central Laboratory, Kunming Medical University Second Hospital, Kunming, Yunnan, China.
| | - Zhong-Shan Yang
- Yunnan Provincial Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology for Sinomedicine, Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine, Kunming, Yunnan, China.
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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: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [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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Donaldson K, Huntington A, De Vita R. Mechanics of Uterosacral Ligaments: Current Knowledge, Existing Gaps, and Future Directions. Ann Biomed Eng 2021; 49:1788-1804. [PMID: 33754254 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-021-02755-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The uterosacral ligaments (USLs) are important anatomical structures that support the uterus and apical vagina within the pelvis. As these structures are over-stretched, become weak, and exhibit laxity, pelvic floor disorders such as pelvic organ prolapse occur. Although several surgical procedures to treat pelvic floor disorders are directed toward the USLs, there is still a lot that is unknown about their function. This manuscript presents a review of the current knowledge on the mechanical properties of the USLs. The anatomy, microstructure, and clinical significance of the USLs are first reviewed. Then, the results of published experimental studies on the in vivo and ex vivo, uniaxial and biaxial tensile tests are compiled. Based on the existing findings, research gaps are identified and future research directions are discussed. The purpose of this exhaustive review is to help new researchers navigate scientific literature on the mechanical properties of the USLs. The use of these structures remains very popular in reconstructive surgeries that restore and augment the support of pelvic organs, especially as synthetic surgical mesh implants continue to be highly controversial.
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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: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [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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Zhang L, Dai F, Chen G, Wang Y, Liu S, Zhang L, Xian S, Yuan M, Yang D, Zheng Y, Deng Z, Cheng Y, Yang X. Molecular mechanism of extracellular matrix disorder in pelvic organ prolapses. Mol Med Rep 2020; 22:4611-4618. [PMID: 33173982 PMCID: PMC7646844 DOI: 10.3892/mmr.2020.11564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Pelvic organ prolapses (POP) notably reduces the quality of life in elderly populations due to bladder and bowel dysfunction, incontinence, and coital problems. Extracellular matrix (ECM) disorder is a pivotal event in the progression of POP, but to date, its specific underlying mechanism remains unclear. The ligaments of patients with POP and healthy controls were collected to compare the expression of Homeobox11 (HOXA11) and transforming growth factor β (TGF-β1) via immunohistochemical analysis. HOXA11 and TGF-β1 were overexpressed or knocked down in fibroblast cells to explore their effects on the expression of collagen and matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). HOXA11 and TGF-β1 were greatly reduced in the ligaments of patients with POP. The overexpression and downregulation of HOXA11 and TGF-β1 can mediate ECM disorder via regulating expression of collagen (Col) and MMPs. In addition, HOXA11 and TGF-β1 exerted synergistic effect on the expression of Col and MMPs. The present study identified that HOXA11 and TGF-β1 serve critical roles in mediating ECM disorders, which may be of clinical significance for the diagnosis and treatment of patients with POP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liping Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
| | - Fangfang Dai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Gantao Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Third People's Hospital of Xiantao in Hubei Province, Xiantao, Hubei 433000, P.R. China
| | - Yanqing Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Shiyi Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Shu Xian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Mengqin Yuan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Dongyong Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Yajing Zheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Zhimin Deng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Yanxiang Cheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei 430060, P.R. China
| | - Xiaofeng Yang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710061, P.R. China
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Evaluation of extracellular matrix protein expression and apoptosis in the uterosacral ligaments of patients with or without pelvic organ prolapse. Int Urogynecol J 2020; 32:2273-2281. [PMID: 32737532 DOI: 10.1007/s00192-020-04446-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2020] [Accepted: 07/14/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS This study aimed to compare the expression levels of extracellular matrix (ECM) and apoptosis proteins in the uterosacral ligament (USL) of patients with and without pelvic organ prolapse (POP). METHODS The USL were obtained from patients with POP-Q ≥ III (n = 35) and without POP (n = 20). Immunohistochemistry (IHC) staining and RT-qPCR were conducted to assess the protein and mRNA levels, respectively. The levels of type I collagen (COLI), type III collagen (COLIII), matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)1, MMP2, MMP9, tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP)1, TIMP2, estrogen receptor (ER)α, ERβ and apoptosis-related gene B cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2)-associated agonist of cell death (Bad) and Bcl-2-associated X (Bax) in the USL were analyzed. RESULTS The protein expression and mRNA levels of MMP2 and MMP9, mRNA levels of BAD and BAX, and protein expression of active cleaved-Caspase3 were significantly higher in the POP group. There were no evident differences in COLIII, MMP1 or ERβ expression at either the mRNA or protein level or in TIMP1, TIMP2 or Caspase3 by IHC between the two groups. However, obvious decreases in COLI and ERα were evident at both the mRNA and protein levels in the POP group, and the mRNA levels of TIMP1 and TIMP2 were also decreased compared to those of the control group. CONCLUSION ECM in the USL tissues of POP patients is remodeled compared with non-POP patients and is characterized by decreased synthesis and increased degradation of collagen; moreover, the levels of the main proteins involved in apoptosis are increased in POP tissue.
