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Oreščanin Dušić Z, Kovačević S, Ristić N, Vojnović Milutinović D, Vidonja Uzelac T, Blagojević D, Djordjevic A, Brkljačić J. Effects of Liquid Fructose Supplementation and Chronic Unpredictable Stress on Uterine Contractile Activity in Nonpregnant Rats. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:6770. [PMID: 38928475 PMCID: PMC11204023 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25126770] [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: 05/24/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Increased fructose consumption and chronic stress, the major characteristics of modern lifestyle, impact human health; however, the consequences of their combination on the uterus remain understudied. In this study, we investigated contractile activity, morphology, and intracellular activity of antioxidant enzymes in uteri from virgin Wistar rats subjected to liquid fructose supplementation and/or unpredictable stress over 9 weeks. Contractile activity and uterine response to oxytocin or adrenaline were examined ex vivo using isolated bath chambers. Fructose supplementation, irrespective of stress, affected uterine morphology by increasing endometrium while decreasing myometrium volume density, attenuated uterine response to increasing doses of oxytocin, and increased glutathione peroxidase activity. Stress, irrespective of fructose, attenuated dose-dependent adrenaline-induced uterine relaxation. Stress, when applied solely, decreased mitochondrial superoxide dismutase activity. In the combined treatment, irregular estrous cycles and both reduced response to oxytocin and to adrenaline (as a consequence of fructose consumption and exposure to stress), along with fructose-related alteration of uterine morphology, were detected. In conclusion, fructose and stress affect uterine contractile activity, irrespective of each other, by inducing completely distinct responses in isolated uteri. In the combined treatment, the effects of both factors were evident, suggesting that the combination exerts more detrimental effects on the uterus than each factor individually.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zorana Oreščanin Dušić
- Department of Physiology, Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković”—National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, 142 Despot Stefan Blvd, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia; (Z.O.D.); (T.V.U.); (D.B.)
| | - Sanja Kovačević
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković”—National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, 142 Despot Stefan Blvd, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia; (S.K.); (D.V.M.); (A.D.)
| | - Nataša Ristić
- Department of Cytology, Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković”—National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, 142 Despot Stefan Blvd, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia;
| | - Danijela Vojnović Milutinović
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković”—National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, 142 Despot Stefan Blvd, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia; (S.K.); (D.V.M.); (A.D.)
| | - Teodora Vidonja Uzelac
- Department of Physiology, Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković”—National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, 142 Despot Stefan Blvd, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia; (Z.O.D.); (T.V.U.); (D.B.)
| | - Duško Blagojević
- Department of Physiology, Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković”—National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, 142 Despot Stefan Blvd, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia; (Z.O.D.); (T.V.U.); (D.B.)
| | - Ana Djordjevic
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković”—National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, 142 Despot Stefan Blvd, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia; (S.K.); (D.V.M.); (A.D.)
| | - Jelena Brkljačić
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute for Biological Research “Siniša Stanković”—National Institute of Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, 142 Despot Stefan Blvd, 11060 Belgrade, Serbia; (S.K.); (D.V.M.); (A.D.)
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2
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Dawson M, Flores D, Zou L, Anandasenthil S, Mahesh R, Zavala-Romero O, Arora R. Imaging the dynamics of murine uterine contractions in early pregnancy†. Biol Reprod 2024; 110:1175-1190. [PMID: 38713674 PMCID: PMC11180618 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioae071] [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: 12/03/2023] [Revised: 04/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/02/2024] [Indexed: 05/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Uterine muscle contractility is essential for reproductive processes including sperm and embryo transport, and during the uterine cycle to remove menstrual effluent. Even still, uterine contractions have primarily been studied in the context of preterm labor. This is partly due to a lack of methods for studying the uterine muscle contractility in the intact organ. Here, we describe an imaging-based method to evaluate mouse uterine contractility of both the longitudinal and circular muscles in the cycling stages and in early pregnancy. By transforming the image-based data into three-dimensional spatiotemporal contractility maps, we calculate waveform characteristics of muscle contractions, including amplitude, frequency, wavelength, and velocity. We report that the native organ is highly contractile during the progesterone-dominant diestrus stage of the cycle when compared to the estrogen-dominant proestrus and estrus stages. We also observed that during the first phase of uterine embryo movement when clustered embryos move toward the middle of the uterine horn, contractions are dynamic and non-uniform between different segments of the uterine horn. In the second phase of embryo movement, contractions are more uniform and rhythmic throughout the uterine horn. Finally, in Lpar3-/- uteri, which display faster embryo movement, we observe global and regional increases in contractility. Our method provides a means to understand the wave characteristics of uterine smooth muscle in response to modulators and in genetic mutants. Better understanding uterine contractility in the early pregnancy stages is critical for the advancement of artificial reproductive technologies and a possibility of modulating embryo movement during clinical embryo transfers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Madeline Dawson
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
- Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Diana Flores
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
- Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Lisa Zou
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
- Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Shivani Anandasenthil
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
- Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Rohit Mahesh
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
- Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
| | - Olmo Zavala-Romero
- Department of Scientific Computing, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, USA
| | - Ripla Arora
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
- Institute for Quantitative Health Science and Engineering, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA
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3
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Combs DJ, Moult EM, England SK, Cohen AE. Mapping uterine calcium dynamics during the ovulatory cycle in live mice. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2024:2024.02.02.578395. [PMID: 38370720 PMCID: PMC10871303 DOI: 10.1101/2024.02.02.578395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/20/2024]
Abstract
Uterine contraction patterns vary during the ovulatory cycle and throughout pregnancy but prior measurements have produced limited and conflicting information on these patterns. We combined a virally delivered genetically encoded calcium reporter (GCaMP8m) and ultra-widefield imaging in live nonpregnant mice to characterize uterine calcium dynamics at organ scale throughout the estrous cycle. Prior to ovulation (proestrus and estrus) uterine excitations primarily initiated in a region near the oviduct, but after ovulation (metestrus and diestrus), excitations initiated at loci homogeneously distributed throughout the organ. The frequency of excitation events was lowest in proestrus and estrus, higher in metestrus and highest in diestrus. These results establish a platform for mapping uterine activity, and show that the question of whether there is an anatomically localized trigger for uterine excitations depends on the estrous cycle phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J. Combs
- Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University
| | - Eric M. Moult
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University
| | - Sarah K. England
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Health Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine
| | - Adam E. Cohen
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology, Harvard University
- Department of Physics, Harvard University
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4
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Piasecki J, Guo Y, Jones EJ, Phillips BE, Stashuk DW, Atherton PJ, Piasecki M. Menstrual Cycle Associated Alteration of Vastus Lateralis Motor Unit Function. SPORTS MEDICINE - OPEN 2023; 9:97. [PMID: 37874413 PMCID: PMC10597975 DOI: 10.1186/s40798-023-00639-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Estrogen and progesterone are the primary female sex hormones and have net excitatory and inhibitory effects, respectively, on neuronal function. Fluctuating concentrations across the menstrual cycle has led to several lines of research in relation to neuromuscular function and performance; however evidence from animal and cell culture models has yet to be demonstrated in human motor units coupled with quantification of circulating hormones. Intramuscular electromyography was used to record motor unit potentials and corresponding motor unit potential trains from the vastus lateralis of nine eumenorrheic females during the early follicular, ovulation and mid luteal phases of the menstrual cycle, alongside assessments of neuromuscular performance. Multi-level regression models were applied to explore effects of time and of contraction level. Statistical significance was accepted as p < 0.05. RESULTS Knee extensor maximum voluntary contraction, jump power, force steadiness, and balance did not differ across the menstrual phases (all p > 0.4). Firing rate of low threshold motor units (10% maximum voluntary contraction) was lower during the ovulation and mid luteal phases (β = - 0.82 Hz, p < 0.001), with no difference in motor unit potentials analysed from 25% maximum voluntary contraction contractions. Motor unit potentials were more complex during ovulation and mid luteal phase (p < 0.03), with no change in neuromuscular junction transmission instability (p > 0.3). CONCLUSIONS Assessments of neuromuscular performance did not differ across the menstrual cycle. The suppression of low threshold motor unit firing rate during periods of increased progesterone may suggest a potential inhibitory effect and an alteration of recruitment strategy; however this had no discernible effect on performance. These findings highlight contraction level-dependent modulation of vastus lateralis motor unit function over the eumenorrheic cycle, occurring independently of measures of performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Piasecki
- Musculoskeletal Physiology Research Group, Sport, Health and Performance Enhancement Research Centre, Nottingham Trent University, Nottingham, UK.
