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Mikkelsen TF, Vera-Rodriguez M, Greggains G, Fedorcsák P, Hald K. Effect of endometrial biopsy method on ribonucleic acid quality and gene expression analysis in patients with leiomyoma. F S Rep 2024; 5:72-79. [PMID: 38524201 PMCID: PMC10958711 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfre.2023.11.006] [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: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective To compare ribonucleic acid (RNA) quantity and purity in tissue collected with different endometrial sampling methods to establish the optimal tool for use in endometrial gene expression studies. Design Observational study. Setting University hospital. Patients Fourteen patients with submucosal leiomyomas. Interventions Unguided biopsies were obtained using a low-pressure suction device before hysteroscopy from 14 patients with submucosal leiomyomas followed by guided biopsy with a resectoscope loop. Fifty-seven samples were collected: 25 obtained using a suction device and 32 with a loop. Main Outcome Measures Total biopsy weight, RNA purity, and RNA yield for each collection method. After complementary deoxyribonucleic acid synthesis, HOXA10 expression was measured by quantitative polymerase chain reaction in the endometrium overlying and remote from the leiomyoma, as similar expression throughout the cavity was a prerequisite for the use of unguided biopsy method. Results The median weight of the samples was significantly larger when obtained with the low-pressure suction device than with the resectoscope loop (153 vs. 20 mg). The RNA yield was similar (suction curette, 1,625 ng/mg; resectoscope loop, 1,779 ng/mg). The A260-to-A280 ratio was satisfactory for 94.7 % of the samples, with no difference between the groups. The endometrial expression of HOXA10 was similar in areas overlying the leiomyoma compared with that in remote endometrial sites (2-ΔCt = 0.0224 vs. 0.0225). Conclusions Low-pressure endometrial suction devices provide tissue samples with acceptable RNA purity and quantity for gene expression studies. The expression of HOXA10 did not differ between endometrial sampling sites even in the presence of leiomyomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thea Falkenberg Mikkelsen
- Department of Gynecology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Maria Vera-Rodriguez
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Microbiology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Gareth Greggains
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Microbiology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Péter Fedorcsák
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kirsten Hald
- Department of Gynecology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
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2
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Don EE, Mijatovic V, Huirne JAF. Infertility in patients with uterine fibroids: a debate about the hypothetical mechanisms. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:2045-2054. [PMID: 37771247 PMCID: PMC10628498 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibroids are benign tumours of the myometrium and are the most common gynaecologic abnormality. Although most fibroids are asymptomatic, they can cause symptoms like heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, sexual dysfunction, pressure complaints, and infertility. The association between fibroids and infertility has been debated for decades. It is generally acknowledged that the closer the fibroid is to the uterine cavity and the endometrium lining, the more unfavourable effect it might have on fertility, reducing the odds for successful implantation and gestation. Based on the limited available literature, we propose and discuss seven hypotheses on the underlying mechanism by which fibroids may reduce fertility. (i) Fibroids can cause sexual dysfunction, as fibroids can cause dyspareunia, pelvic pain, and prolonged and heavy menstrual bleeding, which could interfere with sexual arousal and as a consequence the frequency of intercourse, resulting in a reduced probability of conception. (ii) Mechanical compression by fibroids on theinterstitial part of the fallopian tubes or deformation of uterine cavity could disturb oocyte and sperm transport. (iii) Fibroids can disturb peristalsis of the junctional zone in the myometrium, which could negatively influence oocyte and sperm transport as well as implantation. In addition, fibroids could induce a detrimental environment for implantation in other ways, by: (iv) changing the vagino-uterine microbiome; (v) disturbing the levels of inflammation and autophagy; (vi) inducing molecular changes in the endometrium; and (vii) inducing aberrant angiogenesis and altering the endometrial blood supply. After the discussion of these hypotheses, the implication of the influence of fibroids on early pregnancy loss is discussed. Surgical fibroid treatment is not tailored nor focussed on the pathophysiology of the fibroid; consequently it may be accompanied by recurrence of fibroids and risks of complications. Unravelling the pathogenic mechanisms about how fibroids influence fertility is essential to evolve classic surgical fibroid treatment. Instead of treatment of fibroid-related symptoms, the research should supports development of fibroid-targeted (pharmaceutical) treatment that is compatible with an active wish to become pregnant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma E Don
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Velja Mijatovic
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Judith A F Huirne
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Dokuzeylül Güngör N, Önal M, Madenli AA, Ağar M. Surgical removal of FIGO type 0 and 1 fibroids ameliorates the expression of endometrial proinflammatory transcription factors and receptivity modulators. Fertil Steril 2023; 119:504-513. [PMID: 36473610 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.11.021] [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: 05/29/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 11/29/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To reveal whether hysteroscopic removal of the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) types 0 and 1 fibroids makes any changes in the expression of homeobox genes (HOXA10, HOXA11), leukemia inhibitory factor, and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kB). DESIGN A case-control study. SETTING University-based in vitro fertilisation center. PATIENT(S) This study consisted of a total of 29 participants, 21 with FIGO types 0 and 1 fibroids and 8 with normal uterine cavity without fibroids. INTERVENTION(S) Patients in FIGO types 0 and 1 fibroids group underwent hysteroscopic myomectomy. The patients in the control group underwent laparoscopic tubal ligation. Endometrial cells were collected by flushing method from all participants before and 3 months after myomectomy. Real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to detect HOXA10, HOXA11, and LIF mRNA expressions in endometrial flushing samples. The relative expressions of homeobox and LIF mRNA were calculated with comparative ΔCt method. Endometrial NF-kB concentration was measured quantitatively by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) To compare endometrial HOXA10, HOXA11, and LIF mRNA expressions as well as endometrial NF-kB concentration before and after myomectomy. RESULT(S) Premyomectomy NF-kB levels of type 0 (4.22 ± 1.02 ng/mL) and type 1 fibroid (6.44 ± 2.30 ng/mL) were significantly higher than the values of control group (0.54 ± 0.10 ng/mL). Surgical removal of type 0 and 1 fibroids resulted in a significant decrease in endometrial NF-kB levels (1.33 ± 0.02 ng/mL vs 1.65 ± 0.27 ng/mL, respectively). In type 0 fibroid group, after myomectomy, there was a 11.1-fold increase in HOXA10 mRNA, 4.23-fold in HOXA11 mRNA, and 7.63-fold in LIF mRNA. In the type 1 fibroid group, after myomectomy, there was a 16.3-fold increase in HOXA10 mRNA, 8.34-fold in HOXA11 mRNA, and 9.38-fold in LIF mRNA. A nonsignificant change was detected in homeobox and LIF mRNA after tubal sterilization. A negative and significant correlation was found between endometrial NF-kB and HOXA10 (r=-0.67), HOXA11 (r=-0.71) and LIF (r=-0.54). CONCLUSION(S) High proinflammatory NF-kB concentration and low homeobox and LIF mRNA expressions were detected in the presence of type 0 or 1 fibroids that returned to normal values after hysteroscopic myomectomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nur Dokuzeylül Güngör
