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Xiao Y, Zhang J, Tian Y, Zhang M, Du Y, Meng L, Liu Y, Zhang Z, Qiu L, Chen Y, Dong Q, Chen L, Gao J, Zheng J, Li Z, Li Q, Dai J, Huang X. Vaginal reconstruction with a double-sided biomembrane-a preclinical experimental study on large animals. Biomater Sci 2023; 11:7077-7089. [PMID: 37655798 DOI: 10.1039/d3bm00155e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Tissue engineering techniques bring the promise of vaginal reconstruction with low invasiveness and fewer complications. However, existing biomaterial scaffolds remain limited in efficient vaginal recovery, focusing only on regenerating an epithelial layer, but muscle layers are missing or abnormal. The lack of a multi-tissue hierarchical structure in the reconstructed vagina leads to shrinking, stenosis, and fibrosis. Here, an acellular matrix named a double-sided biomembrane (DBM) is demonstrated for vaginal recovery. The regeneration of epithelial and muscle layers is achieved simultaneously since the smooth side of the DBM is helpful for guiding epithelial cell growth, while its loose and porous side guides muscle cell growth. In addition, the DBM demonstrates excellent mechanical properties similar to vaginal tissue, and hydrophilicity. Therefore, neovaginas were observed in the fourth and twelfth weeks after DBMs were transplanted to repair full-thickness vaginal defects (4 cm) that we established in large animals. The DBMs can effectively promote rapid epithelialization, the formation of large muscle bundles, higher rates of angiogenesis, and the restoration of physiological function in a neovagina. That is, the injured vagina achieves nearly complete recovery in anatomy and function, similar to a normal vagina. These preclinical results indicate that the DBM has prospects for vaginal injury repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanlai Xiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical, University, 215 Heping West Road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Third Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Jingkun Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical, University, 215 Heping West Road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China.
| | - Yanpeng Tian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical, University, 215 Heping West Road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China.
| | - Mingle Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical, University, 215 Heping West Road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China.
| | - Yanfang Du
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical, University, 215 Heping West Road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China.
| | - Li Meng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical, University, 215 Heping West Road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China.
| | - Yibin Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical, University, 215 Heping West Road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China.
| | - Zhiqiang Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical, University, 215 Heping West Road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China.
| | - Linzi Qiu
- Key Laboratory for Nano-Bio Interface Research, Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, China
| | - Yanyan Chen
- Key Laboratory for Nano-Bio Interface Research, Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, China
| | - Qun Dong
- The DB Wuderegen Biomedical Technologies Co., Ltd, Zhenjiang, China
| | - Liang Chen
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Forth Hospital of Shijiazhuang, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Jingui Gao
- Department of Anesthesiology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China
| | - Jiahua Zheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical, University, 215 Heping West Road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China.
| | - Zhongkang Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical, University, 215 Heping West Road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China.
| | - Qian Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical, University, 215 Heping West Road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China.
| | - Jianwu Dai
- Key Laboratory for Nano-Bio Interface Research, Division of Nanobiomedicine, Suzhou Institute of Nano-Tech and Nano-Bionics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Suzhou, China
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Development Biology, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100101, China.
| | - Xianghua Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Hebei Medical, University, 215 Heping West Road, Shijiazhuang, Hebei, China.
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Kim T, Chung HS, Lee HS, Uthaman S, Park IK, Park K. Effects of retinoid-loaded hyaluronic acid nanomicelles on vaginal epithelium in a murine menopause model. Investig Clin Urol 2023; 64:182-188. [PMID: 36882178 PMCID: PMC9995954 DOI: 10.4111/icu.20220366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 12/28/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aimed to develop hyaluronic acid (HA)-based, retinoic acid (RA)-containing nanomicelles and to investigate the effects of these newly developed nanomicelles on regeneration of the vaginal epithelium and aquaporin 3 (AQP3) expression in a murine menopause model. MATERIALS AND METHODS The HA-based, RA-loaded nanomicelles were developed, and the RA-loading rate, encapsulation efficiency, and hydrodynamic diameter were measured. Female BALB/c mice (8 weeks; n=30) were divided into control and experimental groups. Menopause was established in the experimental group by removing both ovaries. The experimental group was further divided into an ovariectomy group, an HA-C18 vehicle group, and an HA-C18-RA group (2.5 µg per mouse); vaginal administration of HA-C18 or HA-C18-RA was performed once daily. After 4 weeks of treatment, murine vaginal tissue was removed, and histological analysis was performed. RESULTS Three drug-loaded nanomicelles were synthesized: the RA content in HA-C18-RA-10, HA-C18-RA-20, and HA-C18-RA-30 was 3.13%, 2.52%, and 16.67%, respectively, and the RA encapsulation efficiency was 95.57%, 83.92%, and 93.24%, respectively. In the experimental versus control group, serum estrogen levels were significantly reduced, and the vaginal mucosal epithelial layer was significantly thinner. After 4 weeks of treatment, the thickness of the vaginal mucosal epithelial layer and AQP3 expression was increased in the HA-C18-RA group compared with the HA-C18 vehicle group. CONCLUSIONS The newly developed HA-based nanomicelles containing RA resulted in vaginal epithelial recovery and increased AQP3 expression. The results may contribute to the development of functional vaginal lubricants or moisturizers for the treatment of vaginal dryness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taehee Kim
- Department of Urology, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Ho Seok Chung
- Department of Urology, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Hyun-Suk Lee
- Department of Urology, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Saji Uthaman
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Center for Global Future Biomedical Scientists at Chonnam National University, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea
| | - In-Kyu Park
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Center for Global Future Biomedical Scientists at Chonnam National University, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Kwangsung Park
- Department of Urology, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea.