| | - Yuxiao Guo
- Centre of Metabolism, Ageing and Physiology (COMAP), MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Eleanor J Jones
- Centre of Metabolism, Ageing and Physiology (COMAP), MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Bethan E Phillips
- Centre of Metabolism, Ageing and Physiology (COMAP), MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Daniel W Stashuk
- Department of Systems Design Engineering, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON, Canada
| | - Philip J Atherton
- Centre of Metabolism, Ageing and Physiology (COMAP), MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Mathew Piasecki
- Centre of Metabolism, Ageing and Physiology (COMAP), MRC-Versus Arthritis Centre for Musculoskeletal Ageing Research, National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Nottingham Biomedical Research Centre, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
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Dabiré PA, Ouédraogo Y, Somé AA, Sawadogo S, Ouédraogo I, Ilboudo EM, Belemtougri RG. Relaxant Effects of the Aqueous Extract of Excoecaria grahamii (Euphorbiaceae) Leaves on Uterine Horn Contractility in Wistar Rats. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 2021:6618565. [PMID: 33928151 PMCID: PMC8053055 DOI: 10.1155/2021/6618565] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2020] [Revised: 03/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
In uterine smooth muscle, the effects of Excoecaria grahamii are not yet documented. To fill this gap, we investigated the pharmacological effect of Excoecaria grahamii on the contraction of the rat isolated uterine horns. The isolated segments were exposed to different concentrations of the aqueous extract of Excoecaria grahamii leaves and pharmacological drugs. The results showed that Excoecaria grahamii aqueous extract decreased the amplitude and frequency by concentration-related manner. IC50 values were 2.4 and 2.6, respectively, for amplitude and frequency. Our study revealed that the extract did not act through histamine H2-receptors or the nitric oxide pathway. It also inhibited uterine contractions induced by oxytocin and potassium chloride (KCl). These data suggest that Excoecaria grahamii active compound can be used for calming uterine contractions. The action of Excoecaria grahamii showed that it can be useful to fight against diseases which caused uterotonic effects. It can be useful to prevent preterm birth and pains caused by menstruations but further investigation is needed to clarify the mechanism action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prosper A. Dabiré
- Department of Life and Earth Sciences, Institute of Sciences, 01 BP 1757 Ouagadougou 01, Burkina Faso
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Animal Biology and Physiology, University Joseph Ki-Zerbo, 03 BP 7021 Ouagadougou 03, Burkina Faso
| | - Youssoufou Ouédraogo
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Animal Biology and Physiology, University Joseph Ki-Zerbo, 03 BP 7021 Ouagadougou 03, Burkina Faso
| | - Abel A. Somé
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Animal Biology and Physiology, University Joseph Ki-Zerbo, 03 BP 7021 Ouagadougou 03, Burkina Faso
| | - Stanislas Sawadogo
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Animal Biology and Physiology, University Joseph Ki-Zerbo, 03 BP 7021 Ouagadougou 03, Burkina Faso
| | - Issaka Ouédraogo
- Department of Life and Earth Sciences, Institute of Sciences, 01 BP 1757 Ouagadougou 01, Burkina Faso
- Laboratory of Plant Biology and Ecology, Department of Plant Biology and Physiology, University Joseph Ki-Zerbo, 03 BP 7021 Ouagadougou 03, Burkina Faso
| | - Edith M. Ilboudo
- Department of Life and Earth Sciences, Institute of Sciences, 01 BP 1757 Ouagadougou 01, Burkina Faso
- Laboratory of Entomology, Department of Animal Biology and Physiology, University Joseph Ki-Zerbo, 03 BP 7021 Ouagadougou 03, Burkina Faso
| | - Raymond G. Belemtougri
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Department of Animal Biology and Physiology, University Joseph Ki-Zerbo, 03 BP 7021 Ouagadougou 03, Burkina Faso
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6
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Guerra DD, Bok R, Breen K, Vyas V, Jiang H, MacLean KN, Hurt KJ. Estrogen Regulates Local Cysteine Metabolism in Mouse Myometrium. Reprod Sci 2021; 28:79-90. [PMID: 32820455 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00284-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 08/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Sulfur amino acid metabolism influences reproductive physiology, and transsulfuration in particular may be critical for normal cellular function. The sex hormone estrogen (E2) modulates gene expression and redox balance in some tissues by inducing the transsulfuration enzymes cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) and cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE). The role of sex hormones in sulfur amino acid metabolism by uterine smooth muscle is not known. Here, we show that CBS and CSE proteins increase in the mouse myometrium during estrus and diestrus, respectively, suggesting that E2 reciprocally regulates myometrial CBS and CSE expression. In ovariectomized mice, exogenous E2 upregulates CBS and downregulates CSE levels. E2 promotes CBS mRNA and protein expression but attenuates CSE protein expression without affecting CSE mRNA. This pattern of E2-stimulated changes in transsulfuration enzyme expression is specific to the uterine smooth muscle. E2 does not change vaginal or cervical expression of CBS or CSE significantly, and E2 decreases expression of CSE in the liver without affecting CBS. E2 also downregulates myometrial cysteinesulfinic acid decarboxylase (CSAD) and decreases myometrial biochemical synthesis of the gaso-transmitter hydrogen sulfide (H2S). These findings suggest that myometrial sulfur amino acid metabolism may regulate uterine redox homeostasis, with implications for the source and metabolism of myometrial cysteine in high E2 states such as estrus and pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damian D Guerra
- Department of Biology , University of Louisville , 2301 South 3rd Street, Louisville, Kentucky, 40292, USA
| | - Rachael Bok
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12700 East 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Kelsey Breen
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12700 East 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Vibhuti Vyas
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12700 East 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Hua Jiang
- Section of Clinical Genetics and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12700 East 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Kenneth N MacLean
- Section of Clinical Genetics and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12700 East 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - K Joseph Hurt
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12700 East 19th Avenue, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 12700 East 19th Avenue, Mail Stop 8613, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
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7
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Osaghae BE, Arrowsmith S, Wray S. Gestational and Hormonal Effects on Magnesium Sulfate's Ability to Inhibit Mouse Uterine Contractility. Reprod Sci 2020; 27:1570-1579. [PMID: 32430707 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00185-8] [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] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Magnesium sulfate is used as a tocolytic, but clinical efficacy has been seriously questioned. Our objective was to use controlled ex vivo conditions and known pregnancy stages, to investigate how 2 key factors, hormones and gestation, affect magnesium's tocolytic ability. We hypothesized that these factors could underlie the varying clinical findings around magnesium's efficacy. Myometrial strips were obtained from nonpregnant (n = 10), mid-pregnant (n = 12), and term-pregnant (n = 11) mouse uterus. The strips were mounted in organ baths superfused with oxygenated physiological saline at pH 7.4 and 37 °C. The effect of different concentrations of MgSO4 (2-20 mM) was examined on spontaneous and oxytocin-induced (0.5-1 nM) contractions. Contractile properties (amplitude, frequency, and area under the curve) were measured before and after application of magnesium. Magnesium sulfate had a dose-dependent inhibitory effect on both spontaneous and oxytocin-induced contractions but was less effective in the presence of oxytocin. In spontaneous contractions, magnesium was more potent as gestation progressed (P < .0001). In the presence of oxytocin, however, there were no significant gestational differences in its effects on contraction. The rapid onset and reversal of magnesium's effects suggest an extracellular action on calcium entry. Taken together, we conclude that magnesium's actions are influenced by both gestational state and hormones, such that, at least in mice, it is least effective in early gestation with oxytocin present and most effective at term in the absence of oxytocin. That magnesium is least effective preterm and oxytocin decreases its effectiveness throughout gestation, may explain its disappointing clinical effects as a tocolytic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blessing E Osaghae
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, University Department, Harris-Wellbeing Preterm Birth Research Centre, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, First floor Liverpool Women's Hospital, Crown Street, Liverpool, L8 7SS, UK
| | - Sarah Arrowsmith
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, University Department, Harris-Wellbeing Preterm Birth Research Centre, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, First floor Liverpool Women's Hospital, Crown Street, Liverpool, L8 7SS, UK
| | - Susan Wray
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, University Department, Harris-Wellbeing Preterm Birth Research Centre, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, First floor Liverpool Women's Hospital, Crown Street, Liverpool, L8 7SS, UK.