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bahcesehir University Goztepe Medicalpark Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Murat Önal
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Gynolife Hospital, Nicosia, Cyprus
| | - Asena Ayar Madenli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Liv Hospital Vadistanbul, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Mehmet Ağar
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Private Office, Sanliurfa, Turkey
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Celik O, Celik N, Gungor ND, Celik S, Arslan L, Morciano A, Tinelli A. Biomechanical Forces Determine Fibroid Stem Cell Transformation and the Receptivity Status of the Endometrium: A Critical Appraisal. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232214201. [PMID: 36430682 PMCID: PMC9692870 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232214201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2022] [Revised: 11/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Myometrium cells are an important reproductive niche in which cyclic mechanical forces of a pico-newton range are produced continuously at millisecond and second intervals. Overproduction and/or underproduction of micro-forces, due to point or epigenetic mutation, aberrant methylation, and abnormal response to hypoxia, may lead to the transformation of fibroid stem cells into fibroid-initiating stem cells. Fibroids are tumors with a high modulus of stiffness disturbing the critical homeostasis of the myometrium and they may cause unfavorable and strong mechanical forces. Micro-mechanical forces and soluble-chemical signals play a critical role in transcriptional and translational processes' maintenance, by regulating communication between the cell nucleus and its organelles. Signals coming from the external environment can stimulate cells in the format of both soluble biochemical signals and mechanical ones. The shape of the cell and the plasma membrane have a significant character in sensing electro-chemical signals, through specialized receptors and generating responses, accordingly. In order for mechanical signals to be perceived by the cell, they must be converted into biological stimuli, through a process called mechanotransduction. Transmission of fibroid-derived mechanical signals to the endometrium and their effects on receptivity modulators are mediated through a pathway known as solid-state signaling. It is not sufficiently clear which type of receptors and mechanical signals impair endometrial receptivity. However, it is known that biomechanical signals reaching the endometrium affect epithelial sodium channels, lysophosphatidic acid receptors or Rho GTPases, leading to conformational changes in endometrial proteins. Translational changes in receptivity modulators may disrupt the selectivity and receptivity functions of the endometrium, resulting in failed implantation or early pregnancy loss. By hypermethylation of the receptivity genes, micro-forces can also negatively affect decidualization and implantation. The purpose of this narrative review is to summarize the state of the art of the biomechanical forces which can determine fibroid stem cell transformation and, thus, affect the receptivity status of the endometrium with regard to fertilization and pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Onder Celik
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Private Clinic, Usak 64000, Turkey
| | - Nilufer Celik
- Department of Biochemistry, Behcet Uz Children’s Hospital, Izmir 35210, Turkey
| | - Nur Dokuzeylul Gungor
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Bahcesehir University, Istanbul 34732, Turkey
| | - Sudenaz Celik
- Medical Faculty, Sofia University “St. Kliment Ohridski”, 1407 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Liya Arslan
- Medical Faculty, Medical University of Sofia, 1431 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Andrea Morciano
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, “Cardinal Panico” General Hospital, 73020 Lecce, Italy
| | - Andrea Tinelli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and CERICSAL (Centro di RIcerca Clinica SALentino), “Veris Delli Ponti Hospital”, 73020 Lecce, Italy
- Correspondence:
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5
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Roșu GA, Ionescu CA, Călin FD, Dimitriu M, Pleș L, Matei A, Navolan DB. Prognostic value of the location of submucosal uterine leiomyomas in infertility. Exp Ther Med 2021; 22:1482. [PMID: 34765023 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2021.10917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Submucosal fibroid location and size are predictive factors of impaired fertility. Submucosal fibroids cause infertility through several mechanisms including distortion of the endometrial cavity, increased uterine contractility, local inflammation and remodeling of the endometrial blood supply. This is a monocentric, retrospective, cross-sectional study, conducted in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of 'Sf. Pantelimon' Clinical Emergency Hospital, analyzing patients from a 5-year period (January 2015-December 2019). In the present study, the relationship between different characteristics of the submucosal fibroids (among others, location and dimensions) and fertility (birth rates, early pregnancy loss rates) were investigated. This study identified that submucosal and intramural fibroids are risk factors for reduced birth rate compared with subserosal fibroids (P=0.02, RR=2.58, 95% CI 1.03-6.47; P=0.005, RR=1.18, 95% CI 1.02-1.35, respectively). In addition, G2 leiomyomas are risk factors for low birth rate compared with G0 and G1 fibroids (P=0.01, RR=1.95, 95% CI 1.05-3.60). Moreover, the presence of a subserosal fibroid was associated with an increased early pregnancy loss rate (P=0.01, RR=2.14, 95% CI 1.05-4.35). In conclusion, the location and degree of uterine cavity distortion are important factors that alter the normal development of a pregnancy and the birth rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- George-Alexandru Roșu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 'Sf. Pantelimon' Clinical Emergency Hospital, 021659 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Crîngu Antoniu Ionescu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 'Sf. Pantelimon' Clinical Emergency Hospital, 021659 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Florin Daniel Călin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 'Sf. Pantelimon' Clinical Emergency Hospital, 021659 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Mihai Dimitriu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 'Sf. Pantelimon' Clinical Emergency Hospital, 021659 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Liana Pleș
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Obstetrics, 'Bucur' Maternity, 'Sf. Ioan' Clinical Emergency Hospital, 040294 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Alexandra Matei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 'Carol Davila' University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 'Sf. Pantelimon' Clinical Emergency Hospital, 021659 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Dan-Bogdan Navolan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 'Victor Babes' University of Medicine and Pharmacy of Timisoara, 300041 Timisoara, Romania.,Department of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, 'Dr. Dumitru Popescu' Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, 300172 Timisora, Romania