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Importance of Water Transport in Mammalian Female Reproductive Tract. Vet Sci 2023; 10:vetsci10010050. [PMID: 36669051 PMCID: PMC9865491 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10010050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2022] [Revised: 12/26/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Aquaporins (AQPs) are involved in water homeostasis in tissues and are ubiquitous in the reproductive tract. AQPs are classified into classical aquaporins (AQP0, 1, 2, 4, 5, 6 and 8), aquaglycerolporins (AQP3, 7, 9, and 10) and superaquaporins (AQP11 and 12). Nine AQPs were described in the mammalian female reproductive tract. Some of their functions are influenced by sexual steroid hormones. The continuous physiological changes that occur throughout the sexual cycle, pregnancy and parturition, modify the expression of AQPs, thus creating at every moment the required water homeostasis. AQPs in the ovary regulate follicular development and ovulation. In the vagina and the cervix, AQPs are involved mainly in lubrication. In the uterus, AQPs are mostly mediated by estradiol and progesterone to prepare the endometrium for possible embryo implantation and fetal development. In the placenta, AQPs are responsible for the fluid support to the fetus to maintain fetal homeostasis that ensures correct fetal development as pregnancy goes on. This review is focused on understanding the role of AQPs in the mammalian female reproductive tract during the sexual cycle of pregnancy and parturition.
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Zhang H, Yang B. Aquaporins in Reproductive System. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2023; 1398:179-194. [PMID: 36717494 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-19-7415-1_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
AQP0-12, a total of 13 aquaporins are expressed in the mammalian reproductive system. These aquaporins mediate the transport of water and small solutes across biofilms for maintaining reproductive tract water balance and germ cell water homeostasis. These aquaporins play important roles in the regulation of sperm and egg cell production, maturation, and fertilization processes. Impaired AQP function may lead to diminished male and female fertility. This review focuses on the distribution, function, and regulation of AQPs throughout the male and female reproductive organs and tracts. Their correlation with reproductive success, revealing recent advances in the physiological and pathophysiological roles of aquaporins in the reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Zhang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Baoxue Yang
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China.
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Wierzbicka A, Mańkowska-Wierzbicka D, Cieślewicz S, Stelmach-Mardas M, Mardas M. Interventions Preventing Vaginitis, Vaginal Atrophy after Brachytherapy or Radiotherapy Due to Malignant Tumors of the Female Reproductive Organs-A Systematic Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:3932. [PMID: 33918070 PMCID: PMC8070443 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18083932] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Revised: 04/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Radiotherapy, as a method of treatment of cervical and uterine cancers, may induce severe late-onset vaginal side effects. Unfortunately, little evidence on the management of adverse effects has been presented. This study aimed to evaluate the available interventions which reduce symptoms of vaginitis and vaginal atrophy by improving dyspareunia, mucosal inflammation, vaginal pH and vaginal dryness in women who have undergone brachytherapy or radiotherapy due to uterine or cervical malignancies. MATERIALS AND METHODS A comprehensive literature search was performed following PRISMA guidelines. The systematic search was conducted using electronic databases, namely Scopus, Web of Science and PubMed, between October and November 2020 to identify randomized controlled trials (RCT) and, prospective randomized studies (PRS). RESULTS The analyzed population consists of 376 patients with uterine or cervical cancer, treated with hyaluronic acid, vitamin A, vitamin E, alpha-tocopherol acetate and dienestrol. Intervention with HA along with vitamin A and vitamin E revealed advantage in endpoints such as reduced dyspareunia, vaginal mucosal inflammation, vaginal dryness, bleeding, fibrosis and cellular atypia. Administration of alpha-tocopherol acetate reduced vaginal mucosal inflammation and improved vaginal acanthosis, whereas dienestrol resulted in reduced dyspareunia, vaginal caliber and bleeding. CONCLUSIONS Vaginal suppositories were found to be clinically effective at the management of late-onset vulvovaginal side effects after radiotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrianna Wierzbicka
- Department of Obesity Treatment, Metabolic Disorders and Clinical Dietetics, Poznan University of Medical Science, Szamarzewskiego 84 St, 60-569 Poznan, Poland
| | - Dorota Mańkowska-Wierzbicka
- Department of Gastroenterology, Dietetics and Internal Medicine, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Heliodor Święcicki Hospital, Przybyszewskiego 49, 60-355 Poznań, Poland
| | - Stanisław Cieślewicz
- Department of Oncology, Poznan University of Medical Science, Szamarzewskiego 82/84 St, 60-569 Poznan, Poland
| | - Marta Stelmach-Mardas
- Department of Obesity Treatment, Metabolic Disorders and Clinical Dietetics, Poznan University of Medical Science, Szamarzewskiego 84 St, 60-569 Poznan, Poland
| | - Marcin Mardas
- Department of Oncology, Poznan University of Medical Science, Szamarzewskiego 82/84 St, 60-569 Poznan, Poland
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Targeting Aquaporins in Novel Therapies for Male and Female Breast and Reproductive Cancers. Cells 2021; 10:cells10020215. [PMID: 33499000 PMCID: PMC7911300 DOI: 10.3390/cells10020215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Aquaporins are membrane channels in the broad family of major intrinsic proteins (MIPs), with 13 classes showing tissue-specific distributions in humans. As key physiological modulators of water and solute homeostasis, mutations, and dysfunctions involving aquaporins have been associated with pathologies in all major organs. Increases in aquaporin expression are associated with greater severity of many cancers, particularly in augmenting motility and invasiveness for example in colon cancers and glioblastoma. However, potential roles of altered aquaporin (AQP) function in reproductive cancers have been understudied to date. Published work reviewed here shows distinct classes aquaporin have differential roles in mediating cancer metastasis, angiogenesis, and resistance to apoptosis. Known mechanisms of action of AQPs in other tissues are proving relevant to understanding reproductive cancers. Emerging patterns show AQPs 1, 3, and 5 in particular are highly expressed in breast, endometrial, and ovarian cancers, consistent with their gene regulation by estrogen response elements, and AQPs 3 and 9 in particular are linked with prostate cancer. Continuing work is defining avenues for pharmacological targeting of aquaporins as potential therapies to reduce female and male reproductive cancer cell growth and invasiveness.