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8
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Zhang Y, Qian J, Zaltzhendler O, Bshara M, Jaffa AJ, Grisaru D, Duan E, Elad D. Analysis of in vivo uterine peristalsis in the non-pregnant female mouse. Interface Focus 2019; 9:20180082. [PMID: 31263529 DOI: 10.1098/rsfs.2018.0082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine peristalsis due to spontaneous contractions of the myometrial smooth muscles has important roles in pre-implantation processes of intra-uterine sperm transport to the fertilization site, and then embryo transport to the implantation sites. We developed a new objective methodology to study in vivo uterine peristalsis in female mice during the pro-oestrus phase. The acquisition procedure of the uterine organ is remote without interfering with the organ function. The uniqueness of the new approach is that video images of physiological pattern were converted using image processing and new algorithms to biological time-dependent signals that can be processed with existing algorithms for signal processing. Using this methodology we found that uterine peristalsis in the pro-oestrus mouse is in the range of 0.008-0.029 Hz, which is about one contraction per minute and with fairly symmetric contractions that occasionally propagate caudally. This rate of contractions is similar to that of human uterine peristalsis acquired in vivo, which is important information for a popular animal model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, People's Republic of China
| | - Jingjing Qian
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, People's Republic of China
| | - Oren Zaltzhendler
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Mustafa Bshara
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Ariel J Jaffa
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tel-Aviv Medical Center, Tel Aviv 64239, Israel
| | - Dan Grisaru
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel.,Gynecological Oncology Unit, Lis Maternity Hospital, Tel-Aviv Medical Center, Tel Aviv 64239, Israel
| | - Enkui Duan
- State Key Laboratory of Stem Cell and Reproductive Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, People's Republic of China
| | - David Elad
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
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9
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Sakamoto K, Kurokawa J. Involvement of sex hormonal regulation of K + channels in electrophysiological and contractile functions of muscle tissues. J Pharmacol Sci 2019; 139:259-265. [PMID: 30962088 DOI: 10.1016/j.jphs.2019.02.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2018] [Revised: 02/14/2019] [Accepted: 02/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex hormones, such as testosterone, progesterone, and 17β-estradiol, control various physiological functions. This review focuses on the sex hormonal regulation of K+ channels and the effects of such regulation on electrophysiological and contractile functions of muscles. In the cardiac tissue, testosterone and progesterone shorten action potential, and estrogen lengthens QT interval, a marker of increased risk of ventricular tachyarrhythmias. We have shown that testosterone and progesterone in physiological concentration activate KCNQ1 channels via membrane-delimited sex hormone receptor/eNOS pathways to shorten the action potential duration. Mitochondrial K+ channels are also involved in the protection of cardiac muscle. Testosterone and 17β-estradiol directly activate mitochondrial inner membrane K+ channels (Ca2+ activated K+ channel (KCa channel) and ATP-sensitive K+ channel (KATP channel)) that are involved in ischemic preconditioning and cardiac protection. During pregnancy, uterine blood flow increases to support fetal growth and development. It has been reported that 17β-estradiol directly activates large-conductance Ca2+-activated K+ channel (BKCa channel) attenuating arterial contraction. Furthermore, 17β-estradiol increases expression of BKCa channel β1 subunit which enhances BKCa channel activity by DNA demethylation. These findings are useful for understanding the mechanisms of sex or generation-dependent differences in the physiological and pathological functions of muscles, and the mechanisms of drug actions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuho Sakamoto
- Department of Bio-Informational Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Shizuoka, Shizuoka 422-8526, Japan.
| | - Junko Kurokawa
- Department of Bio-Informational Pharmacology, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Shizuoka, Shizuoka 422-8526, Japan.
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10
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Osaghae BE, Arrowsmith S, Wray S. Gestational and Hormonal Effects on Magnesium Sulfate's Ability to Inhibit Mouse Uterine Contractility. Reprod Sci 2019:1933719119828089. [PMID: 30773125 DOI: 10.1177/1933719119828089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Magnesium sulfate is used as a tocolytic, but clinical efficacy has been seriously questioned. Our objective was to use controlled ex vivo conditions and known pregnancy stages, to investigate how 2 key factors, hormones and gestation, affect magnesium's tocolytic ability. We hypothesized that these factors could underlie the varying clinical findings around magnesium's efficacy. Myometrial strips were obtained from nonpregnant (n = 10), mid-pregnant (n = 12), and term-pregnant (n = 11) mouse uterus. The strips were mounted in organ baths superfused with oxygenated physiological saline at pH 7.4 and 37°C. The effect of different concentrations of MgSO4 (2-20 mM) was examined on spontaneous and oxytocin-induced (0.5-1 nM) contractions. Contractile properties (amplitude, frequency, and area under the curve) were measured before and after application of magnesium. Magnesium sulfate had a dose-dependent inhibitory effect on both spontaneous and oxytocin-induced contractions but was less effective in the presence of oxytocin. In spontaneous contractions, magnesium was more potent as gestation progressed ( P < .0001). In the presence of oxytocin, however, there were no significant gestational differences in its effects on contraction. The rapid onset and reversal of magnesium's effects suggest an extracellular action on calcium entry. Taken together, we conclude that magnesium's actions are influenced by both gestational state and hormones, such that, at least in mice, it is least effective in early gestation with oxytocin present and most effective at term in the absence of oxytocin. That magnesium is least effective preterm and oxytocin decreases its effectiveness throughout gestation, may explain its disappointing clinical effects as a tocolytic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blessing E Osaghae
- 1 Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, University Department, Harris-Wellbeing Preterm Birth Research Centre, The Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Sarah Arrowsmith
- 1 Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, University Department, Harris-Wellbeing Preterm Birth Research Centre, The Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Susan Wray
- 1 Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, University Department, Harris-Wellbeing Preterm Birth Research Centre, The Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
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The Myometrium: From Excitation to Contractions and Labour. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1124:233-263. [PMID: 31183830 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-13-5895-1_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/06/2022]
Abstract
We start by describing the functions of the uterus, its structure, both gross and fine, innervation and blood supply. It is interesting to note the diversity of the female's reproductive tract between species and to remember it when working with different animal models. Myocytes are the overwhelming cell type of the uterus (>95%) and our focus. Their function is to contract, and they have an intrinsic pacemaker and rhythmicity, which is modified by hormones, stretch, paracrine factors and the extracellular environment. We discuss evidence or not for pacemaker cells in the uterus. We also describe the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) in some detail, as it is relevant to calcium signalling and excitability. Ion channels, including store-operated ones, their contributions to excitability and action potentials, are covered. The main pathway to excitation is from depolarisation opening voltage-gated Ca2+ channels. Much of what happens downstream of excitability is common to other smooth muscles, with force depending upon the balance of myosin light kinase and phosphatase. Mechanisms of maintaining Ca2+ balance within the myocytes are discussed. Metabolism, and how it is intertwined with activity, blood flow and pH, is covered. Growth of the myometrium and changes in contractile proteins with pregnancy and parturition are also detailed. We finish with a description of uterine activity and why it is important, covering progression to labour as well as preterm and dysfunctional labours. We conclude by highlighting progress made and where further efforts are required.