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6
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Moliner B, Sellers F, Bernabeu A, Fuentes A, Castillo JC, Llacer J, Bernabeu R. The Effect of Twisted Uterus Caused by Endometriosis or Myomatosis on Reproductive Treatment Outcomes. J Family Reprod Health 2021; 15:106-111. [PMID: 34721599 PMCID: PMC8520668 DOI: 10.18502/jfrh.v15i2.6451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Twisted uterus is detected when the body of the uterus is rotated from the cervical canal. This anomaly may be due to different causes, such as uterine fibroids, endometriosis or the presence of both. The study has aimed to compare the effect of the twisted uterus cause in terms of reproductive treatment outcomes. Materials and methods: It consisted of a retrospective study of twisted uterus cases with repeated implantation failure (more than three embryo transfers or four blastocysts transferred unsuccessfully) in our ultrasound department. The twisted uterus was defined when the vaginal probe needed to be rotated to assess the endometrial line thoroughly or when the coronal view was seen by 2D scan. From 2017 to 2020, 879 gynecological ultrasounds were performed. For statistical analysis, we carried out a logistical regression analysis adjusted by confounding factors. Results: From 145 patients included only 92 patients underwent reproductive treatments. With the known cause of uterine torsion. 56 patients with endometriosis, 18 with uterine myoma and the remaining 18 suffered from both. After assisted reproductive treatment, the endometriosis group showed the highest clinical pregnancy rate (53.57%) compared to myoma (22.22%) and endometriosis and myoma (38.89%) groups. Conclusion: Uterine myoma capable of causing uterine torsion may affect embryo implantation more than endometriosis. Prospective randomized studies with a larger number of patients would be needed to confirm these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belen Moliner
- Reproductive Medicine Department, Bernabeu Institute, Alicante, Spain
| | - Francisco Sellers
- Reproductive Medicine Department, Bernabeu Institute, Alicante, Spain
| | - Andrea Bernabeu
- Reproductive Medicine Department, Bernabeu Institute, Alicante, Spain
| | - Ana Fuentes
- Reproductive Medicine Department, Bernabeu Institute, Alicante, Spain
| | | | - Joaquin Llacer
- Reproductive Medicine Department, Bernabeu Institute, Alicante, Spain
| | - Rafael Bernabeu
- Reproductive Medicine Department, Bernabeu Institute, Alicante, Spain
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7
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Recent Advances and Current Perspectives on Endometrial Receptivity. CURRENT OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY REPORTS 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s13669-021-00313-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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8
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Navarro A, Bariani MV, Yang Q, Al-Hendy A. Understanding the Impact of Uterine Fibroids on Human Endometrium Function. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:633180. [PMID: 34113609 PMCID: PMC8186666 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.633180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine fibroids (leiomyomas) are the most common benign gynecological tumors in women of reproductive age worldwide. They cause heavy menstrual bleeding, usually leading to severe anemia, pelvic pain/pressure, infertility, and other debilitating morbidities. Fibroids are believed to be monoclonal tumors arising from the myometrium, and recent studies have demonstrated that fibroids actively influence the endometrium globally. Studies suggest a direct relationship between the number of fibroids removed and fertility problems. In this review, our objective was to provide a complete overview of the origin of uterine fibroids and the molecular pathways and processes implicated in their development and growth, which can directly affect the function of a healthy endometrium. One of the most common characteristics of fibroids is the excessive production of extracellular matrix (ECM) components, which contributes to the stiffness and expansion of fibroids. ECM may serve as a reservoir of profibrotic growth factors such as the transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) and a modulator of their availability and actions. Fibroids also elicit mechanotransduction changes that result in decreased uterine wall contractility and increased myometrium rigidity, which affect normal biological uterine functions such as menstrual bleeding, receptivity, and implantation. Changes in the microRNA (miRNA) expression in fibroids and myometrial cells appear to modulate the TGF-β pathways and the expression of regulators of ECM production. Taken together, these findings demonstrate an interaction among the ECM components, TGF-β family signaling, miRNAs, and the endometrial vascular system. Targeting these components will be fundamental to developing novel pharmacotherapies that not only treat uterine fibroids but also restore normal endometrial function.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Ayman Al-Hendy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, United States
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9
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DE Angelis MC, DI Spiezio Sardo A, Carugno J, Manzi A, Sorrentino F, Nappi L. Fertility outcomes after hysteroscopic removal of intrauterine leiomyomas and polyps. Minerva Obstet Gynecol 2021; 74:3-11. [PMID: 33876900 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-606x.21.04739-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Thanks to the progress of science, it is now understood that a successful implantation not only depends on the quality of the embryo, but also on having a receptive endometrium. During the years, several authors have reviewed the important role of the uterine factor, ranging from the congenital anomalies, such as uterine septa and subsepta, and acquired conditions such as endometrial polyps and submucous myomas. Currently, hysteroscopy has proved to be a powerful and accurate tool for visualizing the uterine cavity and treating intrauterine pathologies. EVIDENCE ACQUISITION This review of the literature aims to report the current available data on the effects of the two most common endouterine pathologies (i.e. endometrial polyps and submucous myomas) and the impact of hysteroscopic removal on fertility outcomes. EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS To date, the low number of randomized controlled trials available does not yet make it possible to give a definitive answer on what are the reproductive outcomes following treatment of endometrial polyps and leiomyomas. Nevertheless, existing evidence points to a benefit of removal of this two pathologies in infertile women, mostly when they have a history of recurrent pregnancy loss. CONCLUSIONS Further studies are needed to demonstrate that surgical treatments of endometrial polyps and myomas could improve not only the morphology but also the function of the uterine cavity before undergoing any assisted fertility treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jose Carugno
- Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences Department, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Alfonso Manzi
- Department of Neurologic, Reproductive, and Odontostomatologic Sciences, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Felice Sorrentino
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Luigi Nappi
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
