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Seraj H, Nazari MA, Atai AA, Amanpour S, Azadi M. A Review: Biomechanical Aspects of the Fallopian Tube Relevant to its Function in Fertility. Reprod Sci 2024; 31:1456-1485. [PMID: 38472710 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-024-01479-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024]
Abstract
The fallopian tube (FT) plays a crucial role in the reproductive process by providing an ideal biomechanical and biochemical environment for fertilization and early embryo development. Despite its importance, the biomechanical functions of the FT that originate from its morphological aspects, and ultrastructural aspects, as well as the mechanical properties of FT, have not been studied nor used sufficiently, which limits the understanding of fertilization, mechanotrasduction, and mechanobiology during embryo development, as well as the replication of the FT in laboratory settings for infertility treatments. This paper reviews and revives valuable information on human FT reported in medical literature in the past five decades relevant to the biomechanical aspects of FT. In this review, we summarized the current state of knowledge concerning the morphological, ultrastructural aspects, and mechanical properties of the human FT. We also investigate the potential arising from a thorough consideration of the biomechanical functions and exploring often neglected mechanical aspects. Our investigation encompasses both macroscopic measurements (such as length, diameter, and thickness) and microscopic measurements (including the height of epithelial cells, the percentage of ciliated cells, cilia structure, and ciliary beat frequency). Our primary focus has been on healthy women of reproductive age. We have examined various measurement techniques, encompassing conventional metrology, 2D histological data as well as new spatial measurement techniques such as micro-CT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hasan Seraj
- School of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ali Nazari
- School of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran.
- Department of Speech and Cognition, CNRS UMR 5216, Grenoble Institute of Technology, Grenoble, France.
| | - Ali Asghar Atai
- School of Mechanical Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeid Amanpour
- Vali-E-Asr Reproductive Health Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Cancer Biology Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mojtaba Azadi
- School of Engineering, College of Science and Engineering, San Francisco State University, San Francisco, CA, USA.
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2
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Hunter MI, Thies KM, Winuthayanon W. Hormonal regulation of cilia in the female reproductive tract. CURRENT OPINION IN ENDOCRINE AND METABOLIC RESEARCH 2024; 34:100503. [PMID: 38293616 PMCID: PMC10824531 DOI: 10.1016/j.coemr.2024.100503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
This review intends to bridge the gap between our knowledge of steroid hormone regulation of motile cilia and the potential involvement of the primary cilium focusing on the female reproductive tract functions. The review emphasizes hormonal regulation of the motile and primary cilia in the oviduct and uterus. Steroid hormones including estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone act through their cognate receptors to regulate the development and biological function of the reproductive tracts. These hormones modulate motile ciliary beating and, in some cases, primary cilia function. Dysfunction of motile or primary cilia due to genetic anomalies, hormone imbalances, or loss of steroid hormone receptors impairs mammalian fertility. However, further research on hormone modulation of ciliary function, especially in the primary cilium, and its signaling cascades will provide insights into the pathogenesis of mammalian infertility and the development of contraceptives or infertility treatments targeting primary and/or motile cilia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark I. Hunter
- OB/GYN & Women’s Health Department, School of Medicine, University of Missouri – Columbia, Columbia, MO, 65211, United States
| | - Karen M. Thies
- OB/GYN & Women’s Health Department, School of Medicine, University of Missouri – Columbia, Columbia, MO, 65211, United States
| | - Wipawee Winuthayanon
- OB/GYN & Women’s Health Department, School of Medicine, University of Missouri – Columbia, Columbia, MO, 65211, United States
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3
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Xia T, Umezu K, Scully DM, Wang S, Larina IV. In vivo volumetric depth-resolved imaging of cilia metachronal waves using dynamic optical coherence tomography. OPTICA 2023; 10:1439-1451. [PMID: 38665775 PMCID: PMC11044847 DOI: 10.1364/optica.499927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Motile cilia are dynamic hair-like structures covering epithelial surfaces in multiple organs. The periodic coordinated beating of cilia creates waves propagating along the surface, known as the metachronal waves, which transport fluids and mucus along the epithelium. Motile ciliopathies result from disrupted coordinated cilia beating and are associated with serious clinical complications, including reproductive disorders. Despite the recognized clinical significance, research of cilia dynamics is extremely limited. Here, we present quantitative imaging of cilia metachronal waves volumetrically through tissue layers using dynamic optical coherence tomography (OCT). Our method relies on spatiotemporal mapping of the phase of intensity fluctuations in OCT images caused by the ciliary beating. We validated our new method ex vivo and implemented it in vivo to visualize cilia metachronal wave propagation within the mouse fallopian tube. This method can be extended to the assessment of physiological cilia function and ciliary dyskinesias in various organ systems, contributing to better management of pathologies associated with motile ciliopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Xia
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Kohei Umezu
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Deirdre M. Scully
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Shang Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stevens Institute of Technology, Hoboken, New Jersey 07030, USA
| | - Irina V. Larina
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
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Hernández-Silva G, Vega CC, Barrera D, Hernández-Pando R, García-Uribe PÁ, Chirinos M, Larrea F. Gene Expression Changes in the Ovary Mediate Non-Anovulatory Mechanisms of Contraception with Levonorgestrel. Arch Med Res 2023; 54:102892. [PMID: 37804815 DOI: 10.1016/j.arcmed.2023.102892] [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: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Emergency contraception with levonorgestrel (LNG) is a viable option to prevent unintended pregnancies. Although the efficacy of LNG as an anovulatory agent decreases as treatment approaches ovulation, it still provides some contraceptive benefits. AIM To better understand the contraceptive mechanisms of LNG in ovulatory subjects. METHODS We conducted a study on Wistar rats that received a single dose of LNG (0.01 or 0.05 mg/kg) on the morning of proestrus before ovulation and evaluated its effects on ovarian gene expression, ovulation, and implantation. RESULTS Our findings showed changes in the expression of genes involved in follicular development and oocyte quality. Pregnancy rates - as an indicator of ovulation - and embryo implantation were significantly lower than those in the control group. CONCLUSIONS This study suggests that LNG alters regulatory factors in the ovary that are essential for the development of competent fertilizable oocytes, highlighting the non-anovulatory mechanisms by which levonorgestrel may regulate fertility and suggesting that it could be a novel observation that contributes to the understanding of emergency contraception in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriela Hernández-Silva
- Reproductive Biology Department Dr. Carlos Gual Castro, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Claudia Cecilia Vega
- Reproductive Biology Department Dr. Carlos Gual Castro, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - David Barrera
- Reproductive Biology Department Dr. Carlos Gual Castro, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Rogelio Hernández-Pando
- Experimental Pathology Lab, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Pablo Ángel García-Uribe
- Reproductive Biology Department Dr. Carlos Gual Castro, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Mayel Chirinos
- Reproductive Biology Department Dr. Carlos Gual Castro, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico.