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12
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Almohanna AM, Wray S. Hypoxic conditioning in blood vessels and smooth muscle tissues: effects on function, mechanisms, and unknowns. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2018; 315:H756-H770. [PMID: 29702009 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00725.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Hypoxic preconditioning, the protective effect of brief, intermittent hypoxic or ischemic episodes on subsequent more severe hypoxic episodes, has been known for 30 yr from studies on cardiac muscle. The concept of hypoxic preconditioning has expanded; excitingly, organs beyond the heart, including the brain, liver, and kidney, also benefit. Preconditioning of vascular and visceral smooth muscles has received less attention despite their obvious importance to health. In addition, there has been no attempt to synthesize the literature in this field. Therefore, in addition to overviewing the current understanding of hypoxic conditioning, in the present review, we consider the role of blood vessels in conditioning and explore evidence for conditioning in other smooth muscles. Where possible, we have distinguished effects on myocytes from other cell types in the visceral organs. We found evidence of a pivotal role for blood vessels in conditioning and for conditioning in other smooth muscle, including the bladder, vascular myocytes, and gastrointestinal tract, and a novel response in the uterus of a hypoxic-induced force increase, which helps maintain contractions during labor. To date, however, there are insufficient data to provide a comprehensive or unifying mechanism for smooth muscles or visceral organs and the effects of conditioning on their function. This also means that no firm conclusions can be drawn as to how differences between smooth muscles in metabolic and contractile activity may contribute to conditioning. Therefore, we have suggested what may be general mechanisms of conditioning occurring in all smooth muscles and tabulated tissue-specific mechanistic findings and suggested ideas for further progress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmaa M Almohanna
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Institute of Translational Medicine University of Liverpool , Liverpool , United Kingdom.,Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University , Riyadh , Saudi Arabia
| | - Susan Wray
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, Institute of Translational Medicine University of Liverpool , Liverpool , United Kingdom
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13
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Bafor EE, Rowan EG, Edrada-Ebel R. Metabolomics-Coupled Functional Pharmacology of Chlorophyll Compounds Isolated From the Leaves of Ficus Exasperata Vahl (Moraceae) Provides Novel Pathways on Myometrial Activity. Reprod Sci 2017; 25:923-937. [DOI: 10.1177/1933719117732159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Enitome E. Bafor
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria
| | - Edward G. Rowan
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - RuAngelie Edrada-Ebel
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom
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14
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Carreiro JN, Magnani M, Jobling P, van Helden DF, Nalivaiko E, Braga VA. Resveratrol restores uterine contractions during hypoxia by blockade of ATP-sensitive potassium channels. J Funct Foods 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jff.2017.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
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15
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Brasseur K, Gévry N, Asselin E. Chemoresistance and targeted therapies in ovarian and endometrial cancers. Oncotarget 2017; 8:4008-4042. [PMID: 28008141 PMCID: PMC5354810 DOI: 10.18632/oncotarget.14021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 126] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2016] [Accepted: 11/30/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Gynecological cancers are known for being very aggressive at their advanced stages. Indeed, the survival rate of both ovarian and endometrial cancers is very low when diagnosed lately and the success rate of current chemotherapy regimens is not very efficient. One of the main reasons for this low success rate is the acquired chemoresistance of these cancers during their progression. The mechanisms responsible for this acquired chemoresistance are numerous, including efflux pumps, repair mechanisms, survival pathways (PI3K/AKT, MAPK, EGFR, mTOR, estrogen signaling) and tumor suppressors (P53 and Par-4). To overcome these resistances, a new type of therapy has emerged named targeted therapy. The principle of targeted therapy is simple, taking advantage of changes acquired in malignant cancer cells (receptors, proteins, mechanisms) by using compounds specifically targeting these, thus limiting their action on healthy cells. Targeted therapies are emerging and many clinical trials targeting these pathways, frequently involved in chemoresistance, have been tested on gynecological cancers. Despite some targets being less efficient than expected as mono-therapies, the combination of compounds seems to be the promising avenue. For instance, we demonstrate using ChIP-seq analysis that estrogen downregulate tumor suppressor Par-4 in hormone-dependent cells by directly binding to its DNA regulatory elements and inhibiting estrogen signaling could reinstate Par-4 apoptosis-inducing abilities. This review will focus on the chemoresistance mechanisms and the clinical trials of targeted therapies associated with these, specifically for endometrial and ovarian cancers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Brasseur
- Research Group in Cellular Signaling, Department of Medical Biology, Canada Research Chair in Molecular Gyneco-Oncology, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, Québec, Canada
| | - Nicolas Gévry
- Département de Biologie, Faculté des Sciences, Université de Sherbrooke, Boulevard de l’Université, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Eric Asselin
- Research Group in Cellular Signaling, Department of Medical Biology, Canada Research Chair in Molecular Gyneco-Oncology, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, Québec, Canada
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16
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Bafor EE, Ebidame VO, Elvis-Offiah UB, Omoruyi O, Eze GI, Igbinuwen O, Braimoh KP. A role of alpha-tocopherol and phylloquinone in the modulation of uterine contractility and reproductive function in mouse models. Medicina (B Aires) 2017; 53:190-202. [DOI: 10.1016/j.medici.2017.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2016] [Revised: 04/05/2017] [Accepted: 05/08/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
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17
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Kyeong KS, Hong SH, Kim YC, Cho W, Myung SC, Lee MY, You RY, Kim CH, Kwon SY, Suzuki H, Park YJ, Jeong EH, Kim HS, Kim H, Lim SW, Xu WX, Lee SJ, Ji IW. Myometrial relaxation of mice via expression of two pore domain acid sensitive K(+) (TASK-2) channels. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF PHYSIOLOGY & PHARMACOLOGY : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN PHYSIOLOGICAL SOCIETY AND THE KOREAN SOCIETY OF PHARMACOLOGY 2016; 20:547-56. [PMID: 27610042 PMCID: PMC5015002 DOI: 10.4196/kjpp.2016.20.5.547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2016] [Revised: 08/01/2016] [Accepted: 08/08/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Myometrial relaxation of mouse via expression of two-pore domain acid sensitive (TASK) channels was studied. In our previous report, we suggested that two-pore domain acid-sensing K+ channels (TASK-2) might be one of the candidates for the regulation of uterine circular smooth muscles in mice. In this study, we tried to show the mechanisms of relaxation via TASK-2 channels in marine myometrium. Isometric contraction measurements and patch clamp technique were used to verify TASK conductance in murine myometrium. Western blot and immunehistochemical study under confocal microscopy were used to investigate molecular identity of TASK channel. In this study, we showed that TEA and 4-AP insensitive non-inactivating outward K+ current (NIOK) may be responsible for the quiescence of murine pregnant longitudinal myometrium. The characteristics of NIOK coincided with two-pore domain acid-sensing K+ channels (TASK-2). NIOK in the presence of K+ channel blockers was inhibited further by TASK inhibitors such as quinidine, bupivacaine, lidocaine, and extracellular acidosis. Furthermore, oxytocin and estrogen inhibited NIOK in pregnant myometrium. When compared to non-pregnant myometrium, pregnant myometrium showed stronger inhibition of NIOK by quinidine and increased immunohistochemical expression of TASK-2. Finally, TASK-2 inhibitors induced strong myometrial contraction even in the presence of L-methionine, a known inhibitor of stretch-activated channels in the longitudinal myometrium of mouse. Activation of TASK-2 channels seems to play an essential role for relaxing uterus during pregnancy and it might be one of the alternatives for preventing preterm delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyu-Sang Kyeong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chungbuk National University College of Medicine, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Seung Hwa Hong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chungbuk National University College of Medicine, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Young Chul Kim
- Department Physiology, Chungbuk National University College of Medicine, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Woong Cho
- Department of Pharmacology, Chungbuk National University College of Medicine, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Sun Chul Myung
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Korea
| | - Moo Yeol Lee
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, Chung-Ang University, Seoul 06974, Korea
| | - Ra Young You
- Department Physiology, Chungbuk National University College of Medicine, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Chan Hyung Kim
- Department of Pharmacology, Chungbuk National University College of Medicine, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | | | - Hikaru Suzuki
- Department of Physiology, Nagoya City University Medical School, Nagoya 467-8601, Japan
| | - Yeon Jin Park
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cheongju St. Mary's Hospital, Cheongju 28323, Korea
| | - Eun-Hwan Jeong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chungbuk National University College of Medicine, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Hak Soon Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chungbuk National University College of Medicine, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Heon Kim
- Department of Preventive Medicine, Chungbuk National University College of Medicine, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Seung Woon Lim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chungbuk National University College of Medicine, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Wen-Xie Xu
- Department of Physiology, Shanghai Jiaotong University, School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200240, P.R. China
| | - Sang Jin Lee
- Department of Medical Education, Chungbuk National University College of Medicine, Cheongju 28644, Korea
| | - Il Woon Ji
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chungbuk National University College of Medicine, Cheongju 28644, Korea
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18
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Hong SH, Kyeong KS, Kim CH, Kim YC, Choi W, Yoo RY, Kim HS, Park YJ, Ji IW, Jeong EH, Kim HS, Xu WX, Lee SJ. Regulation of myometrial contraction by ATP-sensitive potassium (KATP) channel via activation of SUR2B and Kir 6.2 in mouse. J Vet Med Sci 2016; 78:1153-9. [PMID: 27086859 PMCID: PMC4976271 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.15-0700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
ATP-sensitive potassium (KATP) channels are well characterized in cardiac,
pancreatic and many other muscle cells. In the present study, functional expression of the
KATP channel was examined in non-pregnant murine longitudinal myometrium.