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Ribeiro JC, Alves MG, Yeste M, Cho YS, Calamita G, Oliveira PF. Aquaporins and (in)fertility: More than just water transport. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2020; 1867:166039. [PMID: 33338597 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2020.166039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Aquaporins (AQPs) are a family of channel proteins that facilitate the transport of water and small solutes across biological membranes. They are widely distributed throughout the organism, having a number of key functions, some of them unexpected, both in health and disease. Among the various diseases in which AQPs are involved, infertility has been overlooked. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) infertility is a global public health problem with one third of the couples suffering from subfertility or even infertility due to male or female factors alone or combined. Thus, there is an urgent need to unveil the molecular mechanisms that control gametes production, maturation and fertilization-related events, to more specifically determine infertility causes. In addition, as more couples seek for fertility treatment through assisted reproductive technologies (ART), it is pivotal to understand how these techniques can be improved. AQPs are heterogeneously expressed throughout the male and female reproductive tracts, highlighting a possible regulatory role for these proteins in conception. In fact, their function, far beyond water transport, highlights potential intervention points to enhance ART. In this review we discuss AQPs distribution and structural organization, functions, and modulation throughout the male and female reproductive tracts and their relevance to the reproductive success. We also highlight the most recent advances and research trends regarding how the different AQPs are involved and regulated in specific mechanisms underlying (in)fertility. Finally, we discuss the involvement of AQPs in ART-related processes and how their handling can lead to improvement of infertility treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- João C Ribeiro
- Department of Anatomy, and Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal; QOPNA & LAQV, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Marco G Alves
- Department of Anatomy, and Unit for Multidisciplinary Research in Biomedicine (UMIB), Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, E-17003 Girona, Spain; Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, E-17003 Girona, Spain
| | - Yoon S Cho
- Centro di Procreazione Medicalmente Assistita, Ospedale Santa Maria, Bari, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Calamita
- Dept. of Biosciences, Biotechnologies and Biopharmaceutics, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", Bari, Italy
| | - Pedro F Oliveira
- QOPNA & LAQV, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Portugal.
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Kordowitzki P, Kranc W, Bryl R, Kempisty B, Skowronska A, Skowronski MT. The Relevance of Aquaporins for the Physiology, Pathology, and Aging of the Female Reproductive System in Mammals. Cells 2020; 9:cells9122570. [PMID: 33271827 PMCID: PMC7760214 DOI: 10.3390/cells9122570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2020] [Revised: 11/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Aquaporins constitute a group of water channel proteins located in numerous cell types. These are pore-forming transmembrane proteins, which mediate the specific passage of water molecules through membranes. It is well-known that water homeostasis plays a crucial role in different reproductive processes, e.g., oocyte transport, hormonal secretion, completion of successful fertilization, blastocyst formation, pregnancy, and birth. Further, aquaporins are involved in the process of spermatogenesis, and they have been reported to be involved during the storage of spermatozoa. It is noteworthy that aquaporins are relevant for the physiological function of specific parts in the female reproductive system, which will be presented in detail in the first section of this review. Moreover, they are relevant in different pathologies in the female reproductive system. The contribution of aquaporins in selected reproductive disorders and aging will be summarized in the second section of this review, followed by a section dedicated to aquaporin-related proteins. Since the relevance of aquaporins for the male reproductive system has been reviewed several times in the recent past, this review aims to provide an update on the distribution and impact of aquaporins only in the female reproductive system. Therefore, this paper seeks to determine the physiological and patho-physiological relevance of aquaporins on female reproduction, and female reproductive aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paweł Kordowitzki
- Department of Basic and Preclinical Sciences, Institute for Veterinary Medicine, Nicolaus Copernicus University, 87-100 Torun, Poland;
- Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research of Polish Academy of Sciences, 10-243 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Wiesława Kranc
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-781 Poznan, Poland; (W.K.); (R.B.); (B.K.)
| | - Rut Bryl
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-781 Poznan, Poland; (W.K.); (R.B.); (B.K.)
| | - Bartosz Kempisty
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-781 Poznan, Poland; (W.K.); (R.B.); (B.K.)