| | - Fernando Larrea
- Reproductive Biology Department Dr. Carlos Gual Castro, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Mexico City, Mexico.
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Zhang D, Zhu Q, Xia W, Zhu C, Zhao X, Zhang Y, He C, Ji S, Li X, Zhang J. The role of SK3 in progesterone-induced inhibition of human fallopian tubal contraction. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:73. [PMID: 35488306 PMCID: PMC9052544 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-00932-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Normal motor activity of the fallopian tube is critical for human reproduction, and abnormal tubal activity may lead to ectopic pregnancy (EP) or infertility. Progesterone has an inhibitory effect on tubal contraction; however, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Small-conductance calcium-activated K+ channel 3 (SK3) is abundantly expressed in platelet-derived growth factor receptor α positive (PDGFRα+) cells and was reported to be important for the relaxation of smooth muscle. The present study aims to explore the expression of SK3 in the human fallopian tube and its role in progesterone-induced inhibition of tubal contraction. METHODS We collected specimens of fallopian tubes from patients treated by salpingectomy for EP (EP group) and other benign gynecological diseases (Non-EP group). The expression of SK3 was detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, western blot, immunocytochemistry, and immunohistochemistry analyses. Isometric tension experiments were performed to investigate the role of SK3 in progesterone-induced inhibition of tubal contraction. RESULTS The baseline amplitude and frequency of human fallopian tube contraction were both statistically lower in the EP group compared with the non-EP group. The expression levels of SK3 in different portions of fallopian tubes from the non-EP group were significantly higher than in those from the EP group. Progesterone had an inhibitory effect on tubal contraction, mainly on the amplitude, in both groups, and SK3 as well as other calcium-activated K+ channels may be involved. SK3-expressing PDGFRα (+) cells were detected in the human fallopian tube. CONCLUSIONS The expression of SK3 is lower in the EP group, and SK3 is involved in the progesterone-induced inhibition of human fallopian tube contraction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duo Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, 200030, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Qian Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, 200030, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Wei Xia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, 200030, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Chenfeng Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, 200030, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Xiaoya Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, 200030, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Yiqin Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, 200030, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Chuqing He
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, 200030, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Sifan Ji
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, 200030, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, 200030, China
| | - Xiaocui Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China.
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, 200030, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, 200030, China.
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6
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Rabadia JP, Desai TR, Thite VS. Plumeria acuminata: A Systematic in vivo Evaluation for Its Anti-ovulatory and Anti-Implantation Features. CURRENT DRUG THERAPY 2022. [DOI: 10.2174/1574885517666220426101516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Background:
Fertility control becomes necessary for under-developed and developing nations for the betterment of the economy, environment, and society. Plant Plumeria acuminata, “Temple tree or Frangipani”, of the Apocynaceae family has exhibited several activities similar to contraceptive medicine and is widely distributed in India.
Objective:
Present investigation aimed to study the anti-ovulatory and anti-implantation activities of ethanolic extract from P. acuminata leaves and roots in Wistar rats.
Methods:
Ethanolic extracts of P. acuminata leaves and roots were subjected to qualitative phytochemical analysis and acute toxicity test. Immature female rats were used to explore anti-ovulatory characteristics administering HCG as a standard ovulation-inducing drug. Mated females were used for exploring anti-implantation characteristics. Levonorgestrel and Ethinylestradiol were administered as standard anti-implantation drugs. Morphological, hematological, hormonal, and histological examinations were performed.
Results:
LD50 value i.e., 2000 mg/kg from acute toxicity test resulted in the selection of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg dose values for both leaf and root extracts. Treatment with these brought ~2-54%, ~5-48%, and ~1-68% changes respectively in the hormonal, growth factors’ and cytokines’ profile. Ovarian histology revealed restricted follicle maturation and ovulation whereas uterine histology unveiled a ~5-28% decrease in the endometrium thickness making it unreceptive for implantation after treatment with PAL and PAR extracts.