Isometric contraction measurements and Western blot were used. KATP channel
openers (KCOs), such as pinacidil, cromakalim, diazoxide and nicorandil, inhibited
spontaneous myometrial contractions in a reversible and glibenclamide-sensitive manner.
KCOs inhibited oxytocin (OXT)- and prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α)-induced
phasic contractions in a glibenclamide-sensitive manner. SUR2B and Kir6.2 were detected by
Western blot, whereas SUR1, SUR2A and Kir6.1 were not. These results show that pinacidl,
cromakalim, diazoxide and nicorandil-sensitive KATP channels exist in murine
myometrium, which are composed of SUR2B and Kir6.2. Based on the modulatory effects of the
KATP channel on spontaneous contraction, OXT- and PGF2α-induced
contractions, KATP channels seem to play an essential role in murine myometrial
motility via activation of SUR2B and Kir6.2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung Hwa Hong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chungbuk National University (CBNU), Chungdae-ro 1, Seowon-gu, Cheongju, Chungbuk, 28644, Korea
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19
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Alotaibi M. The effect of cinnamon extract on isolated rat uterine strips. Reprod Biol 2015; 16:27-33. [PMID: 26952750 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2015.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2015] [Revised: 11/24/2015] [Accepted: 12/05/2015] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Cinnamon is a spice used by some populations as a traditional remedy to control blood pressure and thus hypertension. Cinnamon extract decreases contractility in some smooth muscles, but its effect on uterine smooth muscle is unknown. The aim of this study was to determine the physiological and pharmacological effects of cinnamon extract (CE) on the contractions of isolated rat uterine strips and to investigate its possible mechanism of action. Isolated longitudinal uterine strips were dissected from non-pregnant rats, mounted vertically in an organ bath chamber, and exposed to different concentrations of CE (10-20mg/mL). The effect of CE was investigated in the presence of each of the following solutions: 60mM KCl, 5nM oxytocin, and 1μM Bay K8644. CE significantly decreased the force of uterine contraction in a concentration-dependent manner and significantly attenuated the uterine contractions elicited by KCl and oxytocin. In addition, CE significantly decreased the contractile force elicited when L-type Ca(2+) channels were activated by Bay K8644. CE's major mechanism may be inhibition of L-type Ca(2+) channels, which limits calcium influx. These data demonstrate that CE can be a potent tocolytic that can decrease uterine activity regardless of how the force was produced, even when the uterus was stimulated by agonists. As a result, cinnamon may be used to alleviate menstrual pain associated with dysmenorrhoea or prevent unwanted uterine activity in early pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Alotaibi
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, King Saud University and King Khalid University Hospital, P.O Box 2925, Riyadh 11461, Saudi Arabia.
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20
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Dodds KN, Staikopoulos V, Beckett EAH. Uterine Contractility in the Nonpregnant Mouse: Changes During the Estrous Cycle and Effects of Chloride Channel Blockade. Biol Reprod 2015; 92:141. [PMID: 25926436 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.129809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2015] [Accepted: 04/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Mechanisms involved in the generation of spontaneous uterine contractions are not fully understood. Kit-expressing interstitial cells of Cajal are pacemakers of contractile rhythm in other visceral organs, and recent studies describe a role for Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) currents as the initiating conductance in these cells. The existence and role of similar specialized pacemaker cells in the nonpregnant uterus remains undetermined. Spontaneous contractility patterns were characterized throughout the estrous cycle in isolated, nonpregnant mouse uteri using spatiotemporal mapping and tension recordings. During proestrus, estrus, and diestrus, contraction origin predominated in the oviduct end of the uterus, suggesting the existence of a dominant pacemaker site. Propagation speed of contractions during estrus and diestrus were significantly slower than in proestrus and metestrus. Five major patterns of activity were predominantly exhibited in particular stages: quiescent (diestrus), high-frequency phasic (proestrus), low-frequency phasic (estrus), multivariant (metestrus), and complex. Kit-immunopositive cells reminiscent of pacemaking ICCs were not consistently observed within the uterus. Niflumic acid (10 μM), anthracene-9-carboxylic acid (0.1-1 mM), and 5-nitro-2-(3-phenylpropylamino)benzoic acid (10 μM) each reduced the frequency of spontaneous contractions, suggesting involvement of Cl(-) channels in generating spontaneous uterine motor activity. It is unlikely that this conductance is generated by the Ca(2+)-activated Cl(-) channels, anoctamin-1 and CLCA4, as immunohistochemical labeling did not reveal protein expression within muscle or pacemaker cell networks. In summary, these results suggest that spontaneous uterine contractions may be generated by a Kit-negative pacemaker cell type or uterine myocytes, likely involving the activity of a yet-unidentified Cl(-) channel.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsi N Dodds
- Discipline of Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Vasiliki Staikopoulos
- Discipline of Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Elizabeth A H Beckett
- Discipline of Physiology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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21
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Wray S, Burdyga T, Noble D, Noble K, Borysova L, Arrowsmith S. Progress in understanding electro-mechanical signalling in the myometrium. Acta Physiol (Oxf) 2015; 213:417-31. [PMID: 25439280 DOI: 10.1111/apha.12431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2014] [Revised: 11/11/2014] [Accepted: 11/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
In this review, we give a state-of-the-art account of uterine contractility, focussing on excitation-contraction (electro-mechanical) coupling (ECC). This will show how electrophysiological data and intracellular calcium measurements can be related to more modern techniques such as confocal microscopy and molecular biology, to advance our understanding of mechanical output and its modulation in the smooth muscle of the uterus, the myometrium. This new knowledge and understanding, for example concerning the role of the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR), or stretch-activated K channels, when linked to biochemical and molecular pathways, provides a clearer and better informed basis for the development of new drugs and targets. These are urgently needed to combat dysfunctions in excitation-contraction coupling that are clinically challenging, such as preterm labour, slow to progress labours and post-partum haemorrhage. It remains the case that scientific progress still needs to be made in areas such as pacemaking and understanding interactions between the uterine environment and ion channel activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Wray
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology; Institute of Translational Medicine; University of Liverpool; Liverpool Women's Hospital; Liverpool UK
| | - T. Burdyga
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology; Institute of Translational Medicine; University of Liverpool; Liverpool Women's Hospital; Liverpool UK
| | - D. Noble
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology; Institute of Translational Medicine; University of Liverpool; Liverpool Women's Hospital; Liverpool UK
| | - K. Noble
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology; Institute of Translational Medicine; University of Liverpool; Liverpool Women's Hospital; Liverpool UK
| | - L. Borysova
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology; Institute of Translational Medicine; University of Liverpool; Liverpool Women's Hospital; Liverpool UK
| | - S. Arrowsmith
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology; Institute of Translational Medicine; University of Liverpool; Liverpool Women's Hospital; Liverpool UK
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Costa AEA, Silva JLV, Simões MJ, Nouailhetas VLA. Morphofunctional alterations of the nonpregnant murine uterus in response to intense and exhaustive exercise are not related to oxidative stress. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2014; 116:604-10. [PMID: 24408993 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.01342.2012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Exercise is a common and noninvasive way to improve human health. In contrast, intense exercise causes damage in various tissues and is usually associated with metabolic changes in organs and tissues. Even though intense exercise is associated with dysfunctions in the female reproductive system, much less is known about the cellular mechanisms underlying its effects particularly on the nonpregnant uterus. We investigated whether the effects of an intense and exhaustive exercise (IEE) program on the isolated C57BL/6 uterine morphology and contractility might be related to increased levels of prooxidation markers. Female mice were submitted to 2 days of IEE. The daily exercise session consisted of a running session until exhaustion, with the treadmill speed set at 85% of each animal's maximum velocity. Training responses were evaluated through two parameters: time to exhaustion and maximum velocity. Absence of exercise-induced hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activation was indirectly evaluated by maintenance of the adrenal gland weight. IEE reduced the thickness of the longitudinal muscular layer by 10%, impaired contractility in response to muscarinic stimulation (increased EC50 and decreased Emax), but showed a strong trend to decreasing the KCl-induced contraction; reduced lipid peroxidation; and did not alter the uterine protein oxidation of exercised animals compared with control. Altogether we provide evidence for the nonpregnant murine uterus being an important target to IEE, leading to morphofunctional alterations which could not be associated with tissue oxidative stress but might well be related with exercise-induced uterine dysfunctions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra E A Costa
- Department of Biophysics, Universidade Federal de São Paulo/Escola Paulista de Medicina, São Paulo, Brazil