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-781 Poznan, Poland
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Institute for Veterinary Medicine, Nicolaus Copernicus University, 87-100 Torun, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Skowronska
- Department of Human Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Medicine, Collegium Medicum, University of Warmia and Mazury, Warszawska Street 30, 10-082 Olsztyn, Poland;
| | - Mariusz T. Skowronski
- Department of Basic and Preclinical Sciences, Institute for Veterinary Medicine, Nicolaus Copernicus University, 87-100 Torun, Poland;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +48-56-611-2231
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Im JW, Lee CY, Kim DH, Bae HR. Differential Expressions of Aquaporin Subtypes in Female Reproductive Tract of Mice. Dev Reprod 2020; 24:177-185. [PMID: 33110949 PMCID: PMC7576970 DOI: 10.12717/dr.2020.24.3.177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Although many aquaporin (AQP) transcripts have been demonstrated to express in
the female reproductive tract, the defined localizations and functions of AQP
subtype proteins remain unclear. In this study, we investigated the expression
of AQP1, AQP3, AQP5, AQP6, and AQP9 proteins in female reproductive tract of
mouse and characterized their precise localizations at the cellular and
subcellular levels. Immunofluorescence analyses for AQP1, AQP3, AQP6, and AQP9
showed that these proteins were abundantly expressed in female reproductive
tract and that intense immunoreactivities were observed in mucosa epithelial
cells with a subtype-specific pattern. The most abundant aquaporin in both
vagina and uterine cervix was AQP3. Each of AQP1, AQP3, AQP6, and AQP9 exhibited
its distinct distribution in stratified squamous or columnar epithelial cells.
AQP9 expression was predominant in oviduct and ovary. AQP1, AQP3, AQP6, and AQP9
proteins were mostly seen in apical membrane of ciliated epithelial cells of the
oviduct as well as in both granulosa and theca cells of ovarian follicles. Most
of AQP subtypes were also expressed in surface epithelial cells and glandular
cells of endometrium in the uterus, but their expression levels were relatively
lower than those observed in the vagina, uterine cervix, oviduct and ovary. This
is the first study to investigate the expression and localization of 5 AQP
subtype proteins simultaneously in female reproductive tract of mouse. Our
results suggest that AQP subtypes work together to transport water and glycerol
efficiently across the mucosa epithelia for lubrication, proliferation, energy
metabolism and pH regulation in female reproductive tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji Woo Im
- Dept. of Physiology, College of Medicine, Dong-A University, Busan 49201, Korea
| | - Chae Young Lee
- Dept. of Physiology, College of Medicine, Dong-A University, Busan 49201, Korea
| | - Dong-Hwan Kim
- Human Life Research Center, Dong-A University, Busan 49315, Korea
| | - Hae-Rahn Bae
- Dept. of Physiology, College of Medicine, Dong-A University, Busan 49201, Korea.,Human Life Research Center, Dong-A University, Busan 49315, Korea
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McNabney SM, Wiese GN, Rowland DL. From Table to Bedroom: Nutritional Status, Dietary Interventions, and Women’s Sexual Function. CURRENT SEXUAL HEALTH REPORTS 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s11930-019-00224-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Tan NAS, Giribabu N, Karim K, Nyamathulla S, Salleh N. Intravaginal treatment with Marantodes pumilum (Kacip Fatimah) ameliorates vaginal atrophy in rats with post-menopausal condition. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2019; 236:9-20. [PMID: 30771519 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2019.02.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2018] [Revised: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/12/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Marantodes pumilum (MP) (Kacip Fatimah) is used to maintain the well-being of post-menopausal women. However, its role in ameliorating post menopause-related vaginal atrophy (VA) is unknown. AIMS To investigate the ability of intravaginal MP gel treatment to ameliorate VA in sex-steroid deficient condition, mimicking post-menopause. METHODS Ovariectomized female Sprague-Dawley rats received MP (100 μg/ml, 250 μg/ml and 500 μg/ml) and estriol (E) gels intravaginally for seven consecutive days. Rats were then euthanized and vagina was harvested and subjected for histological and protein expression and distribution analyses. Vaginal ultrastructure was observed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). RESULTS Thickness of vaginal epithelium increased with increasing intravaginal MP doses. Additionally, increased in expression and distribution of proliferative protein i.e. PCNA, tight junction protein i.e. occludin, water channel proteins i.e. AQP-1 and AQP-2 and proton extruder protein i.e. V-ATPase A1 were observed in the vagina following intravaginal MP and E gels treatment. Intravaginal MP and E gels also induced desmosome formation and approximation of the intercellular spaces between the vaginal epithelium. CONCLUSIONS Intravaginal MP was able to ameliorate features associated with VA; thus, it has potential to be used as an agent to treat this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nur Amanina Syariff Tan
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Nelli Giribabu
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Kamarulzaman Karim
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Shaik Nyamathulla
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Naguib Salleh
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
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Muytjens CMJ, Yu Y, Diamandis EP. Functional proteomic profiling reveals KLK13 and TMPRSS11D as active proteases in the lower female reproductive tract. F1000Res 2019; 7:1666. [PMID: 30647911 PMCID: PMC6329257 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.16255.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Cervical-vaginal fluid (CVF) hydrates the mucosa of the lower female reproductive tract and is known to contain numerous proteases. The low pH of CVF (4.5 or below in healthy women of reproductive age) is a uniquely human attribute and poses a challenge for the proteolytic functioning of the proteases identified in this complex biological fluid. Despite the abundance of certain proteases in CVF, the proteolytic activity and function of proteases in CVF is not well characterized. Methods: In the present study, we employed fluorogenic substrate screening to investigate the influence of pH and inhibitory compounds on the proteolytic activity in CVF. Activity-based probe (ABP) proteomics has evolved as a powerful tool to investigate active proteases within complex proteomes and a trypsin-specific ABP was used to identify active proteases in CVF. Results: Serine proteases are among the most abundant proteins in the CVF proteome. Labeling human CVF samples with the trypsin-specific ABP revealed serine proteases transmembrane protein serine 11D and kallikrein-related peptidase 13 as active proteases in CVF. Furthermore, we demonstrated that the proteolytic activity in CVF is highly pH-dependent with an almost absolute inhibition of trypsin-like proteolytic activity at physiological pH levels. Conclusions: These findings provide a framework to understand proteolytic activity in CVF. Furthermore, the present results provide clues for a novel regulatory mechanism in which fluctuations in CVF pH have the potential to control the catalytic activity in the lower female reproductive tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla M J Muytjens