Conclusion:
Anti-ovulatory and anti-implantation results obtained here can be attributed to the presence of plumericin, sterol as well as triterpene groups of phytochemicals from ethanolic extracts of leaves and roots, making them potent contestants for studies on future contraceptive medicines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jay P Rabadia
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, R K University, Rajkot, Gujarat, India. 360020
- Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Limited, Vadodara, Gujarat, India. 390020
| | - Tushar R Desai
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, R K University, Rajkot, Gujarat, India. 360020
| | - Vihang S Thite
- Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Limited, Vadodara, Gujarat, India. 390020
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7
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Effect of levonorgestrel emergency contraception on implantation and fertility: a review. Contraception 2022; 109:8-18. [DOI: 10.1016/j.contraception.2022.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 01/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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8
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Aleksandrovych V, Wrona A, Bereza T, Pityński K, Gil K. Oviductal Telocytes in Patients with Uterine Myoma. Biomedicines 2021; 9:biomedicines9081060. [PMID: 34440264 PMCID: PMC8391874 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines9081060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 08/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Tubal factor infertility occurs in 30–35% of infertile pairs and may be caused by impaired muscular contractility and ciliary beating as well as immunological imbalance and chronic inflammation. Newly discovered telocytes (TCs) have a wide palette of features, which play a role in oviduct physiology. We have observed tissue samples from human fallopian tubes in patients with and without uterine myoma by immunolabelling. According to the immunohistochemical co-expression of markers, it has been determined that TCs are engaged in a wide range of physiological processes, including local innervation, sensitivity to hypoxia, regulation of calcium, and sex steroid hormones balances. Due to the proximity of NOS- and ChAT-positive nerve fibers and the expression of ion channels markers, tubal TCs might be considered conductor cells. Additionally, their integration in contractions and cilia physiology in the context of fertility has been revealed. We have observed the difference in telocytes expression in the human oviduct between groups of patients and attempted to describe this population of cells specifically in the case of infertility development, a clinically relevant avenue for further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronika Aleksandrovych
- Department of Pathophysiology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 31-121 Krakow, Poland;
| | - Anna Wrona
- Gynecology and Obstetrics Ward with Gynecologic Oncology Subdivision, J.Śniadecki’s Specialistic Hospital, 33-300 Nowy Sącz, Poland;
| | - Tomasz Bereza
- Department of Anatomy, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 31-034 Krakow, Poland;
| | - Kazimierz Pityński
- Department of Gynecology and Oncology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 31-501 Krakow, Poland;
| | - Krzysztof Gil
- Department of Pathophysiology, Jagiellonian University Medical College, 31-121 Krakow, Poland;
- Correspondence:
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9
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Anamthathmakula P, Winuthayanon W. Prostaglandin-Endoperoxide Synthase 2 (PTGS2) in the Oviduct: Roles in Fertilization and Early Embryo Development. Endocrinology 2021; 162:6128831. [PMID: 33539521 PMCID: PMC7901659 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqab025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The mammalian oviduct is a dynamic organ where important events such as final maturation of oocytes, transport of gametes, sperm capacitation, fertilization, embryo development, and transport take place. Prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2), also known as cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), is the rate-limiting enzyme in the production of prostaglandins (PGs) and plays an essential role during early pregnancy, including ovulation, fertilization, implantation, and decidualization. Even though the maternal-embryo communication originates in the oviduct, not many studies have systemically investigated PTGS2 signaling during early development. Most of the studies investigating implantation and decidualization processes in Ptgs2-/- mice employed embryo transfer into the uterus, thereby bypassing the mammalian oviduct. Consequently, an understanding of the mechanistic action as well as the regulation of PTGS2 and derived PGs in oviductal functions is far from complete. In this review, we aim to focus on the importance of PTGS2 and associated PGs signaling in the oviduct particularly in humans, farm animals, and laboratory rodents to provide a broad perspective to guide further research in this field. Specifically, we review the role of PTGS2-derived PGs in fertilization, embryo development, and transport. We focus on the actions of ovarian steroid hormones on PTGS2 regulation in the oviduct. Understanding of cellular PTGS2 function during early embryo development and transport in the oviduct will be an important step toward a better understanding of reproduction and may have potential implication in the assisted reproductive technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prashanth Anamthathmakula
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Center for Reproductive Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
- Correspondence: Wipawee Winuthayanon, PhD, BSN,Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA. E-mail: ; and Prashanth Anamthathmakula, PhD, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA. E-mail:
| | - Wipawee Winuthayanon
- School of Molecular Biosciences, Center for Reproductive Biology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, WA, USA
- Correspondence: Wipawee Winuthayanon, PhD, BSN,Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA. E-mail: ; and Prashanth Anamthathmakula, PhD, Washington State University, Pullman, WA 99164, USA. E-mail:
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Antonouli S, Palmerini MG, Bianchi S, Rossi G, Cecconi S, Belli M, Bernardi S, Khalili MA, Familiari G, Nottola SA, Macchiarelli G. Repeated hyperstimulation affects the ultrastructure of mouse fallopian tube epithelium. J Reprod Dev 2020; 66:387-397. [PMID: 32350229 PMCID: PMC7470905 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2019-147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH) is routinary used in assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) to increase the yields of mature oocytes. The possibility that patients
with a history of failures or poor-responders may develop side-effects following these treatments is still debated. Epidemiological studies reported controversial results about
pregnancy outcome and the risk of developing gynecological cancers. By using a mouse model, here we compared the ultrastructural features of fallopian tubes (FTs) obtained from
mice undergoing or not (control, CTR) four (4R) and eight (8R) rounds of gonadotropin stimulation. Although the morphological characteristics of oviductal layers seemed unaffected
by repeated treatments, dose-response ultrastructural alterations in the ampulla appeared in the 4R group and even more in the 8R group. The targets were oviductal ciliated (CCs)
and non-ciliated (NCCs) cells, which showed damaged mitochondria and glycogen accumulations in the cytoplasm. The drastic reduction of CCs, evident after 4R, was supported by the
absence of cilia. After 8R, glycogen granules were significantly reduced and massive degeneration of mitochondria, which appeared swollen and/or vacuolated, occurred in NCCs.