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Pehlivanoğlu B, Bayrak S, Doğan M. A close look at the contraction and relaxation of the myometrium; the role of calcium. J Turk Ger Gynecol Assoc 2013; 14:230-4. [PMID: 24592112 DOI: 10.5152/jtgga.2013.67763] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2013] [Accepted: 08/12/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The function and regulation of the myometrium, especially during pregnancy, labour and birth are important in reproductive physiology. It is crucial to understand the mechanisms that generate and modulate uterine contractility in order to be able to prevent and/or treat the problems related with the myometrium. A limited understanding of the cellular and molecular events underlying these phenomena complicates the situation. Various agonists, hormones, transmitters and/or chemicals are related to the regulation of the functions of the myometrium. Although notable advances regarding the key steps in receptor signalling explaining the actions of these factors have been achieved, a good deal of information is still necessary to understand this vital process. A better comprehension of myometrium physiology and the translation of research findings to clinical settings will help progress in women's health. In this review, we attempt to present a critical overview of myometrial functions and focus specifically on the role of calcium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bilge Pehlivanoğlu
- Department of Physiology, Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Sibel Bayrak
- Department of Physiology, Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Murat Doğan
- Department of Physiology, Hacettepe University Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
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24
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Hong SH, Sung R, Kim YC, Suzuki H, Choi W, Park YJ, Ji IW, Kim CH, Myung SC, Lee MY, Kang TM, You RY, Lee KJ, Lim SW, Yun HY, Song YJ, Xu WX, Kim HS, Lee SJ. Mechanism of Relaxation Via TASK-2 Channels in Uterine Circular Muscle of Mouse. THE KOREAN JOURNAL OF PHYSIOLOGY & PHARMACOLOGY : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE KOREAN PHYSIOLOGICAL SOCIETY AND THE KOREAN SOCIETY OF PHARMACOLOGY 2013; 17:359-65. [PMID: 23946696 PMCID: PMC3741493 DOI: 10.4196/kjpp.2013.17.4.359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2013] [Revised: 06/24/2013] [Accepted: 06/27/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Plasma pH can be altered during pregnancy and at labor. Membrane excitability of smooth muscle including uterine muscle is suppressed by the activation of K+ channels. Because contractility of uterine muscle is regulated by extracellular pH and humoral factors, K+ conductance could be connected to factors regulating uterine contractility during pregnancy. Here, we showed that TASK-2 inhibitors such as quinidine, lidocaine, and extracellular acidosis produced contraction in uterine circular muscle of mouse. Furthermore, contractility was significantly increased in pregnant uterine circular muscle than that of non-pregnant muscle. These patterns were not changed even in the presence of tetraetylammonium (TEA) and 4-aminopyridine (4-AP). Finally, TASK-2 inhibitors induced strong myometrial contraction even in the presence of L-methionine, a known inhibitor of stretchactivated channels in myometrium. When compared to non-pregnant myometrium, pregnant myometrium showed increased immunohistochemical expression of TASK-2. Therefore, TASK-2, seems to play a key role during regulation of myometrial contractility in the pregnancy and provides new insight into preventing preterm delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seung Hwa Hong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chungbuk National University College of Medicine, Cheongju 361-763, Korea
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Brasseur K, Leblanc V, Fabi F, Parent S, Descôteaux C, Bérubé G, Asselin E. ERα-targeted therapy in ovarian cancer cells by a novel estradiol-platinum(II) hybrid. Endocrinology 2013; 154:2281-95. [PMID: 23677930 DOI: 10.1210/en.2013-1083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
As we previously showed, we have synthesized a new family of 17β-estradiol-platinum(II) hybrids. Earlier studies revealed the VP-128 hybrid to show high efficiency compared with cisplatin toward hormone-dependent breast cancer cells. In the present research, we have studied the antitumor activity of VP-128 in vitro and in vivo against ovarian cancer. In nude mice with ovarian xenografts, VP-128 displayed selective activity toward hormone-dependent tumors and showed higher efficiency than cisplatin to inhibit tumor growth. Similarly, in vitro, transient transfection of estrogen receptor (ER)-α in ERα-negative A2780 cells increased their sensitivity to VP-128-induced apoptosis, confirming the selectivity of VP-128 toward hormone-dependent tumor cells. In agreement, Western blot analysis revealed that VP-128 induced higher caspase-9, caspase-3, and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase cleavage compared with cisplatin. The activation of caspase-independent apoptosis was also observed in ERα-negative A2780 cells, in which VP-128 rapidly induced the translocation of apoptosis-inducing factor to the nucleus. Conversely, subcellular localization of apoptosis-inducing factor was not modified in ERα-positive Ovcar-3 cells. We also discovered that VP-128 induces autophagy in ovarian cancer cells because of the formation of acidic vesicular organelles (AVOs) and increase of Light Chain 3B-II protein responsible for the formation of autophagosomes; pathways related to autophagy (AKT and mammalian target of rapamycin) were also down-regulated, supporting this mechanism. Finally, the inhibition of autophagy using chloroquine increased VP-128 efficiency, indicating a possible combination therapy. Altogether these results highlight the beneficial value of VP-128 for the treatment of hormone-dependent ovarian cancers and provide preliminary proof of concept for the efficient targeting of ERα- by 17β-estradiol-Pt(II)-linked chemotherapeutic hybrids in these tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Brasseur
- Research Group in Molecular Oncology and Endocrinology, Department of Medical Biology, Canada Research Chair in Molecular Gyneco-Oncology, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, Trois-Rivières, Québec, Canada G9A 5H7
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Robinson H, Wray S. A new slow releasing, H₂S generating compound, GYY4137 relaxes spontaneous and oxytocin-stimulated contractions of human and rat pregnant myometrium. PLoS One 2012; 7:e46278. [PMID: 23029460 PMCID: PMC3459845 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0046278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2012] [Accepted: 08/29/2012] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Better tocolytics are required to help prevent preterm labour. The gaseotransmitter Hydrogen sulphide (H2S) has been shown to reduce myometrial contractility and thus is of potential interest. However previous studies used NaHS, which is toxic and releases H2S as a non-physiological bolus and thus alternative H2S donors are sought. GYY4137 has been developed to slowly release H2S and hence better reflect endogenous physiological release. We have examined its effects on spontaneous and oxytocin-stimulated contractility and compared them to NaHS, in human and rat myometrium, throughout gestation. The effects on contractility in response to GYY4137 (1 nM–1 mM) and NaHS (1 mM) were examined on myometrial strips from, biopsies of women undergoing elective caesarean section or hysterectomy, and from non-pregnant, 14, 18, 22 day (term) gestation or labouring rats. In pregnant rat and human myometrium dose-dependent and significant decreases in spontaneous contractions were seen with increasing concentrations of GYY4137, which also reduced underlying Ca transients. GYY4137 and NaHS significantly reduced oxytocin-stimulated and high-K depolarised contractions as well as spontaneous activity. Their inhibitory effects increased as gestation advanced, but were abruptly reversed in labour. Glibenclamide, an inhibitor of ATP-sensitive potassium (KATP) channels, abolished the inhibitory effect of GYY4137. These data suggest (i) H2S contributes to uterine quiescence from mid-gestation until labor, (ii) that H2S affects L-type calcium channels and KATP channels reducing Ca entry and thereby myometrial contractions, (iii) add to the evidence that H2S plays a physiological role in relaxing myometrium, and thus (iv) H2S is an attractive target for therapeutic manipulation of human myometrial contractility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayley Robinson
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Susan Wray
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
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Arrowsmith S, Robinson H, Noble K, Wray S. What do we know about what happens to myometrial function as women age? J Muscle Res Cell Motil 2012; 33:209-17. [PMID: 22644420 PMCID: PMC3413813 DOI: 10.1007/s10974-012-9300-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2012] [Accepted: 05/11/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Much has been written about the effects of aging on reproductive function, especially female fertility. Much less is known about how aging may affect the contractility of the smooth muscle within the uterus, the myometrium. The myometrium is active through a woman’s entire life, not just during pregnancy. Here we will discuss briefly the contractile functions of the uterus and the changes it undergoes throughout the stages of a woman’s life from menstruation and the menopause, before evaluating the evidence for any changes in myometrial contractility and responses as women age, with a particular focus on women of advanced maternal age. We present original contractility analysis for the widest data set for human myometrium so far examined, and determine inherent spontaneous activity as well as responses to depolarisation and stimulation with oxytocin. Our data show that in the non-pregnant state there is a significant decrease in contractility for both spontaneous and depolarised-induced contractions, with age. We suggest that muscle atrophy and down regulation of Ca channels may account for this. Interestingly in pregnant myometrium we found a wide range of contractile ability between women and little evidence for decreased spontaneous activity between the ages of 25–40. Oxytocin responses appear to be more affected by aging, a finding that is consistent with previously reported clinical findings, and may partly be the result of membrane lipids such as cholesterol, increasing as women age. The marked differences between the age-related decline of force beyond age 30 in non-pregnant uterus, and the lack of difference in the pregnant state over this period, shows that the uterus retains its ability to respond to gestational hormones. The growth of the pregnant uterus and increase in content of myofibrillar proteins, may abolish any previous age-related force deficit. This finding is consistent with what is apparent for postmenopausal women in their 50s and 60s; that with the appropriate hormonal stimulation the uterus can allow an embryo to implant, and then without further intervention, carry the foetus to term. It is tempting therefore to speculate that unlike other well documented declines in female reproductive functions with age, the myometrium remains able to function into a woman’s 7th decade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Arrowsmith
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Physiology, Institute of Translational Medicine, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK.