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Yijing Yu
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Eleftherios P Diamandis
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Clinical Biochemistry, University Health Network, Canada, Toronto, Canada
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13
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Identification and localization of epithelial progenitor cells in the vagina. Int J Impot Res 2018; 31:46-49. [PMID: 30254307 DOI: 10.1038/s41443-018-0079-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2017] [Revised: 07/19/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to identify and localize mucosal epithelial progenitor cells (EPCs) in the rat vagina. Rat vagina was obtained from f77emale Sprague-Dawley rats (12 weeks old, n = 20). To identify EPCs in vagina, we followed a single-cell isolation protocol and analyzed the number of cells staining positive for EPC markers by flow cytometry. The expression of EPC-specific markers (CD44, ERα, PR) was evaluated by immunofluorescence. As shown by confocal immunofluorescence, CD44/ERα double-labeled cells were mainly expressed in the basal cell and suprabasal cell layers. Immunofluorescent staining of CD44 was expressed in the plasma membrane of the vaginal epithelium, and ERα was expressed in the cytoplasm of the vaginal epithelium. The CD44/ERα double-positive cells were noted in the rat vagina by flow cytometric analysis. PR-labeled cells were localized in the intermediate layer of the epithelial space of the vagina. The results revealed the existence of EPCs in the vagina. These findings imply that resident EPCs may have a role in the regeneration of vaginal mucosa.
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Wawrzkiewicz-Jałowiecka A, Kowalczyk K, Pluta D, Blukacz Ł, Madej P. The role of aquaporins in polycystic ovary syndrome - A way towards a novel drug target in PCOS. Med Hypotheses 2017; 102:23-27. [PMID: 28478824 DOI: 10.1016/j.mehy.2017.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2016] [Accepted: 03/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Aquaporins (AQPs) are transmembrane proteins, able to transport water (and in some cases also small solutes, e. g. glycerol) through the cell membrane. There are twelve types of aquaporins (AQP1-AQP12) expressed in mammalian reproductive systems. According to literature, many diseases of the reproductive organs are correlated with changes of AQPs expression and their malfunction. That is the case in the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), where dysfunctions of AQPs 7-9 and alterations in its levels occur. In this work, we postulate how AQPs are involved in PCOS-related disorders, in order to emphasize their potential therapeutic meaning as a drug target. Our research allows for a surprising inference, that genetic mutation causing malfunction and/or decreased expression of aquaporins, may be incorporated in the popular insulin-dependent hypothesis of PCOS pathogenesis. What is more, changes in AQP's expression may affect the folliculogenesis and follicular atresia in PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agata Wawrzkiewicz-Jałowiecka
- Department of Physical Chemistry and Technology of Polymers, Faculty of Chemistry, Silesian University of Technology, 44-100 Gliwice, Ks. M. Strzody 9, Poland.
| | - Karolina Kowalczyk
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical Faculty in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, 40-752 Katowice, Poland
| | - Dagmara Pluta
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical Faculty in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, 40-752 Katowice, Poland
| | - Łukasz Blukacz
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical Faculty in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, 40-752 Katowice, Poland
| | - Paweł Madej
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology, Medical Faculty in Katowice, Medical University of Silesia, 40-752 Katowice, Poland
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Zare-Shahabadi A, Langroodi HG, Azimi AR, Sahraian MA, Harirchian MH, Baghbanian SM. Neuromyelitis optica and pregnancy. Acta Neurol Belg 2016; 116:431-438. [PMID: 27306993 DOI: 10.1007/s13760-016-0654-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2016] [Accepted: 05/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) and the associated NMO spectrum disorders are demyelinating disorders affecting the spinal cord and optic nerves. It has prominent female predominance and many of these patients are in their childbearing years. As pregnancy seems to have a major impact on this disease course, in this review, recent studies with a focus on this disease and pregnancy and safety of available treatment options during this period are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ameneh Zare-Shahabadi
- Department of Neurology, MS Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Sina Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Science, Imam Khomeini Ave., Hasan Abad Sq., Tehran, Iran
- Psychiatry and Psychology Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamidreza Ghalyanchi Langroodi
- Department of Neurology, MS Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Sina Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Science, Imam Khomeini Ave., Hasan Abad Sq., Tehran, Iran
| | - Amir Reza Azimi
- Department of Neurology, MS Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Sina Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Science, Imam Khomeini Ave., Hasan Abad Sq., Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ali Sahraian
- Department of Neurology, MS Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Sina Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Science, Imam Khomeini Ave., Hasan Abad Sq., Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hossein Harirchian
- Iranian Center of Neurological Researches, Imam Khomeini Hospital, Tehran University of Medical Science, Keshavarz Blvd., Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Mohammad Baghbanian
- Neurology Department, Booalisina Hospital, Mazandaran University of Medical Science, Pasdaran Boulevard, Sari, Iran.