Moreover, disintegrated mitochondria were found at the periphery of mitophagic vacuoles with evident signs of cristolysis. The morphometric analysis evidenced a significant
increase in the density and frequency of damaged mitochondria after 4R and 8R. The absence of cilia, necessary to sustain oviductal transport of oocytes, spermatozoa and embryos,
may originate from either mitochondrial dysfunction or glycogen consumption. These results suggest that repeated COH treatments could induce alterations impairing fertilization and
embryo transport toward the uterus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sevastiani Antonouli
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Palmerini
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Serena Bianchi
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Gianna Rossi
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Sandra Cecconi
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Manuel Belli
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Sara Bernardi
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Mohammad Ali Khalili
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Yazd Institute for Reproductive Sciences, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Giuseppe Familiari
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedics, University of Rome La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefania Annarita Nottola
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedics, University of Rome La Sapienza, Rome, Italy
| | - Guido Macchiarelli
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, 67100 L'Aquila, Italy
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11
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The association between mitochondrial DNA copy number, telomere length, and tubal pregnancy. Placenta 2020; 97:108-114. [PMID: 32792056 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2020.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Revised: 06/02/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Growing evidence has demonstrated association between the occurrence of tubal ectopic pregnancy (TP) and oxidative stress (OS) status, in which mitochondria and telomeres play important roles. However, little is known about the underlying correlation between TP and the mitochondrial DNA copy number (mtDNAcn) or telomere length (TL) abnormalities. In this study, we found OS level was elevated in TP patients. We hierarchically detected the relative mtDNAcn and TL of villi from normal pregnancy (NP) and TP samples according to different gestational age, fetal sex, maternal age, and BMI. The results revealed that the relative mtDNAcn was significantly lower in the villi in the TP group compared with the NP cohort, which was negatively correlated with OS status. In the NP group, the mtDNAcn in the female subgroup was apparently lower than that in the male subgroup, while no statistical difference was found in the mtDNAcn in the TP group between the female and male subgroups. Moreover, the relative TL in the TP group was at a similar level to the NP group, and no statistical correlation was observed between relative TL and OS level. In summary, our findings indicate that the abnormal level of mtDNAcn rather than TL is correlated with TP, which provides new insights into the mechanism of TP.
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12
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Comments on: “A Systematic Review and Meta‑analysis of the Adverse Effects of Levonorgestrel Emergency Oral Contraceptive”. Clin Drug Investig 2020; 40:589-590. [DOI: 10.1007/s40261-020-00919-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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13
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He Y, Qu Y, Jing JC, Chen Z. Characterization of oviduct ciliary beat frequency using real time phase resolved Doppler spectrally encoded interferometric microscopy. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2019; 10:5650-5659. [PMID: 31799037 PMCID: PMC6865119 DOI: 10.1364/boe.10.005650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Revised: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 08/04/2019] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Ciliary activity, characterized by the coordinated beating of ciliary cells, generates the primary driving force for oviduct tubal transport, which is an essential physiological process for successful pregnancies. Malfunction of the cilium in the fallopian tube, or oviduct, may increase the risk of infertility and tubal pregnancy that can result in maternal death. While many ex-vivo studies have been carried out using bright field microscopy, this technique is not feasible for the in-vivo investigation of oviduct ciliary beating frequency (CBF). Optical coherence tomography (OCT) has been able to provide in-vivo CBF imaging in a mouse model, but its resolution may be insufficient to resolve the spatial and temporal features of the cilium. Our group has recently developed the phase resolved Doppler (PRD) OCT method to visualize ciliary strokes at ultra-high displacement sensitivity. However, the cross-sectional field of view (FOV) may not be ideal for visualizing the surface dynamics of ciliated tissue. In this study, we report on the development of phase resolved Doppler spectrally encoded interferometric microscopy (PRD-SEIM) to visualize the oviduct ciliary activity within an en face FOV. This novel real time imaging system offers micrometer spatial resolution, sub-nanometer displacement sensitivity, and the potential for in-vivo endoscopic adaptation. The feasibility of the approach has been validated through ex-vivo experiments where the porcine oviduct CBF has been measured across different temperature conditions and the application of a drug. CBF ranging from 8 to 12 Hz have been observed at different temperatures, while administration of lidocaine decreased the CBF and deactivated the motile cilia. This study will serve as a stepping stone to in-vivo oviduct ciliary endoscopy and future clinical translations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youmin He
- Beckman Laser Institute, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, 1002 Health Sciences Road East, Irvine, CA 92612, USA
- First two authors contributed equally to this study
| | - Yueqiao Qu
- Beckman Laser Institute, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, 1002 Health Sciences Road East, Irvine, CA 92612, USA
- First two authors contributed equally to this study
| | - Joseph C. Jing
- Beckman Laser Institute, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, 1002 Health Sciences Road East, Irvine, CA 92612, USA
| | - Zhongping Chen
- Beckman Laser Institute, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, 1002 Health Sciences Road East, Irvine, CA 92612, USA
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14
