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Xia T, Umezu K, Scully DM, Wang S, Larina IV. In vivo volumetric depth-resolved imaging of cilia metachronal waves using dynamic optical coherence tomography. OPTICA 2023; 10:1439-1451. [PMID: 38665775 PMCID: PMC11044847 DOI: 10.1364/optica.499927] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/28/2024]
Abstract
Motile cilia are dynamic hair-like structures covering epithelial surfaces in multiple organs. The periodic coordinated beating of cilia creates waves propagating along the surface, known as the metachronal waves, which transport fluids and mucus along the epithelium. Motile ciliopathies result from disrupted coordinated cilia beating and are associated with serious clinical complications, including reproductive disorders. Despite the recognized clinical significance, research of cilia dynamics is extremely limited. Here, we present quantitative imaging of cilia metachronal waves volumetrically through tissue layers using dynamic optical coherence tomography (OCT). Our method relies on spatiotemporal mapping of the phase of intensity fluctuations in OCT images caused by the ciliary beating. We validated our new method ex vivo and implemented it in vivo to visualize cilia metachronal wave propagation within the mouse fallopian tube. This method can be extended to the assessment of physiological cilia function and ciliary dyskinesias in various organ systems, contributing to better management of pathologies associated with motile ciliopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian Xia
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Kohei Umezu
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Deirdre M. Scully
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
| | - Shang Wang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Stevens Institute of Technology, Hoboken, New Jersey 07030, USA
| | - Irina V. Larina
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030, USA
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2
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Umezu K, Larina IV. Optical coherence tomography for dynamic investigation of mammalian reproductive processes. Mol Reprod Dev 2023; 90:3-13. [PMID: 36574640 PMCID: PMC9877170 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The biological events associated with mammalian reproductive processes are highly dynamic and tightly regulated by molecular, genetic, and biomechanical factors. Implementation of live imaging in reproductive research is vital for the advancement of our understanding of normal reproductive physiology and for improving the management of reproductive disorders. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is emerging as a promising tool for dynamic volumetric imaging of various reproductive processes in mice and other animal models. In this review, we summarize recent studies employing OCT-based approaches toward the investigation of reproductive processes in both, males and females. We describe how OCT can be applied to study structural features of the male reproductive system and sperm transport through the male reproductive tract. We review OCT applications for in vitro and dynamic in vivo imaging of the female reproductive system, staging and tracking of oocytes and embryos, and investigations of the oocyte/embryo transport through the oviduct. We describe how the functional OCT approach can be applied to the analysis of cilia dynamics within the male and female reproductive systems. We also discuss the areas of research, where OCT could find potential applications to progress our understanding of normal reproductive physiology and reproductive disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kohei Umezu
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Irina V Larina
- Department of Integrative Physiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
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3
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Bovine sperm-oviduct interactions are characterized by specific sperm behaviour, ultrastructure and tubal reactions which are impacted by sex sorting. Sci Rep 2020; 10:16522. [PMID: 33020549 PMCID: PMC7536416 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-73592-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
To date sperm-oviduct interactions have largely been investigated under in vitro conditions. Therefore we set out to characterize the behaviour of bovine spermatozoa within the sperm reservoir under near in vivo conditions and in real-time using a novel live cell imaging technology and a newly established fluorescent sperm binding assay. Sperm structure and tubal reactions after sperm binding were analysed using scanning and transmission electron microscopy and histochemistry. As a model to specify the impact of stress on sperm-oviduct interactions, frozen-thawed conventional and sex-sorted spermatozoa from the same bulls (n = 7) were co-incubated with oviducts obtained from cows immediately after slaughter. Our studies revealed that within the oviductal sperm reservoir agile (bound at a tangential angle of about 30°, actively beating undulating tail), lagging (bound at a lower angle, reduced tail movement), immotile (absence of tail movement) and hyperactivated (whip-like movement of tail) spermatozoa occur, the prevalence of which changes in a time-dependent pattern. After formation of the sperm reservoir, tubal ciliary beat frequency is significantly increased (p = 0.022) and the epithelial cells show increased activity of endoplasmic reticula. After sex sorting, spermatozoa occasionally display abnormal movement patterns characterized by a 360° rotating head and tail. Sperm binding in the oviduct is significantly reduced (p = 0.008) following sexing. Sex-sorted spermatozoa reveal deformations in the head, sharp bends in the tail and a significantly increased prevalence of damaged mitochondria (p < 0.001). Our results imply that the oviductal cells specifically react to the binding of spermatozoa, maintaining sperm survival within the tubal reservoir. The sex-sorting process, which is associated with mechanical, chemical and time stress, impacts sperm binding to the oviduct and mitochondrial integrity affecting sperm motility and function.