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Changes in β-Catenin Expression in the Anterior Vaginal Wall Tissues of Women With Pelvic Organ Prolapse: A Potential Pathophysiological Mechanism. Female Pelvic Med Reconstr Surg 2019; 26:e54-e61. [PMID: 31596772 DOI: 10.1097/spv.0000000000000782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to investigate the expression of β-catenin in the lamina propria of the anterior vaginal wall of women with pelvic organ prolapse (POP) compared with the expression in the controls. METHODS Anterior vaginal wall tissues were obtained from women undergoing POP surgery for stage 3 or greater POP (POP group, n = 30; age, 58 ± 7.839 years), with a menopause rate of 70%, and from women without POP undergoing hysterectomy for benign indications (control group, n = 30; age, 54.7 ± 7.173 years), with a menopause rate of 50%. Hematoxylin and eosin staining and Masson trichrome staining were performed on anterior vaginal wall sections. β-Catenin, p-β-catenin, glycogen synthase kinase 3β (GSK3β), p-GSK3β, collagen I, collagen III, MMP2, MMP9, TIMP2, caspase 3, proliferating cell nuclear antigen, and cyclin D1 were evaluated using immunohistochemical analysis. Lamina propria tissues were obtained for Western blot analyses. RESULTS Hematoxylin and eosin staining and Masson trichrome staining showed that the collagen fibers were more disorganized and fragmented in the POP group than in the control group. In the POP samples, β-catenin (mean density, POP vs control, 0.43 ± 0.13 vs 0.58 ± 0.16), p-GSK3β, collagen I, collagen III, proliferating cell nuclear antigen, and cyclin D1 were downregulated in the lamina propria, whereas in the control group, p-β-catenin, TIMP2, and caspase 3 were downregulated (P < 0.05 for all). GSK3β was not different between the 2 groups (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION We demonstrated that decreased β-catenin may play an important role in the onset of POP by affecting collagen anabolism.
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Carrozzo U, Toniato M, Harrison A. Assessment of Noninvasive Low-Frequency Ultrasound as a Means of Treating Injuries to Suspensory Ligaments in Horses: A Research Paper. J Equine Vet Sci 2019; 80:80-89. [PMID: 31443840 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2019.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Therapeutic ultrasound is a noninvasive technique, which is well tolerated by horses, does not need sedation, and can easily be performed in a routine clinical setting. Twenty-three client-owned sport horses were recruited at Clinica Equina San Biagio and included in this case study. Treatment of the injured suspensory ligament apparatus was administered using an EQ Pro, low-frequency therapeutic unit (38 kHz). The noninvasive treatment consisted of massaging the injured area in combination with a traditional ultrasound gel while maintaining the head of the device in direct contact with the injured area. The results indicate that 20 of the 23 horses in this study benefitted from EQ Pro treatment and, following a routine rehabilitation program, returned to competition status: a success rate of 87%. Furthermore, treatment duration was 3.3 ± 0.4 weeks on average, with a healthy outcome as assessed by ultrasound at 6.8 ± 1.9 weeks. Among the 23 horses in this study, 65% of them benefitted from EQ Pro treatment of a duration of just ≤3.3 weeks. It is concluded that EQ Pro therapy is a promising and effective form of treatment for horses with suspensory ligament injury. It is furthermore rapid and easy to use in the Equine Veterinary Clinic setting and does not require sedation. Future studies should now focus on the mechanisms by which this new treatment activates the healing process of the suspensory ligaments of injured horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ugo Carrozzo
- Clinica Equina San Biagio, San Biagio di Argenta, FE, Italy.
| | - Matteo Toniato
- Clinica Equina San Biagio, San Biagio di Argenta, FE, Italy
| | - Adrian Harrison
- Department of Pathobiological Sciences, Faculty of Health & Medical Science, Copenhagen University, Frederiksberg C, Copenhagen, Denmark
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