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Gómez-Elías MD, May M, Munuce MJ, Bahamondes L, Cuasnicú PS, Cohen DJ. A single post-ovulatory dose of ulipristal acetate impairs post-fertilization events in mice. Mol Hum Reprod 2019; 25:257-264. [PMID: 30824928 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaz013] [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: 11/07/2018] [Revised: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 02/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ulipristal acetate (UPA) is a selective progesterone receptor modulator used for emergency contraception that has proven to be highly effective in preventing pregnancy when taken up to 120 h after unprotected sexual intercourse. Even though it may act mainly by delaying or inhibiting ovulation, additional effects of UPA on post-fertilization events cannot be excluded. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine whether a single post-ovulatory dose of UPA could prevent pregnancy using the mouse as a pre-clinical model. Mated females received a single dose of UPA (40 mg/kg) on Day E1.5 or E2.5 (E0.5: copulatory plug detection) and post-fertilization events were evaluated. Our studies revealed that UPA administration produced a significant decrease in the number of conceptuses compared to control. Moreover, UPA-treated females exhibited a lower number of early implantation sites on Day E5.5, despite normal in vivo embryo development and transport to the uterus at E3.5. Administration of UPA produced histological and functional alterations in the uterine horns, i.e., a dyssynchronous growth between endometrial glands and stroma, with non-physiological combination of both fractions compared to controls, and a completely impaired ability to respond to an artificial decidualization stimulus. Altogether, our results show that the administration of a single post-ovulatory dose of UPA impairs mouse pregnancy probably due to an effect on embryo-uterine interaction, supporting additional effects of the drug on post-fertilization events. Although these studies cannot be performed with human samples, our results with the mouse model provide new insights into the mechanism of action of UPA as an emergency contraception method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matías D Gómez-Elías
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María May
- Instituto de Investigaciones Farmacológicas (ININFA-UBA-CONICET), Facultad de Farmacia y Bioquímica, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María José Munuce
- Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Biochemical Chemistry Area, School of Biochemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, National University of Rosario, Rosario, Argentina
| | - Luis Bahamondes
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
| | - Patricia S Cuasnicú
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Débora J Cohen
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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15
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Aiken CE, Tarry‐Adkins JL, Spiroski A, Nuzzo AM, Ashmore TJ, Rolfo A, Sutherland MJ, Camm EJ, Giussani DA, Ozanne SE. Chronic fetal hypoxia disrupts the peri-conceptual environment in next-generation adult female rats. J Physiol 2019; 597:2391-2401. [PMID: 30791124 PMCID: PMC6487938 DOI: 10.1113/jp277431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2018] [Accepted: 02/15/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS Exposure to chronic hypoxia during gestation influences long-term health and development, including reproductive capacity, across generations. If the peri-conceptual environment in the developing oviduct is affected by gestational hypoxia, then this could have implications for later fertility and the health of future generations. In the present study, we show that the oviducts of female rats exposed to chronic hypoxia in utero have reduced telomere length, decreased mitochondrial DNA biogenesis and increased oxidative stress The results of the present study show that exposure to chronic gestational hypoxia leads to accelerated ageing of the oviduct in early adulthood and they help us understand how exposure to hypoxia during development could influence reproductive health across generations. ABSTRACT Exposure to chronic hypoxia during fetal development has important effects on immediate and long-term outcomes in offspring. Adverse impacts in adult offspring include impairment of cardiovascular function, metabolic derangement and accelerated ovarian ageing. However, it is not known whether other aspects of the female reproductive system may be similarly affected. In the present study, we examined the impact of chronic gestational hypoxia on the developing oviduct. Wistar rat dams were randomized to either normoxia (21%) or hypoxia (13%) from day 6 post-mating until delivery. Post-delivery female offspring were maintained in normoxia until 4 months of age. Oviductal gene expression was assayed at the RNA (quantitative RT-PCR) and protein (western blotting) levels. Oviductal telomere length was assayed using Southern blotting. Oviductal telomere length was reduced in the gestational hypoxia-exposed animals compared to normoxic controls (P < 0.01). This was associated with a specific post-transcriptional reduction in the KU70 subunit of DNA-pk in the gestational hypoxia-exposed group (P < 0.05). Gestational hypoxia-exposed oviducts also showed evidence of decreased mitochondrial DNA biogenesis, reduced mtDNA copy number (P < 0.05) and reduced gene expression of Tfam (P < 0.05) and Pgc1α (P < 0.05). In the hypoxia-exposed oviducts, there was upregulation of mitochondrial-specific anti-oxidant defence enzymes (MnSOD; P < 0.01). Exposure to chronic gestational hypoxia leads to accelerated ageing of the oviduct in adulthood. The oviduct plays a central role in early development as the site of gamete transport, syngamy, and early development; hence, accelerated ageing of the oviductal environment could have important implications for fertility and the health of future generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine E. Aiken
- University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories and MRC Metabolic Diseases UnitWellcome Trust‐MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, Addenbrooke's Treatment Centre, Addenbrooke's HospitalCambridgeUK
- University Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyUniversity of Cambridge, CambridgeUK
| | - Jane L. Tarry‐Adkins
- University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories and MRC Metabolic Diseases UnitWellcome Trust‐MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, Addenbrooke's Treatment Centre, Addenbrooke's HospitalCambridgeUK
| | - Ana‐Mishel Spiroski
- Department of Physiology, Development and NeuroscienceUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
| | - Anna M. Nuzzo
- Dipartimento di Scienze ChirurgicheUniversita degli Studi di TorinoTurinItaly
| | - Thomas J. Ashmore
- University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories and MRC Metabolic Diseases UnitWellcome Trust‐MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, Addenbrooke's Treatment Centre, Addenbrooke's HospitalCambridgeUK
| | - Alessandro Rolfo
- Dipartimento di Scienze ChirurgicheUniversita degli Studi di TorinoTurinItaly
| | - Megan J. Sutherland
- Department of Physiology, Development and NeuroscienceUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
| | - Emily J. Camm
- Department of Physiology, Development and NeuroscienceUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
| | - Dino A. Giussani
- Department of Physiology, Development and NeuroscienceUniversity of CambridgeCambridgeUK
| | - Susan E. Ozanne
- University of Cambridge Metabolic Research Laboratories and MRC Metabolic Diseases UnitWellcome Trust‐MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, Addenbrooke's Treatment Centre, Addenbrooke's HospitalCambridgeUK