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He Y, Qu Y, Jing JC, Chen Z. Characterization of oviduct ciliary beat frequency using real time phase resolved Doppler spectrally encoded interferometric microscopy. BIOMEDICAL OPTICS EXPRESS 2019; 10:5650-5659. [PMID: 31799037 PMCID: PMC6865119 DOI: 10.1364/boe.10.005650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Revised: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 08/04/2019] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Ciliary activity, characterized by the coordinated beating of ciliary cells, generates the primary driving force for oviduct tubal transport, which is an essential physiological process for successful pregnancies. Malfunction of the cilium in the fallopian tube, or oviduct, may increase the risk of infertility and tubal pregnancy that can result in maternal death. While many ex-vivo studies have been carried out using bright field microscopy, this technique is not feasible for the in-vivo investigation of oviduct ciliary beating frequency (CBF). Optical coherence tomography (OCT) has been able to provide in-vivo CBF imaging in a mouse model, but its resolution may be insufficient to resolve the spatial and temporal features of the cilium. Our group has recently developed the phase resolved Doppler (PRD) OCT method to visualize ciliary strokes at ultra-high displacement sensitivity. However, the cross-sectional field of view (FOV) may not be ideal for visualizing the surface dynamics of ciliated tissue. In this study, we report on the development of phase resolved Doppler spectrally encoded interferometric microscopy (PRD-SEIM) to visualize the oviduct ciliary activity within an en face FOV. This novel real time imaging system offers micrometer spatial resolution, sub-nanometer displacement sensitivity, and the potential for in-vivo endoscopic adaptation. The feasibility of the approach has been validated through ex-vivo experiments where the porcine oviduct CBF has been measured across different temperature conditions and the application of a drug. CBF ranging from 8 to 12 Hz have been observed at different temperatures, while administration of lidocaine decreased the CBF and deactivated the motile cilia. This study will serve as a stepping stone to in-vivo oviduct ciliary endoscopy and future clinical translations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Youmin He
- Beckman Laser Institute, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, 1002 Health Sciences Road East, Irvine, CA 92612, USA
- First two authors contributed equally to this study
| | - Yueqiao Qu
- Beckman Laser Institute, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, 1002 Health Sciences Road East, Irvine, CA 92612, USA
- First two authors contributed equally to this study
| | - Joseph C. Jing
- Beckman Laser Institute, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, 1002 Health Sciences Road East, Irvine, CA 92612, USA
| | - Zhongping Chen
- Beckman Laser Institute, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California, Irvine, 1002 Health Sciences Road East, Irvine, CA 92612, USA
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Introduction: A Brief Guide to the Periconception Environment. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2017; 1014:1-14. [PMID: 28864982 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-62414-3_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
Abstract
Definition of the periconception period is not an exact science and is probably somewhat arbitrary. One can define it as spanning the period from the final stages of gamete maturation until formation of the embryo and the stages of embryonic development and implantation. Hence, the periconception period includes periods when spermatozoa are in the female reproductive tract, oocytes are matured and ovulated into the oviduct, fertilization occurs and the embryo undergoes development. By definition the implantation process and the early stages of placenta formation are also regarded as a part of the periconception period. In this article we highlight a few of the major advances which have transformed this topic over the last two decades. It is now clear that the fitness and wellbeing of developing mammalian embryos, including the human, are highly dependent on the health status, diet and habits of both parents especially in the months and weeks that precede the formation of oocytes and spermatozoa.