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10
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Critchley HOD, Babayev E, Bulun SE, Clark S, Garcia-Grau I, Gregersen PK, Kilcoyne A, Kim JYJ, Lavender M, Marsh EE, Matteson KA, Maybin JA, Metz CN, Moreno I, Silk K, Sommer M, Simon C, Tariyal R, Taylor HS, Wagner GP, Griffith LG. Menstruation: science and society. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2020; 223:624-664. [PMID: 32707266 PMCID: PMC7661839 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2020.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Revised: 05/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Women's health concerns are generally underrepresented in basic and translational research, but reproductive health in particular has been hampered by a lack of understanding of basic uterine and menstrual physiology. Menstrual health is an integral part of overall health because between menarche and menopause, most women menstruate. Yet for tens of millions of women around the world, menstruation regularly and often catastrophically disrupts their physical, mental, and social well-being. Enhancing our understanding of the underlying phenomena involved in menstruation, abnormal uterine bleeding, and other menstruation-related disorders will move us closer to the goal of personalized care. Furthermore, a deeper mechanistic understanding of menstruation-a fast, scarless healing process in healthy individuals-will likely yield insights into a myriad of other diseases involving regulation of vascular function locally and systemically. We also recognize that many women now delay pregnancy and that there is an increasing desire for fertility and uterine preservation. In September 2018, the Gynecologic Health and Disease Branch of the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development convened a 2-day meeting, "Menstruation: Science and Society" with an aim to "identify gaps and opportunities in menstruation science and to raise awareness of the need for more research in this field." Experts in fields ranging from the evolutionary role of menstruation to basic endometrial biology (including omic analysis of the endometrium, stem cells and tissue engineering of the endometrium, endometrial microbiome, and abnormal uterine bleeding and fibroids) and translational medicine (imaging and sampling modalities, patient-focused analysis of menstrual disorders including abnormal uterine bleeding, smart technologies or applications and mobile health platforms) to societal challenges in health literacy and dissemination frameworks across different economic and cultural landscapes shared current state-of-the-art and future vision, incorporating the patient voice at the launch of the meeting. Here, we provide an enhanced meeting report with extensive up-to-date (as of submission) context, capturing the spectrum from how the basic processes of menstruation commence in response to progesterone withdrawal, through the role of tissue-resident and circulating stem and progenitor cells in monthly regeneration-and current gaps in knowledge on how dysregulation leads to abnormal uterine bleeding and other menstruation-related disorders such as adenomyosis, endometriosis, and fibroids-to the clinical challenges in diagnostics, treatment, and patient and societal education. We conclude with an overview of how the global agenda concerning menstruation, and specifically menstrual health and hygiene, are gaining momentum, ranging from increasing investment in addressing menstruation-related barriers facing girls in schools in low- to middle-income countries to the more recent "menstrual equity" and "period poverty" movements spreading across high-income countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hilary O D Critchley
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom.
| | - Elnur Babayev
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
| | - Serdar E Bulun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL
| | | | - Iolanda Garcia-Grau
- Igenomix Foundation-Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital Clínico, INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain; Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Peter K Gregersen
- The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY
| | | | | | | | - Erica E Marsh
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI
| | - Kristen A Matteson
- Division of Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women and Infants Hospital, Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, Providence, RI
| | - Jacqueline A Maybin
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Christine N Metz
- The Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY
| | - Inmaculada Moreno
- Igenomix Foundation-Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital Clínico, INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain
| | - Kami Silk
- Department of Communication, University of Delaware, Newark, DE
| | - Marni Sommer
- Department of Sociomedical Sciences, Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, NY
| | - Carlos Simon
- Igenomix Foundation-Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Hospital Clínico, INCLIVA, Valencia, Spain; Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain; Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard University, Boston, MA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX
| | | | - Hugh S Taylor
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT
| | - Günter P Wagner
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Systems Biology Institute, Yale University, New Haven, CT; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI
| | - Linda G Griffith
- Center for Gynepathology Research, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA
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Impaired pathogen-induced autophagy and increased IL-1β and TNFα release in response to pathogenic triggers in secretory phase endometrial stromal cells of endometriosis patients. Reprod Biomed Online 2020; 41:767-781. [PMID: 32978075 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2020.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 05/25/2020] [Accepted: 06/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION It is not clear whether innate immunity along with autophagy is altered in endometrial cells of patients with endometriosis. DESIGN This study evaluated the effects of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (poly I:C) stimulation on autophagy induction, pro-IL-1β expression, and secretion of interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNFα) in endometrial epithelial and/or stromal cells of patients with endometriosis (EE-endo, ES-endo, respectively), those of patients with hydrosalpinx (EE-hydro, ES-hydro, respectively) and those of healthy fertile women (EE-healthy, ES-healthy, respectively), with and without inhibition of autophagy by autophagy-related (ATG)13 gene small interfering RNA (siRNA). RESULTS Stimulation with either LPS or poly I:C triggered autophagy in EE/ES-healthy, whereas no significant induction was observed in either EE/ES-endo or EE/ES-hydro. In EE- and/or ES-healthy, IL-1β and/or TNFα secretion after stimulation with LPS or poly I:C was significantly higher in cells with ATG13 knockdown compared with those with siRNA control (P < 0.03), whereas no significant difference was observed in either EE/ES-endo or EE/ES-hydro. In the secretory phase ES-endo without autophagy inhibition, IL-1β and TNFα secretion were significantly higher compared with those of ES-healthy after stimulation with either LPS or poly I:C for 4 h (P < 0.001) and for 24 h (P < 0.01). CONCLUSION Pathogen-induced autophagy was impaired in EE/ES-endo. Increased IL-1β and TNFα release in response to pathogenic triggers in the secretory phase ES-endo may result in the development of an inflammatory uterine microenvironment detrimental to successful embryo implantation.