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16
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Li C, Wu YT, Zhu Q, Zhang HY, Huang Z, Zhang D, Qi H, Liang GL, He XQ, Wang XF, Tang X, Huang HF, Zhang J. TRPV4 is involved in levonorgestrel-induced reduction in oviduct ciliary beating. J Pathol 2019; 248:77-87. [PMID: 30632164 PMCID: PMC6593834 DOI: 10.1002/path.5233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2018] [Revised: 12/15/2018] [Accepted: 01/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Previous studies revealed the increasing risk of tubal pregnancy following failure of levonorgestrel (LNG)‐induced emergency contraception, which was attributed to the reduced ciliary motility in response to LNG. However, understanding of the mechanism of LNG‐induced reduction in the ciliary beat frequency (CBF) is limited. The transient receptor potential vanilloid (TRPV) 4 channel is located widely in the female reproductive tract and generates an influx of Ca2+ following its activation under normal physiological conditions, which regulates the CBF. The present study aimed to explore whether LNG reduced the CBF in the Fallopian tubes by modulating TRPV4 channels, leading to embryo retention in the Fallopian tubes and subsequent tubal pregnancy. The study provided evidence that the expression of TRPV4 was downregulated in the Fallopian tubes among patients with tubal pregnancy and negatively correlated with the serum level of progesterone. LNG downregulated the expression of TRPV4, limiting the calcium influx to reduce the CBF in mouse oviducts. Furthermore, the distribution of ciliated cells and the morphology of cilia did not change following the administration of LNG. LNG‐induced reduction in the CBF and embryo retention in the Fallopian tubes and in mouse oviducts were partially reversed by the progesterone receptor antagonist RU486 or the TRPV4 agonist 4α‐phorbol 12,13‐didecanoate (4α‐PDD). The results indicated that LNG could downregulate the expression of TRPV4 to reduce the CBF in both humans and mice, suggesting the possible mechanism of tubal pregnancy. © 2019 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Li
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, PR China.,Institute of Embryo-Fetal Original Adult Disease Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Yan-Ting Wu
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, PR China.,Institute of Embryo-Fetal Original Adult Disease Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Qian Zhu
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Hui-Yu Zhang
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Zhen Huang
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, PR China.,Institute of Embryo-Fetal Original Adult Disease Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Duo Zhang
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Hang Qi
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Gui-Ling Liang
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Xiao-Qing He
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Xiao-Feng Wang
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Xue Tang
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - He-Feng Huang
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, PR China.,Institute of Embryo-Fetal Original Adult Disease Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
| | - Jian Zhang
- International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China.,Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, PR China.,Institute of Embryo-Fetal Original Adult Disease Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, PR China
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17
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Xia W, Zhang D, Ouyang J, Liang Y, Zhang H, Huang Z, Liang G, Zhu Q, Guan X, Zhang J. Effects of pelvic endometriosis and adenomyosis on ciliary beat frequency and muscular contractions in the human fallopian tube. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2018; 16:48. [PMID: 29753325 PMCID: PMC5948789 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-018-0361-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2018] [Accepted: 04/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pelvic endometriosis (EM) and adenomyosis (AM) have different effects on the fallopian tube. This study aimed to assess the transport capability of the fallopian tube in women with pelvic EM or AM. METHODS Twenty women with uterine leiomyoma (control group), 20 with adenomyosis without pelvic EM (AM group) and 35 with pelvic EM without AM (EM group) were included. EM cases were further divided into the tubal EM and non-tubal EM subgroups. Ciliary beat frequency (CBF), percentage of ciliated cells, and smooth muscle contraction were measured. RESULTS CBFs of the ampulla in EM cases were significantly lower than those of control and AM cases; CBFs of the ampulla and isthmus in tubal EM cases were significantly lower than those of the control group and non-tubal EM subgroup. In both the ampulla and isthmus segment, percentages of ciliated cells in EM patients were significantly lower than those of AM and control patients; the tubal EM subgroup showed significantly lower values than the control group and non-tubal EM subgroup. Amplitude-to-weight ratios of longitudinal muscular contractility in EM cases were significantly lower than control values; tubal EM cases showed significantly lower values than controls and the non-tubal EM subgroup. Contraction frequencies in EM cases were significantly lower than those of control and AM cases, in both longitudinal and circular muscles; tubal EM cases showed significantly lower values than controls and the non-tubal EM subgroup. CONCLUSION EM with tubal EM damaged transport function of the fallopian tube, to varying degrees, whereas tubal function in EM without tubal EM and in AM is not altered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Xia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Embryo-Fetal Original Adult Disease Affiliated to School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Duo Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Embryo-Fetal Original Adult Disease Affiliated to School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Ouyang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Embryo-Fetal Original Adult Disease Affiliated to School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Liang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Embryo-Fetal Original Adult Disease Affiliated to School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Huiyu Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Embryo-Fetal Original Adult Disease Affiliated to School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhen Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Embryo-Fetal Original Adult Disease Affiliated to School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Guiling Liang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Embryo-Fetal Original Adult Disease Affiliated to School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qian Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
- Institute of Embryo-Fetal Original Adult Disease Affiliated to School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoming Guan
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China.