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16
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Lee HS, Kim SO, Ahn K, Park K. All-Trans Retinoic Acid Increases Aquaporin 3 Expression in Human Vaginal Epithelial Cells. Sex Med 2016; 4:e249-e254. [PMID: 27461974 PMCID: PMC5121539 DOI: 10.1016/j.esxm.2016.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/29/2016] [Revised: 06/23/2016] [Accepted: 07/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Water channel aquaporin 3 (AQP3) is an aquaglyceroporin that transports small neutral solutes and water. All-trans retinoic acid (ATRA), a member of the retinoid drug class, acts as a regulator in several biological processes. Aim To investigate the effect of ATRA on the expression of AQP3 in human vaginal epithelial cells. Methods Human vaginal mucosal epithelial cells (CRL2616) were treated with ATRA 0, 0.01, 0.1, and 1 μmol/L for 24 hours to examine the dose-dependent effects of ATRA and with ATRA 1 μmol/L for 0, 3, 6, 12, and 24 hours. Main Outcome Measures The expression of AQP3 and retinoic acid receptor (RAR) was determined by western blot analysis and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Results AQP3 was detected in the cell membrane of human vaginal epithelial cells. ATRA increased the protein expression and mRNA levels of AQP3 in a dose-dependent manner (P < .05). ATRA also increased the protein expression of RARα (P < .05). Treatment of CRL2616 cells with an RAR antagonist (Ro 41-5253) significantly decreased AQP3 protein expression (P < .05). Conclusion ATRA mediated by RARα increased AQP3 gene and protein expression in human vaginal mucosal epithelial cells. These results imply that AQP3 regulated by ATRA could play an important role in the mechanism of vaginal lubrication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun-Suk Lee
- Department of Urology, Chonnam National University Medical School, Sexual Medicine Research Center, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Sun-Ouck Kim
- Department of Urology, Chonnam National University Medical School, Sexual Medicine Research Center, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Kyuyoun Ahn
- Department of Anatomy, Chonnam National University Medical School, Sexual Medicine Research Center, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Kwangsung Park
- Department of Urology, Chonnam National University Medical School, Sexual Medicine Research Center, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, Korea.
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Direito I, Madeira A, Brito MA, Soveral G. Aquaporin-5: from structure to function and dysfunction in cancer. Cell Mol Life Sci 2016; 73:1623-40. [PMID: 26837927 PMCID: PMC11108570 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-016-2142-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2015] [Revised: 12/29/2015] [Accepted: 01/18/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Aquaporins, a highly conserved group of membrane proteins, are involved in the bidirectional transfer of water and small solutes across cell membranes taking part in many biological functions all over the human body. In view of the wide range of cancer malignancies in which aquaporin-5 (AQP5) has been detected, an increasing interest in its implication in carcinogenesis has emerged. Recent publications suggest that this isoform may enhance cancer cell proliferation, migration and survival in a variety of malignancies, with strong evidences pointing to AQP5 as a promising drug target and as a novel biomarker for cancer aggressiveness with high translational potential for therapeutics and diagnostics. This review addresses the structural and functional features of AQP5, detailing its tissue distribution and functions in human body, its expression pattern in a variety of tumors, and highlighting the underlying mechanisms involved in carcinogenesis. Finally, the actual progress of AQP5 research, implications in cancer biology and potential for cancer detection and prognosis are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inês Direito
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003, Lisbon, Portugal
- Department of Biochemistry and Human Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ana Madeira
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003, Lisbon, Portugal
- Department of Biochemistry and Human Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Maria Alexandra Brito
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003, Lisbon, Portugal
- Department of Biochemistry and Human Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Graça Soveral
- Research Institute for Medicines (iMed.ULisboa), Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, 1649-003, Lisbon, Portugal.
- Department of Biochemistry and Human Biology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisbon, Portugal.