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Donnez J, Dolmans MM. Hormone therapy for intramural myoma-related infertility from ulipristal acetate to GnRH antagonist: a review. Reprod Biomed Online 2020; 41:431-442. [PMID: 32703756 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2020.05.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Revised: 05/15/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Uterine fibroids may cause infertility, depending on their size and location according to the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics classification. In this review, infertility relating to intramural myomas is evaluated. The mechanisms linking uterine fibroids and infertility are numerous: uterine cavity distortion (fibroids types 0, 1, 2, 2-5); impaired endometrial and myometrial blood supply; increased uterine contractility; hormonal, paracrine and molecular changes; impaired endometrial receptivity in gene expression (decrease in homeobox 10 [HOXA-10] expression); and thicker capsule. The negative effect of intramural myoma is related to myoma size and proximity of the uterine cavity. Therefore, a medical approach could be proposed to reduce the size of the myoma and push it back deep into the myometrium. The relevant medical treatments, including selective progesterone receptor modulator and gonadotrophin releasing hormone antagonist are reviewed. Even if the mystery surrounding intramural myomas remains, the development of new algorithms for intramural myoma-related infertility, and evaluation of the place of medical treatment as a primary approach are urgently needed. An algorithm, taking into account the mechanisms linking uterine fibroids and infertility, is proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacques Donnez
- Catholic University of Louvain and Société de Recherche pour l'Infertilité (SRI) 143 Avenue Grandchamp, Brussels B-1150, Belgium.
| | - Marie-Madeleine Dolmans
- Gynecology Department, Cliniques Universitaires St-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate 10, 1200 Brussels, Belgium: Pôle de Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Mounier 52, bte B1.52.02, Brussels 1200, Belgium
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13
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Pier B, Crellin C, Katre A, Conner MG, Novak L, Young SL, Arend R. Large, Non-Cavity Distorting Intramural Leiomyomas Decrease Leukemia Inhibitory Factor in the Secretory Phase Endometrium. Reprod Sci 2020; 27:569-574. [PMID: 32046421 PMCID: PMC7539805 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-019-00056-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Accepted: 06/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Despite mounting evidence that large intramural leiomyomas decrease fecundity during in vitro fertilization cycles, few studies have demonstrated a mechanism for this impact. We hypothesize that large intramural leiomyomas (IM) decrease the expression of endometrial implantation factors during the window of implantation. We prospectively recruited sub-fertile patients with IM 3 cm or greater in size planning myomectomy and performed endometrial biopsies the day of planned myomectomy (n = 9). Preoperative screening demonstrated no intercavitary lesions. Control endometrial samples were obtained from young, normally menstruating women free of uterine leiomyomas (n = 8). Endometrial samples were obtained in the mid-secretory phase (average cycle day for control patients and intramural leiomyoma patients were 24.5 and 21.3, respectively). Expression of implantation markers HOXA10, leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), ER-α, and PR was compared using quantitative immunohistochemistry. Standard descriptive statistics were used to compare H-scores between the cohorts. Patients with intramural leiomyomas were found to have decreased LIF compared to controls (p value < 0.001). Expressions of HOXA10 and PR were no different between cohorts; however, ER-α showed a trend toward increased expression in the fibroid cohort (p value 0.07). LIF is downregulated in the endometrium of patients with large IM. This study is among the first to show decreased LIF expression in patients with uterine leiomyomas. We hypothesize that this difference from previously published work is due to sampling the endometrium at the height of LIF expression. Further work is needed to show if LIF downregulation is corrected with leiomyoma resection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruce Pier
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Tripler Army Medical Center, Jarrett White Road, Honolulu, Hawaii 96859 USA
| | - Christopher Crellin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Tripler Army Medical Center, Jarrett White Road, Honolulu, Hawaii 96859 USA
| | - Ashwini Katre
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, USA
| | - Michael G. Conner
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, USA
| | - Lea Novak
- Department of Pathology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, USA
| | - Steven L Young
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA
| | - Rebecca Arend
- Department of Cell, Developmental and Integrative Biology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, USA
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14
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Munro MG. Uterine polyps, adenomyosis, leiomyomas, and endometrial receptivity. Fertil Steril 2019; 111:629-640. [PMID: 30929720 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2019.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 107] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Endometrial polyps, adenomyosis, and leiomyomas are commonly encountered abnormalities frequently found in both fertile women and those with infertility. The clinician is frequently challenged to determine which of these entities, when found, is likely to impair fertility, and which are "innocent bystanders" unrelated to the problem at hand. Although removing an endometrial polyp may be seen as a relatively benign and safe intervention, myomectomy, and in particular adenomyomectomy, can be substantive surgical procedures, associated with their own potential for disrupting fertility. One of the mechanisms thought to be involved when these entities are contributing to infertility is an adverse impact on endometrial receptivity. Indeed polyps, adenomyosis, and leiomyomas have all been associated with an increased likelihood of abnormal endometrial molecular expressions thought to impair implantation and early embryo development. This review is designed to examine the relationship of these common entities to endometrial receptivity and to identify evidence gaps that should be considered when strategizing research initiatives. It is apparent that we have the tools necessary to fill these gaps, but it will be necessary to approach the issue in a strategic and coordinated fashion. It is likely that we will have to recognize the limitations of imaging alone and look to the evidence-based addition of molecular analysis to provide the individualized phenotyping of disease necessary for patient-specific treatment decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Malcolm G Munro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaiser-Permanente, Los Angeles Medical Center, Los Angeles, California.