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Yoshimoto Y, Nishie T, Ito S, Kobayashi Y, Yamamoto Y, Okuda K, Kimura K. Adrenomedullin regulates the speed of oviductal fluid flow in cattle. Mol Reprod Dev 2017. [DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yuka Yoshimoto
- Laboratory of Animal Reproductive Physiology, Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science; Okayama University; Okayama Japan
| | - Takumi Nishie
- Laboratory of Animal Reproductive Physiology, Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science; Okayama University; Okayama Japan
| | - Sayaka Ito
- Laboratory of Animal Reproductive Physiology, Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science; Okayama University; Okayama Japan
| | - Yoshihiko Kobayashi
- Laboratory of Animal Reproductive Physiology, Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science; Okayama University; Okayama Japan
| | - Yuki Yamamoto
- Laboratory of Animal Reproductive Physiology, Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science; Okayama University; Okayama Japan
| | - Kiyoshi Okuda
- Laboratory of Animal Reproductive Physiology, Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science; Okayama University; Okayama Japan
- Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine; Hokkaido Japan
| | - Koji Kimura
- Laboratory of Animal Reproductive Physiology, Graduate School of Environmental and Life Science; Okayama University; Okayama Japan
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Li S, Winuthayanon W. Oviduct: roles in fertilization and early embryo development. J Endocrinol 2017; 232:R1-R26. [PMID: 27875265 DOI: 10.1530/joe-16-0302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 157] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2016] [Accepted: 10/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Animal oviducts and human Fallopian tubes are a part of the female reproductive tract that hosts fertilization and pre-implantation development of the embryo. With an increasing understanding of roles of the oviduct at the cellular and molecular levels, current research signifies the importance of the oviduct on naturally conceived fertilization and pre-implantation embryo development. This review highlights the physiological conditions within the oviduct during fertilization, environmental regulation, oviductal fluid composition and its role in protecting embryos and supplying nutrients. Finally, the review compares different aspects of naturally occurring fertilization and assisted reproductive technology (ART)-achieved fertilization and embryo development, giving insight into potential areas for improvement in this technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Li
- School of Molecular BiosciencesCollege of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - Wipawee Winuthayanon
- School of Molecular BiosciencesCollege of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
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8
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Li HWR, Liao SB, Chiu PCN, Yeung WSB, Ng EHY, Cheung ANY, Tang F, O WS. Effects of adrenomedullin on the expression of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in oviducts from women with tubal ectopic pregnancy: an in-vitro experimental study. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2015; 13:120. [PMID: 26542809 PMCID: PMC4635555 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-015-0117-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2015] [Accepted: 10/22/2015] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The occurrence of tubal ectopic pregnancy (tEP) is related to the inflammation of the oviduct. Recently, Adrenomedullin (ADM) was found highly expression in human oviduct. The current study is to investigate whether ADM have a modulatory action on inflammatory cytokines and chemokines in oviductal tissue from women with tubal ectopic pregnancy (tEP). METHODS Oviductal isthmus samples were collected from women with tEP undergoing salpingectomy, and women undergoing hysterectomy for benign gynaecological conditions. The mRNA and protein levels of inflammatory cytokines/chemokines were assayed by PCR (n = 6 for tEP, n = 5 for controls) and protein microarray methods (n = 5 for both tEP and controls) respectively. RESULTS Some of the inflammatory cytokines/chemokines were upregulated by ADM in oviducts from tEP patients at both mRNA and protein levels. Incubation of oviduct from tEP patients with ADM for 24 h down-regulated some of these cytokines/chemokines. CONCLUSION Our results suggest an additional mechanism whereby ADM insufficiency may increase the susceptibility to tEP through diminished anti-inflammatory activity. The actual impact of the relationship between ADM and inflammatory process on tubal implantation needs further exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Wun Raymond Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Growth, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
| | - Su-Bin Liao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Growth, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
| | - Philip Chi Ngong Chiu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Growth, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
| | - William Shu Biu Yeung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Growth, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
| | - Ernest Hung Yu Ng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Growth, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
| | - Annie Nga Yin Cheung
- Department of Pathology, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
| | - Fai Tang
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
- Centre of Heart, Brain, Hormone and Healthy Aging, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
| | - Wai Sum O
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Hong Kong, Queen Mary Hospital, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
- School of Biomedical Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
- Centre of Reproduction, Development and Growth, The University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong, Hong Kong.