- Institute of Embryo-Fetal Original Adult Disease Affiliated to School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China.
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18
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Mitchison HM, Shoemark A. Motile cilia defects in diseases other than primary ciliary dyskinesia: The contemporary diagnostic and research role for transmission electron microscopy. Ultrastruct Pathol 2017; 41:415-427. [PMID: 28925789 DOI: 10.1080/01913123.2017.1370050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Ultrastructural studies have underpinned the cell biological and clinical investigations of the varied roles of motile cilia in health and disease, with a long history since the 1950s. Recent developments from transmission electron microscopy (TEM; cryo-electron microscopy, electron tomography) have yielded higher resolution and fresh insights into the structure and function of these complex organelles. Microscopy in ciliated organisms, disease models, and in patients with ciliopathy diseases has dramatically expanded our understanding of the ubiquity, multisystem involvement, and importance of cilia in normal human development. Here, we review the importance of motile cilia ultrastructural studies in understanding the basis of diseases other than primary ciliary dyskinesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah M Mitchison
- a Newlife Birth Defects Research Centre, Experimental and Personalised Medicine, Genetics and Genomic Medicine Programme, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health , University College London , London , UK
| | - Amelia Shoemark
- b Department of Paediatric Respiratory Medicine , Royal Brompton & Harefield NHS Trust , London , UK.,c Division of Molecular & Clinical Medicine, School of Medicine , Ninewells Hospital and Medical School , Dundee , UK
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19
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Rosato E, Farris M, Bastianelli C. Mechanism of Action of Ulipristal Acetate for Emergency Contraception: A Systematic Review. Front Pharmacol 2016; 6:315. [PMID: 26793107 PMCID: PMC4709420 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2015.00315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2015] [Accepted: 12/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ulipristal acetate (UPA) is now recommended as first choice hormonal emergency contraception (EC), due to its higher efficacy and similar safety compared to Levonorgestrel - EC. Even though all trials demonstrated that the first mechanism of action is inhibition of ovulation, some authors still postulate that a post fertilization effect is also possible, raising the alert on medication and fostering the ethical debate. A Medline database search was performed in order to find recent articles related to UPA's effects on ovulation, on fallopian tube and on endometrium. We also analyzed the effects on sperm function and pregnancy. All studies conclude that UPA is effective in inhibition of ovulation even when administered shortly before LH peak. The effects on fallopian tube are unclear: according to some authors UPA inhibits ciliar beat through an agonistic effect on progesterone receptors, according to others it antagonizes the progesterone-induced ciliar beat decrease. Concerning the action on endometrium and on embryo implantation most of the studies concluded that low dose UPA used for EC has no significant effect on the decrease of endometrial thickness and on embryo's attachment, but these results are still matter of debate. Finally recent evidence suggests that UPA modulates human sperm functions while it has no effect on established pregnancy. To date the majority of the evidence concurs in excluding a post-fertilization effect of UPA, even though more studies are needed to clarify its mechanism of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Rosato
- Department of Gynecological and Obstetrical Sciences and Urological Sciences, “Sapienza" University of RomeRome, Italy
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20
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Li C, Zhao WH, Zhu Q, Cao SJ, Ping H, Xi X, Qin GJ, Yan MX, Zhang D, Qiu J, Zhang J. Risk factors for ectopic pregnancy: a multi-center case-control study. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2015; 15:187. [PMID: 26296545 PMCID: PMC4546260 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-015-0613-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2015] [Accepted: 08/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Ectopic pregnancy (EP) is the leading cause of maternal death during the first trimester of pregnancy. A better understanding of EP risk can help prevent its occurrence. We carried out a multi-center, large-sample, case-control study to evaluate the risk factors for EP in Shanghai, China. Methods Women who were diagnosed with EP (n = 2411) and women with intrauterine pregnancies (n = 2416) were recruited from five hospitals in Shanghai, China. Information regarding the sociodemographic characteristics; reproductive, gynecological and surgical history; and previous and current use of contraceptives was collected from all participants. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95 % confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated and adjusted for potential confounding factors via multivariate logistic regression analysis. Results The study revealed that the risk of EP was associated with the traditional risk factors including previous EP (Adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 2.72, 95 % CI: 1.83–4.05), previous Chlamydia trachomatis infection (Adjusted OR = 3.18, 95 % CI: 2.64, 3.84), previous infertility (AOR = 2.18, 95 % CI: 1.66–2.88), previous adnexal surgery (AOR = 2.09, 95 % CI: 1.49–2.93), previous appendectomy (AOR = 1.64, 95 % CI: 1.13–2.37), and previous use of intrauterine devices (IUDs) (AOR = 1.72, 95 % CI: 1.39–2.13). Additionally, EP risk was increased following the failure of most contraceptives used in the current cycle including IUDs (AOR = 16.43, 95 % CI: 10.42–25.89), oral contraceptive pills (AOR = 3.02, 95 % CI: 1.16–7.86), levonorgestrel emergency contraception (AOR = 4.75, 95 % CI: 3.79–5.96), and female sterilization (AOR = 4 .73, 95 % CI: 1.04–21.52). Stratified analysis showed that in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET) was the main risk factor for EP in women with tubal infertility (AOR = 8.99, 95 % CI: 1.98–40.84), although IVF-ET showed no association with EP in women with non-tubal infertility (AOR = 2.52, 95 % CI: 0.14–44.67). Conclusion In addition to the traditional risk factors, IVF-ET and current IUD use play dominant roles in the occurrence of EP. Attention should be given to women with tubal infertility who have undergone IVE-ET treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, China. .,Institute of Embryo-Fetal Original Adult Disease Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, China.