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15
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Rikken J, Leeuwis-Fedorovich NE, Letteboer S, Emanuel MH, Limpens J, van der Veen F, Goddijn M, van Wely M. The pathophysiology of the septate uterus: a systematic review. BJOG 2019; 126:1192-1199. [PMID: 31004459 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.15798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little is known about the pathophysiology underlying the increased risk for impaired reproductive outcomes in women with a septate uterus. OBJECTIVES We explored the available evidence on the pathophysiology of the septate uterus in an attempt to find a biological basis for these effects. SEARCH STRATEGY We performed a systematic literature search in OVID MEDLINE and OVID EMBASE from inception to January 2018. SELECTION CRITERIA We selected studies that investigated the pathophysiology of the septate uterus. Case reports or reviews without original data were excluded. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two reviewers independently evaluated potentially eligible papers. MAIN RESULTS Thirty-eight studies were included for analysis. The overall findings were that the intrauterine septum consists of endometrium and myometrium similar to the uterine wall. All five imaging studies that evaluated vascularity found that most of the intrauterine septa were vascularised. Histological studies found that the intrauterine septum consisted of myometrium and was covered by endometrium (n = 9). The endometrium covering the septum showed differences in histological composition in four studies and in gene expression in three studies compared with the normal uterine wall. CONCLUSIONS We found no clear biological basis for the impaired reproductive outcomes in women with a septate uterus. Either the gross anatomy of the septum itself or differences in histology or gene expression of the septum could account for the increased risk of reproductive waste observed after implantation in the septum. TWEETABLE ABSTRACT In women with a septate uterus differences in histology or gene expression could account for impaired reproductive outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jfw Rikken
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - S Letteboer
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - M H Emanuel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - J Limpens
- Medical Library, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - F van der Veen
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - M Goddijn
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - M van Wely
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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16
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Submucous Fibroids, Fertility, and Possible Correlation to Pseudocapsule Thickness in Reproductive Surgery. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2018; 2018:2804830. [PMID: 30250847 PMCID: PMC6140098 DOI: 10.1155/2018/2804830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2017] [Accepted: 06/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives Fibroids are related to infertility. Fibroid pseudocapsule is a neurovascular bundle surrounding leiomyomas rich of neurofibers involved in myometrial biology. Authors evaluated, by a case-control study, the fibroid pseudocapsule (FP) thickness by ultrasound (US) and the histological measurements, according to uterine location of fibroids. Methods 137 consecutive patients undergoing hysterectomy for uterine myomas were enrolled and 200 myomas were evaluated. Before surgery, patients underwent an ultrasound (US) investigation to evaluate the number, the size, and the location of fibroids. After surgery, myoma-pseudocapsule-myometrium specimens were measured and evaluated by a single expert pathologist. Both US and histological data were collected and statistically analyzed. Results Our results confirm the relevant difference of FP thickness, particularly represented under the endometrium for submucous LMs. FPs near the endometrial cavity were considerably thicker than those of both intramural fibroids and subserous fibroids measured by US (P=0.0001) and histology (P=0.0001). A clear cut-off measurement at 2 mm (P=0.0001) was found between endometrial FPs and all other FPs for either US or histology measurements. Conclusion The thickness of FP is considerably higher near the endometrial cavity when compared to those of both intramural and subserous LMs, suggesting a potential role either in fertility or in myometrial healing.
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17
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Aghajanova L, Houshdaran S, Irwin JC, Giudice LC. Effects of noncavity-distorting fibroids on endometrial gene expression and function. Biol Reprod 2018; 97:564-576. [PMID: 29025102 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/iox107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2017] [Accepted: 08/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine fibroids are a common finding in infertility patients. Impaired implantation and decidualization have been proposed to contribute to compromised fertility. Data are limited on the endometrial transcriptome from subjects with uterine fibroids, as well as endometrial receptivity and decidualization potential of endometrial stromal fibroblasts (eSF) from women with fibroids. Our objective was to investigate the endometrial transcriptome of women with noncavity-distorting intramural fibroids and compare them to control subjects with no uterine pathology throughout the menstrual cycle. We also evaluated endometrial receptivity gene expression and basic endometrial functions such as decidualization, proliferation, and apoptosis in women with fibroid uterus. Results showed that large numbers of transcripts were significantly dysregulated throughout the menstrual cycle in fibroid subjects compared to controls. However, there were essentially no differences in the expression of receptivity markers at the tissue level, as well as decidualization markers in tissue and eSF in subjects with fibroids compared to controls. However, eSF from women with a fibroid uterus exhibited decreased proliferation potential and increased apoptosis upon decidualization. These data indicate preserved implantation and decidualization potential despite observed gene expression changes in endometrium from women with noncavity-distorting fibroids compared to controls. How this phenomenon and altered proliferation/apoptosis may contribute to impairment of endometrial function in subfertile patients warrants further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lusine Aghajanova
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, 550 16th street, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Sahar Houshdaran
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, 550 16th street, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Juan C Irwin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, 550 16th street, San Francisco, California, USA
| | - Linda C Giudice
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, 550 16th street, San Francisco, California, USA
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18