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Wang S, Burton JC, Behringer RR, Larina IV. In vivo micro-scale tomography of ciliary behavior in the mammalian oviduct. Sci Rep 2015; 5:13216. [PMID: 26279472 PMCID: PMC4538602 DOI: 10.1038/srep13216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2015] [Accepted: 07/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Motile cilia in the mammalian oviduct play a key role in reproduction, such as transporting fertilized oocytes to the uterus for implantation. Due to their small size (~5-10 μm in length and ~300 nm in diameter), live visualization of cilia and their activity in the lumen of the oviduct through tissue layers represents a major challenge not yet overcome. Here, we report a functional low-coherence optical imaging technique that allows in vivo depth-resolved mapping of the cilia location and cilia beat frequency (CBF) in the intact mouse oviduct with micro-scale spatial resolution. We validate our approach with widely-used microscopic imaging methods, present the first in vivo mapping of the oviduct CBF in its native context, and demonstrate the ability of this approach to differentiate CBF in different locations of the oviduct at different post-conception stages. This technique opens a range of opportunities for live studies in reproductive medicine as well as other areas focused on cilia activity and related ciliopathies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shang Wang
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Jason C Burton
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Richard R Behringer
- Department of Genetics, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA
| | - Irina V Larina
- Department of Molecular Physiology and Biophysics, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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Wong P, Cheung M, WS O, Tang F. Intermedin inhibits norepinephrine-induced contraction of rat seminal vesicle. ASIAN PACIFIC JOURNAL OF REPRODUCTION 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/s2305-0500(14)60022-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
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11
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Li HWR, Liao SB, Yeung WSB, Ng EHY, O WS, Ho PC. Ulipristal acetate resembles mifepristone in modulating human Fallopian tube function. Hum Reprod 2014; 29:2156-62. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deu210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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12
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Adrenomedullin and endocrine control of immune cells during pregnancy. Cell Mol Immunol 2014; 11:456-9. [PMID: 25132453 DOI: 10.1038/cmi.2014.71] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2014] [Accepted: 07/03/2014] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The immunology of pregnancy is complex and incompletely understood. Aberrant immune activity in the decidua and in the placenta is believed to play a role in diseases of pregnancy, such as infertility, miscarriage, fetal growth restriction and preeclampsia. Here, we briefly review the endocrine control of uterine natural killer cell populations and their functions by the peptide hormone adrenomedullin. Studies in genetic animal models have revealed the critical importance of adrenomedullin dosage at the maternal-fetal interface, with cells from both the maternal and fetal compartments contributing to essential aspects underlying appropriate uterine receptivity, implantation and vascular remodeling of spiral arteries. These basic insights into the crosstalk between the endocrine and immune systems within the maternal-fetal interface may ultimately translate to a better understanding of the functions and consequences of dysregulated adrenomedullin levels in clinically complicated pregnancies.
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Ezzati M, Djahanbakhch O, Arian S, Carr BR. Tubal transport of gametes and embryos: a review of physiology and pathophysiology. J Assist Reprod Genet 2014; 31:1337-47. [PMID: 25117646 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-014-0309-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2014] [Accepted: 07/22/2014] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
With the advent of assisted reproductive technology in the past three decades, the clinical importance of fallopian tubes has been relatively overlooked. However, successful spontaneous conception requires normal function of the tube to provide not only a conduit for the gametes to convene and embryo to reach the uterine cavity, but also a physiologically optimized environment for fertilization and early embryonic development. In this review, after a brief description of normal human tubal anatomy and histology, we will discuss tubal transport and its principal effectors, including ciliary motion, muscular contractility and tubal fluid. Furthermore, we will discuss the ciliary ultrastructure and regulation of ciliary beat frequency by ovarian steroids, follicular fluid, angiotensin system, autonomic nervous system and other factors such as adrenomedullin and prostaglandins. In the last section, we describe the adverse impact of various pathological conditions, such as endometriosis, infection and smoking on tubal function and ciliary motility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Ezzati
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd, Dallas, TX, 75390-9032, USA,
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Liao SB, Cheung KH, Cheung MPL, To YT, O WS, Tang F. Adrenomedullin increased the short-circuit current in the pig oviduct through chloride channels via the CGRP receptor: mediation by cAMP and calcium ions but not by nitric oxide. Biol Reprod 2013; 89:99. [PMID: 23966326 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.113.109934] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
The oviduct serves as a site for the fertilization of the ovum and the transport of the conceptus down to the uterus for implantation. In this study, we investigated the presence of adrenomedullin (ADM) and its receptor component proteins in the pig oviduct. The effect of ADM on oviductal secretion, the specific receptor, and the mechanisms involved were also investigated. The presence of ADM and its receptor component proteins in the pig oviduct were confirmed using immunostaining. Short-circuit current (I(sc)) technique was employed to study chloride ion secretion in the oviductal epithelium. ADM increased I(sc) through cAMP- and calcium-activated chloride channels, and this effect could be inhibited by the CGRP receptor antagonist, hCGRP8-37. In contrast, the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor, L-NG-nitroarginine methyl ester (L-NAME), could not block the effect of ADM on I(sc). In summary, ADM may increase oviductal fluid secretion via chloride secretion independent of the nitric oxide pathway for the transport of sperm and the conceptus.