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Konigame VC, Siu ER, Royer C, Lucas TFG, Porto CS, Abdalla FMF. Estrogen receptors mediate rapid activation of phospholipase C pathway in the rat endometrium. Steroids 2011; 76:1582-9. [PMID: 22005199 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2011.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2010] [Revised: 04/26/2011] [Accepted: 09/30/2011] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to investigate the activation of rapid signaling events by 17β-estradiol in the rat uterus. 17β-Estradiol induced a rapid increase of total [3H]-inositol phosphate accumulation in the whole uterus and endometrium, but not in the myometrium. The effect of 17β-estradiol in the endometrium was blocked by phospholipase C (PLC) inhibitor (U73122), estrogen receptors antagonist (ICI 182,780), exportin CRM1 inhibitor (leptomycin B) and selective inhibitor of the SRC family of protein tyrosine kinases (PP2). Furthermore, a selective agonist of ESR1 (PPT) and a selective agonist of GPER (G-1) also induced a rapid increase of total [(3)H]-inositol phosphate accumulation in the endometrium. The G-1 effects were blocked by GPER antagonist (G-15). 17β-Estradiol and G-1 promoted an additive effect on total [3H]-inositol phosphate accumulation. In conclusion, the present results indicate that a rapid activation of the PLC-mediated phosphoinositide hydrolysis occurred in the rat endometrium after 17β-estradiol stimulation, and this effect was mediated by ESR1 that underwent nuclear export after hormone stimulation, and that GPER activation may play an additive role for this response. These rapid actions might be one of the key steps that mediate the estrogen-dependent activation of cellular events in the endometrium.
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Monaghan K, Baker SA, Dwyer L, Hatton WC, Sik Park K, Sanders KM, Koh SD. The stretch-dependent potassium channel TREK-1 and its function in murine myometrium. J Physiol 2011; 589:1221-33. [PMID: 21224218 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2010.203869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Smooth muscle of the uterus stays remarkably quiescent during normal pregnancy to allow sufficient time for development of the fetus. At present the mechanisms leading to uterine quiescence during pregnancy and how the suppression of activity is relieved at term are poorly understood. Myometrial excitability is governed by ion channels, and a major hypothesis regarding the regulation of contractility during pregnancy has been that expression of certain channels is regulated by hormonal influences. We have explored the expression and function of stretch-dependent K+ (SDK) channels, which are likely to be due to TREK channels, in murine myometrial tissues and myocytes using PCR, Western blots, patch clamp, intracellular microelectrode and isometric force measurements. TREK-1 is more highly expressed than TREK-2 in myometrium, and there was no detectable expression of TRAAK. Expression of TREK-1 transcripts and protein was regulated during pregnancy and delivery. SDK channels were activated in response to negative pressure applied to patches. SDK channels were insensitive to a broad-spectrum of K+ channel blockers, including tetraethylammonium and 4-aminopyridine, and insensitive to intracellular Ca2+. SDK channels were activated by stretch and arachidonic acid and inhibited by reagents that block TREK-1 channels, l-methionine and/or methioninol. Our data suggest that uterine excitability and contractility during pregnancy is regulated by the expression of SDK/TREK-1 channels. Up-regulation of these channels stabilizes membrane potential and controls contraction during pregnancy and down-regulation of these channels induces the onset of delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Monaghan
- Department of Physiology and Cell Biology, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Reno, NV 89557, USA
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Expression and physiological roles of TRP channels in smooth muscle cells. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2011; 704:687-706. [PMID: 21290322 DOI: 10.1007/978-94-007-0265-3_36] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Smooth muscles are widely distributed in mammal body through various systems such as circulatory, respiratory, gastro-intestinal and urogenital systems. The smooth muscle cell (SMC) is not only a contractile cell but is able to perform other important functions such as migration, proliferation, production of cytokines, chemokines, extracellular matrix proteins, growth factors and cell surface adhesion molecules. Thus, SMC appears today as a fascinating cell with remarkable plasticity that contributes to its roles in physiology and disease. Most of the SMC functions are dependent on a key event: the increase in intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)). Calcium entry from the extracellular space is a major step in the elevation of [Ca(2+)](i) in SMC and involves a variety of plasmalemmal calcium channels, among them is the superfamily of transient receptor potential (TRP) proteins. TRPC (canonical), TRPM (melastatin), TRPV (vanilloid) and TRPP (polycystin), are widely expressed in both visceral (airways, gastrointestinal tract, uterus) and vascular (systemic and pulmonary circulation) smooth muscles. Mainly, TRPC, TRPV and TRPM are implicated in a variety of physiological and pathophysiological processes such as: SMC contraction, relaxation, growth, migration and proliferation; control of blood pressure, arterial myogenic tone, pulmonary hypertension, intestinal motility, gastric acidity, uterine activity during parturition and labor. Thus it is becoming evident that TRP are major element of SMC calcium homeostasis and, thus, appear as novel drug targets for a better management of diseases originating from SMC dysfunction.
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Stratton P, Berkley KJ. Chronic pelvic pain and endometriosis: translational evidence of the relationship and implications. Hum Reprod Update 2010; 17:327-46. [PMID: 21106492 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmq050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 256] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many clinicians and patients believe that endometriosis-associated pain is due to the lesions. Yet causality remains an enigma, because pain symptoms attributed to endometriosis occur in women without endometriosis and because pain symptoms and severity correlate poorly with lesion characteristics. Most research and reviews focus on the lesions, not the pain. This review starts with the recognition that the experience of pain is determined by the central nervous system (CNS) and focuses on the pain symptoms. METHODS Comprehensive searches of Pubmed, Medline and Embase were conducted for current basic and clinical research on chronic pelvic pain and endometriosis. The information was mutually interpreted by a basic scientist and a clinical researcher, both in the field of endometriosis. The goal was to develop new ways to conceptualize how endometriosis contributes to pain symptoms in the context of current treatments and the reproductive tract. RESULTS Endometriotic lesions can develop their own nerve supply, thereby creating a direct and two-way interaction between lesions and the CNS. This engagement provides a mechanism by which the dynamic and hormonally responsive nervous system is brought directly into play to produce a variety of individual differences in pain that can, in some women, become independent of the disease itself. CONCLUSIONS Major advances in improving understanding and alleviating pain in endometriosis will likely occur if the focus changes from lesions to pain. In turn, how endometriosis affects the CNS would be best examined in the context of mechanisms underlying other chronic pain conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Stratton
- Program in Reproductive and Adult Endocrinology, Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Development, National Institutes of Health, Bldg. 10, CRC, RM 1-3140, 10 Center Dr. MSC 1109, Bethesda, MD 20892-1109 USA.