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Guo S, Li Z, Yan L, Sun Y, Feng Y. GnRH agonist improves pregnancy outcome in mice with induced adenomyosis by restoring endometrial receptivity. DRUG DESIGN DEVELOPMENT AND THERAPY 2018; 12:1621-1631. [PMID: 29922037 PMCID: PMC5995291 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s162541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Purpose Adenomyosis has a negative impact on female fertility. GnRH agonist treatment can improve pregnancy outcomes in women with adenomyosis. However, the impact of GnRH agonist upon endometrium receptivity of patients with adenomyosis remains unclear. In this study, endometrial receptivity and pregnancy outcome were investigated using a mouse model of adenomyosis. Materials and methods Adenomyosis was induced in 12 female ICR mice, neonatally treated with tamoxifen, while another six female mice (control group) received solvent only. At 75 days, the induced adenomyosis group was randomly divided into two groups: an untreated group and a group treated with GnRH agonist (n = 6 each). Sixty days later, the mice were mated and pregnancy outcomes were observed and compared among the three groups (n = 6 each). In a parallel experiment using the same treatment regimes, uterus samples were collected on day 4 of pregnancy for immunohistochemistry, gene (quantitative polymerase chain reaction) and protein expression (Western blot), and scanning electron microscopy analyses. Results We found that the average live litter size was reduced in the adenomyosis compared with control group (8 ± 0.56 versus 13 ± 0.71; P = 0.03). However, the litter size was significantly increased in the treated with GnRH agonist group compared with the untreated group (12 ± 0.35 versus 8 ± 0.56; P = 0.04). The uterine expression levels of Hoxa10, Hoxa11, Lif and integrin b3 mRNA and protein were decreased in the adenomyosis group, and were significantly increased after GnRH agonist treatment. Additionally, pinopodes were reduced in number and poorly developed in mice with induced adenomyosis. However, pinopodes were abundant and well-developed in the GnRH agonist treatment group. Conclusion Adenomyosis may have an adverse impact on endometrial receptivity and reduce pregnancy outcomes in mice. However, GnRH agonist may improve the pregnancy outcome by partially restoring endometrial receptivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Song Guo
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Zhichao Li
- Gynecology, Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics & In Vitro Fertilization Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Li Yan
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Qianfoshan Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Yijuan Sun
- Gynecology, Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics & In Vitro Fertilization Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yun Feng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
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19
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Makker A, Goel MM, Nigam D, Mahdi AA, Das V, Agarwal A, Pandey A, Gautam A. Aberrant Akt Activation During Implantation Window in Infertile Women With Intramural Uterine Fibroids. Reprod Sci 2017; 25:1243-1253. [PMID: 29113583 DOI: 10.1177/1933719117737844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
The objective of the study was to examine the expression and cellular distribution of key signaling components of the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K)/Phosphatase and Tensin Homolog Deleted on Chromosome Ten (PTEN)/Protein Kinase B (PKB/Akt) pathway during the window of implantation in infertile women with noncavity-distorting intramural uterine fibroids (n = 21) as compared to fertile controls (n = 15). Relative gene expression analysis of PIK3CA, PTEN, Akt1, and Akt2 genes in midluteal endometrial biopsies was performed by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Immunohistochemistry was used to evaluate the expression of PIK3CA, PTEN, phospho-PTEN, Akt1, Akt2, phospho-Akt1 (serine 473), phospho-Akt1 (threonine 308), and Ki67 proteins. Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate nick end-labeling assay was performed for apoptosis detection. In comparison to fertile controls, significant upregulation of Akt1 messenger RNA levels (2.16-fold; P < .05); cell-specific upregulation of the proteins phospho-PTEN ( P < .05), Akt1 ( P < .05), Akt2 ( P < .05), and p-Akt (S473; P < .001); and downregulation of PTEN ( P < .01) were observed in endometrium of infertile women with intramural fibroids. The ratio of p-PTEN/PTEN and p-Akt1 (S473)/Akt1 was also significantly higher in infertile women. Increased Ki67 labeling index in the glandular epithelium and significantly lower apoptotic index in glandular epithelium and stroma were seen in infertile women during the window of implantation. Aberrant Akt activation and the associated imbalance in endometrial proliferation and apoptosis observed in infertile women with intramural fibroids during the midsecretory phase might contribute to impaired endometrial receptivity leading to infertility in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annu Makker
- 1 Department of Pathology, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Madhu Mati Goel
- 1 Department of Pathology, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Dipti Nigam
- 1 Department of Pathology, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Abbas Ali Mahdi
- 2 Department of Biochemistry, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Vinita Das
- 3 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Anjoo Agarwal
- 3 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Amita Pandey
- 3 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King George's Medical University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Abnish Gautam
- 4 Government Degree College, Mahona, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
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20
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Ikhena DE, Bulun SE. Literature Review on the Role of Uterine Fibroids in Endometrial Function. Reprod Sci 2017; 25:635-643. [PMID: 28826369 DOI: 10.1177/1933719117725827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Uterine fibroids are benign uterine smooth muscle tumors that are present in up to 8 out of 10 women by the age of 50. Many of these women experience symptoms such as heavy and irregular menstrual bleeding, early pregnancy loss, and infertility. Traditionally believed to be inert masses, fibroids are now known to influence endometrial function at the molecular level. We present a comprehensive review of published studies on the effect of uterine fibroids on endometrial function. Our goal was to explore the current knowledge about how uterine fibroids interact with the endometrium and how these interactions influence clinical symptoms. Our review shows that submucosal fibroids produce a blunted decidualization response with decreased release of cytokines critical for implantation such as leukocyte inhibitory factor and cell adhesion molecules. Furthermore, fibroids alter the expression of genes relevant for implantation, such as bone morphogenetic protein receptor type II, glycodelin, among others. With regard to heavy menstrual bleeding, fibroids significantly alter the production of vasoconstrictors in the endometrium, leading to increased menstrual blood loss. Fibroids also increase the production of angiogenic factors such as basic fibroblast growth factor and reduce the production of coagulation factors resulting in heavy menses. Understanding the crosstalk between uterine fibroids and the endometrium will provide key insights into implantation and menstrual biology and drive the development of new and innovative therapeutic options for the management of symptoms in women with uterine fibroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah E Ikhena
- 1 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Serdar E Bulun
- 1 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
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21
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Uterine Fibroids in the Setting of Infertility: When to Treat, How to Treat? CURRENT OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY REPORTS 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/s13669-017-0192-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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22