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18
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Vukićević T, Schulz M, Faust D, Klussmann E. The Trafficking of the Water Channel Aquaporin-2 in Renal Principal Cells-a Potential Target for Pharmacological Intervention in Cardiovascular Diseases. Front Pharmacol 2016; 7:23. [PMID: 26903868 PMCID: PMC4749865 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2016.00023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2015] [Accepted: 01/25/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Arginine-vasopressin (AVP) stimulates the redistribution of water channels, aquaporin-2 (AQP2) from intracellular vesicles into the plasma membrane of renal collecting duct principal cells. By this AVP directs 10% of the water reabsorption from the 170 L of primary urine that the human kidneys produce each day. This review discusses molecular mechanisms underlying the AVP-induced redistribution of AQP2; in particular, it provides an overview over the proteins participating in the control of its localization. Defects preventing the insertion of AQP2 into the plasma membrane cause diabetes insipidus. The disease can be acquired or inherited, and is characterized by polyuria and polydipsia. Vice versa, up-regulation of the system causing a predominant localization of AQP2 in the plasma membrane leads to excessive water retention and hyponatremia as in the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH), late stage heart failure or liver cirrhosis. This article briefly summarizes the currently available pharmacotherapies for the treatment of such water balance disorders, and discusses the value of newly identified mechanisms controlling AQP2 for developing novel pharmacological strategies. Innovative concepts for the therapy of water balance disorders are required as there is a medical need due to the lack of causal treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tanja Vukićević
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) in the Helmholtz Association Berlin, Germany
| | - Maike Schulz
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) in the Helmholtz Association Berlin, Germany
| | - Dörte Faust
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) in the Helmholtz Association Berlin, Germany
| | - Enno Klussmann
- Max Delbrück Center for Molecular Medicine (MDC) in the Helmholtz AssociationBerlin, Germany; German Centre for Cardiovascular ResearchBerlin, Germany
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20
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Sun Q, Huang J, Yang DL, Cao XN, Zhou WL. Activation of β-adrenergic receptors during sexual arousal facilitates vaginal lubrication by regulating vaginal epithelial Cl(-) secretion. J Sex Med 2014; 11:1936-48. [PMID: 24840080 DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Vaginal lubrication, an indicator of sexual arousal and tissue health, increases significantly during genital sexual arousal. Adrenergic alpha-receptors (AR) are an important regulator of genital physiological responses involved in mediating vascular and nonvascular smooth muscle contractility; the role of β-AR in sexual arousal, however, has not yet been investigated. AIM The goal of this study was to reveal the functional role of β-AR in modulating vaginal lubrication during sexual arousal and the mechanisms underlying the process. METHODS The effects of adrenaline on vaginal epithelial ion transport, intracellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP) content ([cAMP]i ), and vaginal lubrication were investigated using short-circuit current (ISC ) of rat vaginas incubated in vitro, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and measurement of vaginal lubrication in vivo, respectively. The expressions of β-AR in vaginal epithelium were analyzed by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, western blot, and immunofluorescence. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Changes of ISC responses; mRNA, protein expressions and localization of β-AR; [cAMP]i ; vaginal lubrication. RESULTS Serosal application of adrenaline induced an increase of ISC across rat vaginal epithelium that blocked by propranolol, a β-AR antagonist, rather than phentolamine, an α-AR antagonist. β1/2-AR were both present in rat and human vaginal epithelial cells. Removing Cl(-) or application of CFTR(inh) -172, an inhibitor of cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR), abolished adrenaline-induced ISC responses. The elevated levels of [cAMP]i induced by adrenaline were prevented by the pretreatment with propranolol. Vaginal lubrication measured in vivo showed that adrenaline or pelvic nerve stimulation caused a marked increase in vaginal lubrication, whereas pretreatment with propranolol or CFTR(inh) -172 reduced the effect. CONCLUSIONS Activation of epithelial β-AR facilitates vaginal lubrication during sexual arousal by stimulating vaginal epithelial Cl(-) secretion in a cAMP-dependent pathway. Thus, vaginal epithelial β-AR might be another regulator of vaginal sexual arousal responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing Sun
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China
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21
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Pei L, Yang G, Jiang J, Jiang R, Deng Q, Chen B, Gan X. Expression of aquaporins in prostate and seminal vesicles of diabetic rats. J Sex Med 2013; 10:2975-85. [PMID: 23981690 DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Aquaporins (AQPs) are membrane proteins that facilitate the movement of water and many small solutes across biological membranes. Seminal fluid is primarily produced by prostate and seminal vesicles, and its production may potentially be mediated by many mechanisms related to transudation of fluid. Epidemiological data suggest that semen volume in diabetic men is significantly less than in nondiabetic men. AIM To investigate the change in volume of secretions of the prostate and seminal vesicles in diabetic rats and its association with the expression of AQPs 1-4. METHODS Twenty male Sprague Dawley rats were randomly divided among 4- and 6-week diabetic groups and 4- and 6-week control groups. Prostate and seminal vesicle secretions were collected and measured, and levels of expression of AQPs 1-4 were determined by immunohistochemical study and Western blot. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The levels of expression of AQPs 1-4 were determined in the prostate and seminal vesicles of diabetic rats by Western blot and immunohistochemical study. RESULTS Plasma glucose was significantly higher in diabetic model groups than in controls (P < 0.05). The weights of secretions of the prostate and seminal vesicles were significantly lower in diabetic model groups (P < 0.05). The levels of expression of AQPs 1 and 4 in seminal vesicles were significantly lower in diabetic model groups (P < 0.05). There was no difference in the level of expression of AQP3 in seminal vesicles among the groups. The levels of expression of AQPs 1, 3, and 4 in prostate were significantly lower in diabetic model groups (P < 0.05). AQP2 was not detectable in the prostate or seminal vesicles of any of the groups. CONCLUSIONS Decreased weight of prostate secretions in diabetic rats may be partly due to decreased levels of AQPs 1, 3, and 4 in prostatic tissue. Decreased weight of seminal vesicle secretions in diabetic rats may be partly due to decreased levels of AQP1 and AQP4 in seminal vesicles. There is no relationship between the expression of AQPs 1-4 and the duration of disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijun Pei
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Affiliated Hospital, Luzhou Medical College, Luzhou, China
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Saadoun S, Waters P, Leite MI, Bennett JL, Vincent A, Papadopoulos MC. Neuromyelitis optica IgG causes placental inflammation and fetal death. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2013; 191:2999-3005. [PMID: 23935196 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1301483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Neuromyelitis optica (NMO) is an inflammatory demyelinating disease of the CNS and affects women of childbearing age. Most patients with NMO have circulating Abs, termed NMO-IgG, against the astrocytic water channel protein aquaporin-4. In the CNS, NMO-IgG causes complement-mediated astrocyte damage, inflammatory cell infiltration, and myelin loss. In this study, we show that aquaporin-4 is expressed in the syncytiotrophoblast of human and mouse placenta. Placental aquaporin-4 expression is high during mid-gestation and progressively decreases with advancing pregnancy. Intraperitoneally injected NMO-IgG binds mouse placental aquaporin-4, activates coinjected human complement, and causes inflammatory cell infiltration into the placenta and placental necrosis. There was no damage to maternal organs that express aquaporin-4, including the brain, spinal cord, kidneys, and skeletal muscle. In control experiments, no placentitis was found in mice injected with NMO-IgG without complement, non-NMO-IgG with human complement, or in aquaporin-4 null mice injected with NMO-IgG and human complement. The infiltrating cells were primarily neutrophils with a few scattered eosinophils and macrophages. NMO-IgG and human complement-induced placentitis caused fetal death, but some fetuses were born normal when lower amounts of NMO-IgG and human complement were injected. Sivelestat, a neutrophil elastase inhibitor, and aquaporumab, a nonpathogenic IgG that competes with NMO-IgG for aquaporin-4 binding, significantly reduced NMO-IgG and human complement induced placentitis and fetal death. Our data suggest that NMO-IgG can cause miscarriage, thus challenging the concept that NMO affects only the CNS. These findings have implications for the management of NMO during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samira Saadoun
- Academic Neurosurgery Unit, St. George's, University of London, London SW17 0RE, United Kingdom
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Pei L, Jiang J, Jiang R, Ouyang F, Yang H, Cheng Y, Fan Z. Expression of aquaporin proteins in vagina of diabetes mellitus rats. J Sex Med 2012; 10:342-9. [PMID: 23110393 DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2012.02989.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Aquaporins (AQPs) are membrane proteins that facilitate water movement across biological membranes. Vaginal lubrication may be mediated by blood flow and other potential mechanisms related to transudation of fluid. The most common female sexual dysfunction in diabetes is inadequate vaginal lubrication. AIM To investigate the expression of AQP1-3 in vaginal tissue of diabetes mellitus rats. METHODS Female Sprague-Dawley rats (N = 20) were randomly divided into group A (12-week-old nondiabetic control, N = 5), group B (16-week-old nondiabetes control, N = 5), group C (12-week-old diabetes mellitus rats, N = 5), and group D (16-week-old diabetes mellitus rats, N = 5). Vaginal fluid was measured by fluid weight absorbed by cotton swabs after pelvic nerve electrostimulation and anterior vaginal tissue was dissected for determining the expression of AQP1-3 by immunohistochemical study and Western blot. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The expression of AQP1-3 was determined in the vagina of diabetes mellitus rats by Western blot. RESULTS There are no significant differences in serum estradiol concentrations of rats among these groups (P > 0.05). Vaginal fluid was significantly lower in group C (2.7 ± 0.67 mg) and group D (2.5 ± 1.03 mg) than in group A (5.74 ± 1.23 mg) and group B (5.5 ± 1.08 mg) (P < 0.05), respectively. The protein expressions of AQP1-3 were significantly lower in group C (43.40 ± 4.83, 60.60 ± 12.80, and 59.60 ± 6.95) and group D (20.81 ± 2.86, 47.80 ± 11.43, and 54.20 ± 5.26) than in group A (116.62 ± 3.21, 110.81 ± 8.044, and 108.80 ± 4.97) and group B (122.12 ± 14.54, 111.21 ± 15.07, and 106.40 ± 4.16) (P < 0.05), respectively. CONCLUSIONS Decreased vaginal fluid in diabetes mellitus rats after electrostimulation may be partly due to estrogen-independent decreases of AQP1-3 in vaginal tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lijun Pei
- Department of Cardiovascular Disease, Affiliated Hospital, Luzhou Medical College, Luzhou, China
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Functions of water channels in male and female reproductive systems. Mol Aspects Med 2012; 33:676-90. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2012.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2011] [Revised: 01/31/2012] [Accepted: 02/06/2012] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Lee HS, Li Z, Kim SO, Ahn K, Kim NN, Park K. Effect of Hyperglycemia on Expression of Aquaporins in the Rat Vagina. Urology 2012; 80:737.e7-12. [DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2012.03.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2012] [Revised: 03/07/2012] [Accepted: 03/20/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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