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Burul-Bozkurt N, Pekiner C, Kelicen P. Diabetes alters aromatase enzyme levels in gonadal tissues of rats. NAUNYN-SCHMIEDEBERG'S ARCHIVES OF PHARMACOLOGY 2010; 382:33-41. [PMID: 20428845 DOI: 10.1007/s00210-010-0518-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2009] [Accepted: 04/12/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is associated with increased risk of reproductive problems. Estrogens have important roles in reproductive processes in both genders. Aromatase catalyzes the conversion of androgens to estrogens and is expressed in a variety of tissues. Although it is known that insulin regulate the activity of aromatase, there are few data about the effects of diabetes on this enzyme. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of experimental diabetes on aromatase expression levels in ovary, testis, uterus, and vas deferens tissues of female and male rats. Rats were injected with streptozotocin to induce diabetes. At the end of 4 and 12 weeks, tissue homogenates were prepared and evaluated for aromatase proteins by western blot. Uterus and vas deferens smooth muscle responses were also evaluated. Aromatase expression levels in ovary were significantly decreased both in 4 and 12 weeks of diabetes. In testis, enzyme levels were not altered at 4 weeks, but significantly decreased at 12 weeks of diabetes. In uterus and vas deferens tissues, no significant differences were observed at aromatase immunoreactivity but uterus and vas deferens smooth muscle responses were altered. These results indicated for the first time that DM altered the expression levels of aromatase both in ovary and testis but did not affect enzyme levels in uterus and vas deferens tissues. Altered smooth muscle responses did not correlate with tissue aromatase levels. Altogether, these findings lead us to suggest that aromatase might be an important target molecule in sexual dysfunction seen in DM.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Burul-Bozkurt
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacology, Hacettepe University, Sihhiye, Ankara, Turkey.
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A new MAP kinase protein involved in estradiol-stimulated reproduction of the helminth parasite Taenia crassiceps. J Biomed Biotechnol 2010; 2010:747121. [PMID: 20145710 PMCID: PMC2817376 DOI: 10.1155/2010/747121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2009] [Accepted: 10/12/2009] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
MAP kinases (MAPK) are involved in the regulation of cellular
processes such as reproduction and growth. In parasites, the role
of MAPK has been scarcely studied. Here, we describe the
participation of an ERK-like protein in estrogen-dependent
reproduction of the helminth parasite Taenia
crassiceps. Our results show that 17β-estradiol
induces a concentration-dependent increase in the bud number of in
vitro cultured cysticerci. If parasites are also incubated in
presence of an ERK-inhibitor, the stimulatory effect of estrogen
is blocked. The expression of ERK-like mRNA and its corresponding
protein was detected in the parasite. The ERK-like protein was
over-expressed by all treatments. Nevertheless, a strong induction
of phosphorylation of this protein was observed only in response
to 17β-estradiol. Cross-contamination by host cells was
discarded by flow cytometry analysis. Parasite cells expressing
the ERK-like protein were exclusively located at the subtegument
tissue by confocal microscopy. Finally, the ERK-like protein was
separated by bidimensional electrophoresis and then sequenced,
showing the conserved TEY activation motif, typical of all known
ERK 1/2 proteins. Our results show that an ERK-like protein is
involved in the molecular signalling during the interaction
between the host and T. crassiceps, and may be
considered as target for anti-helminth drugs design.
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Pinto FM, Pintado CO, Pennefather JN, Patak E, Candenas L. Ovarian steroids regulate tachykinin and tachykinin receptor gene expression in the mouse uterus. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2009; 7:77. [PMID: 19627578 PMCID: PMC2724541 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-7-77] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2009] [Accepted: 07/23/2009] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the mouse uterus, pregnancy is accompanied by changes in tachykinin and tachykinin receptor gene expression and in the uterotonic effects of endogenous tachykinins. In this study we have investigated whether changes in tachykinin expression and responses are a result of changes in ovarian steroid levels. METHODS We quantified the mRNAs of tachykinins and tachykinin receptors in uteri from ovariectomized mice and studied their regulation in response to estrogen and progesterone using real-time quantitative RT-PCR. Early (3 h) and late (24 h) responses to estrogen were evaluated and the participation of the estrogen receptors (ER), ERalpha and ERbeta, was analyzed by treating mice with propylpyrazole triol, a selective ERalpha agonist, or diarylpropionitrile, a selective agonist of ERbeta. RESULTS All genes encoding tachykinins (Tac1, Tac2 and Tac4) and tachykinin receptors (Tacr1, Tacr2 and Tacr3) were expressed in uteri from ovariectomized mice. Estrogen increased Tac1 and Tacr1 mRNA after 3 h and decreased Tac1 and Tac4 expression after 24 h. Tac2 and Tacr3 mRNA levels were decreased by estrogen at both 3 and 24 h. Most effects of estrogen were also observed in animals treated with propylpyrazole triol. Progesterone treatment increased the levels of Tac2. CONCLUSION These results show that the expression of tachykinins and their receptors in the mouse uterus is tightly and differentially regulated by ovarian steroids. Estrogen effects are mainly mediated by ERalpha supporting an essential role for this estrogen receptor in the regulation of the tachykinergic system in the mouse uterus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco M Pinto
- Instituto de Investigaciones Químicas, CSIC, Avda. Americo Vespucio 49, 41092, Sevilla, Spain
| | - C Oscar Pintado
- Centro de Producción y Experimentación Animal, Universidad de Sevilla, Sevilla, Spain
| | - Jocelyn N Pennefather
- Department of Pharmaceutical Biology, Monash University, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Eva Patak
- Department of Anaesthetics, Royal Women's Hospital, Carlton, Victoria 3051, Australia
| | - Luz Candenas
- Instituto de Investigaciones Químicas, CSIC, Avda. Americo Vespucio 49, 41092, Sevilla, Spain
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Kumcu EK, Büyüknacar HSG, Göçmen C, Evrüke IC, Onder S. Differential effect of neocuproine, a copper(I) chelator, on contractile activity in isolated ovariectomized non-pregnant rat, pregnant rat and pregnant human uterus. Eur J Pharmacol 2009; 605:158-63. [PMID: 19248249 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2009.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The study was conducted to examine effects of a selective copper(I) chelator, neocuproine on the spontaneous or oxytocin-induced contractions in isolated ovariectomized non-pregnant rat, pregnant rat and pregnant human uterus. Uterus activity was evaluated in tissues obtained from bilaterally ovariectomized non-pregnant rats on the 21st day of the operation (n = 24), pregnant rats on the 19-21st day of gestation (n = 24) and women undergoing caesarean section at 38-42 weeks of pregnancy (n = 15). Neocuproine (100 microM) significantly suppressed the amplitude and frequency of the spontaneous contractions in the ovariectomized non-pregnant rat uterus while this agent facilitated the frequency of the spontaneous or oxytocin-induced contractions in the pregnant rat and human uterus without altering the amplitude of these contractions. At high concentration of 200 microM, neocuproine could enhance the amplitude of the contractions in the pregnant uterus. These effects were blocked by a purinergic receptor antagonist, suramin (100 microM) and did not occur following the administration of neocuproine-copper(I) complex or copper(II) chelator cuprizone. alpha, beta-methylene ATP increased the amplitude and frequency of contractions in the pregnant uterus, but not affected the contractions in the ovariectomized non-pregnant rat uterus, and neocuproine potentiated this facilitation effect. However, the suppressive effect of neocuproine on the ovariectomized non-pregnant rat uterus increased in the presence of alpha,beta-methylene ATP. Beta-adrenoceptor blocker, propranolol or nitric oxide synthase inhibitor, L-nitroarginine did not affect the responses to neocuproine. These findings suggest that neocuproine can affect the uterus contractile activity by modulation purinergic excitatory responses and that copper(I)-sensitive mechanisms may play a role in this effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eda Karabal Kumcu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, University of Cukurova, Adana, Turkey.
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Abstract
Smooth muscle cell (SMC) contraction is controlled by the Ca2+ and Rho kinase signalling pathways. While the SMC Rho kinase system seems to be reasonably constant, there is enormous variation with regard to the mechanisms responsible for generating Ca2+ signals. One way of dealing with this diversity is to consider how this system has been adapted to control different SMC functions. Phasic SMCs (vas deferens, uterus and bladder) rely on membrane depolarization to drive Ca2+ influx across the plasma membrane. This depolarization can be induced by neurotransmitters or through the operation of a membrane oscillator. Many tonic SMCs (vascular, airway and corpus cavernosum) are driven by a cytosolic Ca2+ oscillator that generates periodic pulses of Ca2+. A similar oscillator is present in pacemaker cells such as the interstitial cells of Cajal (ICCs) and atypical SMCs that control other tonic SMCs (gastrointestinal, urethra, ureter). The changes in membrane potential induced by these cytosolic oscillators does not drive contraction directly but it functions to couple together individual oscillators to provide the synchronization that is a characteristic feature of many tonic SMCs.
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