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Joshi NR, Miyadahira EH, Afshar Y, Jeong JW, Young SL, Lessey BA, Serafini PC, Fazleabas AT. Progesterone Resistance in Endometriosis Is Modulated by the Altered Expression of MicroRNA-29c and FKBP4. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2017; 102:141-149. [PMID: 27778641 PMCID: PMC5413101 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2016-2076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2016] [Accepted: 10/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Endometriosis results in aberrant gene expression in the eutopic endometrium (EuE) and subsequent progesterone resistance. MicroRNA (miR) microarray data in a baboon model of endometriosis showed an increased expression of miR-29c. OBJECTIVES To explore the role of miR-29c in progesterone resistance in a subset of women with endometriosis. DESIGN MiR-29c expression was analyzed in the endometrium of baboons and women with or without endometriosis. The role in progesterone resistance and decidualization was analyzed by transfecting human uterine fibroblast cells with miR-29c. PATIENTS Subjects diagnosed with deep infiltrative endometriosis (DIE) by transvaginal ultrasound with bowel preparation underwent surgical excision of endometriosis. Eutopic secretory endometrium was collected pre- and postoperatively. Women with normal EuE and without DIE served as controls. RESULTS Quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction demonstrated that miR-29c expression increased, while the transcript levels of its target, FK506-binding protein 4 (FKBP4), decreased in the EuE of baboons following the induction of endometriosis. FKBP4 messenger RNA and decidual markers were statistically significantly decreased in decidualized human uterine fibroblast cells transfected with a miR-29c mimic compared with controls. Human data corroborated our baboon data and demonstrated higher expression of miR-29c in endometriosis EuE compared with normal EuE. MiR-29c was significantly decreased in endometriosis EuE postoperatively compared with preoperative tissues, and FKBP4 showed an inverse trend following radical laparoscopic resection surgery. CONCLUSIONS We demonstrate that miR-29c expression is increased in EuE of baboons and women with endometriosis, which might contribute to a compromised progesterone response by diminishing the levels of FKBP4. Resection of DIE is likely to reverse the progesterone resistance associated with endometriosis in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Niraj R. Joshi
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503;
| | | | - Yalda Afshar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California, Los Angeles, California 90095;
| | - Jae-Wook Jeong
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503;
| | - Steven L. Young
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of North Carolina School of Medicine, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599;
| | - Bruce A. Lessey
- Greenville Hospital System, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Greenville, South Carolina 29605; and
| | - Paulo C. Serafini
- Discipline of Gynecology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital das clinicas, faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo 01246-903, Brazil
| | - Asgerally T. Fazleabas
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan 49503;
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23
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Celik O, Acet M, Kucuk T, Haberal ET, Acet T, Bozkurt M, Sahin L, Verit FF, Caliskan E. Surgery for Benign Gynecological Disorders Improve Endometrium Receptivity. Reprod Sci 2016; 24:174-192. [DOI: 10.1177/1933719116654993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Onder Celik
- Private Clinic, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Usak, Turkey
| | - Mustafa Acet
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medipol University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Tansu Kucuk
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Acıbadem University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Esra Tustas Haberal
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Umraniye Education and Research Hospital, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Tuba Acet
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medicine Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Murat Bozkurt
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sakarya University School of Medicine, Sakarya, Turkey
| | - Levent Sahin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kafkas University School of Medicine, Kars, Turkey
| | - Fatma Ferda Verit
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Süleymaniye Education and Research Hospital, İstanbul, Turkey
| | - Eray Caliskan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bahcesehir University School of Medicine, Kocaeli, Turkey
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Ersahin A, Celik O, Acet M, Ersahin S, Acet T, Bozkurt DK, Yavuz Y, Ilhan S. Impact of Endometrioma Resection on Eutopic Endometrium Metabolite Contents: Noninvasive Evaluation of Endometrium Receptivity. Reprod Sci 2016; 24:790-795. [PMID: 27678098 DOI: 10.1177/1933719116670039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Aynur Ersahin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bahcesehir University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Onder Celik
- Private Clinic, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Usak, Turkey
| | - Mustafa Acet
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medipol University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Suphan Ersahin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kemerburgaz University Medical Faculty, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Tuba Acet
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medicine Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Yasemin Yavuz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Istanbul Yeniufuk Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Selcuk Ilhan
- Department of Medical Pharmacology, Firat University School of Medicine, Elaziğ, Turkey
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25
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Makker A, Goel MM, Nigam D, Bhatia V, Mahdi AA, Das V, Pandey A. Endometrial Expression of Homeobox Genes and Cell Adhesion Molecules in Infertile Women With Intramural Fibroids During Window of Implantation. Reprod Sci 2016; 24:435-444. [PMID: 27407137 DOI: 10.1177/1933719116657196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
This study was designed to examine the expression and cellular distribution of homeobox ( HOX) genes ( HOXA10 and HOXA11) and cell adhesion molecules (E-cadherin, N-cadherin, and β-catenin) during the window of implantation in infertile women with noncavity-distorting intramural (IM) fibroids (n = 18) and in fertile controls (n = 12). Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry were used to evaluate the messenger RNA (mRNA) levels and protein expression, respectively. When compared to fertile controls, reduced HOXA10 and HOXA11 transcript and protein levels were observed in infertile women. However, changes only in the expression of HOXA10 mRNA (-1.72-fold; P = .03) and stromal protein ( P = .001) were statistically significant. Significantly lower E-cadherin mRNA (-10.97-fold; P = .02) and protein levels were seen in infertile patients. E-cadherin immunostaining was significantly reduced both in the luminal ( P = .048) and in the glandular ( P = .014) epithelium of endometrium from infertile patients when compared to controls. No significant change was observed either in the mRNA levels or in the immunoexpression of N-cadherin and β-catenin. However, a trend toward lower N-cadherin expression in the luminal epithelium ( P = .054) and decreased β-catenin expression in the glandular epithelium ( P = .070) was observed in infertile patients. The present findings suggest that altered endometrial HOXA10 and E-cadherin mRNA and protein expression observed in infertile women with IM fibroids during the mid-secretory phase might impair endometrial receptivity leading to infertility in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annu Makker
- 1 Post-Graduate Department of Pathology, King George's Medical University-UP, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Madhu Mati Goel
- 1 Post-Graduate Department of Pathology, King George's Medical University-UP, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Dipti Nigam
- 1 Post-Graduate Department of Pathology, King George's Medical University-UP, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Vikram Bhatia
- 1 Post-Graduate Department of Pathology, King George's Medical University-UP, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Abbas Ali Mahdi
- 2 Department of Biochemistry, King George's Medical University-UP, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Vinita Das
- 3 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King George's Medical University-UP, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Amita Pandey
- 3 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, King George's Medical University-UP, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India
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