| | - Wei-Hong Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, China.
| | - Qian Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, China.
| | - Shu-Jun Cao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Songjiang Central Hospital, Shanghai, 201600, China.
| | - Hua Ping
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Songjiang Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai, 201620, China.
| | - Xiaowei Xi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai First People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200080, China.
| | - Guo-Juan Qin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Minhang Central Hospital, Shanghai, 201100, China.
| | - Ming-Xing Yan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, China.
| | - Duo Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, China.
| | - Jun Qiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, China.
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200030, China. .,Institute of Embryo-Fetal Original Adult Disease Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200030, China.
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21
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Wang S, Burton JC, Behringer RR, Larina IV. In vivo micro-scale tomography of ciliary behavior in the mammalian oviduct. Sci Rep 2015; 5:13216. [PMID: 26279472 PMCID: PMC4538602 DOI: 10.1038/srep13216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2015] [Accepted: 07/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Motile cilia in the mammalian oviduct play a key role in reproduction, such as transporting fertilized oocytes to the uterus for implantation. Due to their small size (~5-10 μm in length and ~300 nm in diameter), live visualization of cilia and their activity in the lumen of the oviduct through tissue layers represents a major challenge not yet overcome. Here, we report a functional low-coherence optical imaging technique that allows in vivo depth-resolved mapping of the cilia location and cilia beat frequency (CBF) in the intact mouse oviduct with micro-scale spatial resolution. We validate our approach with widely-used microscopic imaging methods, present the first in vivo mapping of the oviduct CBF in its native context, and demonstrate the ability of this approach to differentiate CBF in different locations of the oviduct at different post-conception stages. This technique opens a range of opportunities for live studies in reproductive medicine as well as other areas focused on cilia activity and related ciliopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shang Wang
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jason C Burton
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Richard R Behringer
- Department of Genetics, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Irina V Larina
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Yuan J, Zhao W, Yan M, Zhu Q, Qin G, Qiu J, Zhang J. Ulipristal Acetate Antagonizes the Inhibitory Effect of Progesterone on Ciliary Beat Frequency and Upregulates Steroid Receptor Expression Levels in Human Fallopian Tubes. Reprod Sci 2015; 22:1516-23. [DOI: 10.1177/1933719115589409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jiangjing Yuan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital/School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Weihong Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital/School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Mingxing Yan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital/School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Qian Zhu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital/School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Guojuan Qin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Minhang Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Qiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital/School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jian Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital/School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
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23
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Li C, Meng CX, Sun LL, Zhao WH, Zhang M, Zhang J, Cheng L. Reduced prevalence of chronic tubal inflammation in tubal pregnancies after levonorgestrel emergency contraception failure. Pharmacoepidemiol Drug Saf 2015; 24:548-54. [PMID: 25832444 PMCID: PMC6681171 DOI: 10.1002/pds.3775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2014] [Revised: 02/01/2015] [Accepted: 02/25/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to compare chronic fallopian tubal inflammatory disease and fibrosis between patients with general tubal pregnancy (TP) and TP with levonorgestrel (LNG) emergency contraception (EC) failure. METHODS We retrospectively studied patients with general TP (n = 79) and TP following LNG-EC failure (n = 81) within the same conception cycle. Information on the gynecological features of each subject was collected. Pelvic inflammatory disease and associated sequelae were assessed by the serum Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) IgG test, laparoscopic evaluation of tubal damage, and histopathological observation of tube tissues. Chi-square and Student's t-tests were employed to determine the difference between the two groups. RESULTS Compared with general TP, cases of TP following LNG-EC failure subjects were less likely to have a history of previous ectopic pregnancy (5.06% vs. 18.52%, p = 0.009) and adnexal surgery (6.33% vs. 22.22%, p = 0.010). Patients with TP following LNG-EC failure were less likely to have pelvic inflammatory disease and associated sequelae than those with general TP, as revealed by positive reaction to anti-CT IgG (18.18% vs. 35.94%, p = 0.031), assessment of tubal damage (grade I: 5.06% vs. 17.28%; grade II: 2.53% vs. 11.11%; grade III: 1.27% vs. 6.17%; p = 0.001), infiltration of chronic inflammatory cells (10.91% vs. 62.50%, p < 0.001), and positive Masson's staining (7.69% vs. 39.58%; p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Compared with cases of general TP, cases of TP following LNG-EC failure exhibited reduced rates of CT infection, fallopian tubal inflammation, and/or fibrosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cheng Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiaotong University, Shanghai, China
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