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Affiliation(s)
- S B Liao
- Department of Anatomy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam, Hong Kong, China
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15
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Wong CW, O WS, Tang F. Intermedin in rat uterus: changes in gene expression and peptide levels across the estrous cycle and its effects on uterine contraction. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2013; 11:13. [PMID: 23442365 PMCID: PMC3598482 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-11-13] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2012] [Accepted: 02/19/2013] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The present study demonstrates the expression of intermedin (IMD) and its receptor components in the uterus of the female rat during the estrous cycle and its effect on uterine contraction. METHODS The gene expression level of intermedin and its receptor components and the peptide level of intermedin were studied by real-time RT-PCR and enzyme immunoassay (EIA) respectively. The separation of precursor and mature IMD was studied by gel filtration chromatography and EIA. The localization of IMD in the uterus was investigated by immunohistochemistry. The effect of IMD on in vitro uterine contraction was studied by organ bath technique. RESULTS Uterine mRNAs of Imd and its receptor components and IMD levels displayed cyclic changes across the estrous cycle. Imd mRNA level was the highest at proestrus while the IMD level was the highest at diestrus. IMD was found in the luminal and glandular epithelia and IMD treatment significantly reduced the amplitude and frequency of uterine contraction but not the basal tone. Both calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) receptor antagonist hCGRP8-37 and adrenomedullin (ADM) receptor antagonist hADM22-52 partially abolished the inhibitory effect of IMD on uterine contraction while the specific IMD receptor antagonist hIMD17-47 completely blocked the actions. The enzyme inhibitors of NO (L-NAME) and PI3K (Wortmannin) pathways diminished the IMD effects on uterine contraction while the cAMP/PKA blocker, KT5720, had no effect, indicating an involvement of NO and PI3K/Akt but not PKA. CONCLUSIONS IMD and the gene expression of its receptor components are differentially regulated in the uterus during the estrous cycle and IMD inhibits uterine contraction by decreasing the amplitude and frequency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chi-Wai Wong
- Departments of Physiology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, Pokfulam, China
| | - Wai-Sum O
- Department of Anatomy, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, Pokfulam, China
- Center of Growth, Reproduction and Development, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, Pokfulam, China
| | - Fai Tang
- Departments of Physiology, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, Pokfulam, China
- Center of Heart, Brain, Hormone and Healthy Aging, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, Pokfulam, China
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16
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Lenhart PM, Caron KM. Adrenomedullin and pregnancy: perspectives from animal models to humans. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2012; 23:524-32. [PMID: 22425034 PMCID: PMC3380178 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2012.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2011] [Revised: 02/17/2012] [Accepted: 02/22/2012] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
A healthy pregnancy requires strict coordination of genetic, physiologic and environmental factors. The relatively common incidence of infertility and pregnancy complications has resulted in increased interest in understanding the mechanisms that underlie normal versus abnormal pregnancy. The peptide hormone adrenomedullin (AM) has recently been the focus of some exciting breakthroughs in the pregnancy field. Supported by mechanistic studies in genetic animal models, there continues to be a growing body of evidence demonstrating the importance of AM protein levels in a variety of human pregnancy complications. With more extensive mechanistic studies and improved consistency in clinical measurements of AM, there is great potential for the development of AM as a clinically-relevant biomarker in pregnancy and pregnancy complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patricia M. Lenhart
- Department of Cell & Molecular Physiology, The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA 27599
| | - Kathleen M. Caron
- Department of Cell & Molecular Physiology, The University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA 27599
- Corresponding Author: Kathleen M. Caron, Department of Cell and Molecular Physiology, CB #7545, 6340B MBRB 111 Mason Farm Road, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599. Tel: (919) 966-5215, FAX: (919) 966-5230.
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Liao SB, O WS, Tang F. Adrenomedullin Inhibits Norepinephrine-induced Contraction of Rat Seminal Vesicle. Urology 2012; 80:224.e1-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.urology.2012.03.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2011] [Revised: 03/20/2012] [Accepted: 03/29/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Liao SB, Kong LH, Tang F, Sum O W. Possible functions of adrenomedullin from the seminal fluid in the female reproductive tract of the rat. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2012; 58:306-12. [DOI: 10.3109/19396368.2012.695855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Liao SB, Li HWR, Ho JC, Yeung WSB, Ng EHY, Cheung ANY, Tang F, O WS. Possible role of adrenomedullin in the pathogenesis of tubal ectopic pregnancy. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2012; 97:2105-12. [PMID: 22456622 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2011-3290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Tubal ectopic pregnancy (tEP) is currently the leading cause of pregnancy-related deaths during the first trimester. Our current knowledge on the molecular pathogenesis is limited. OBJECTIVE The objective of the study was to find out the possible role of adrenomedullin (ADM) in the pathogenesis of tEP. DESIGN This was an experimental in vitro study on oviductal tissue. SETTING The study was conducted at a university teaching hospital. PATIENTS AND INTERVENTIONS Patients included those having oviducts removed surgically during salpingectomy for tEP or hysterectomy for benign gynecological conditions. Oviductal tissues were incubated in hormonal condition mimicking early pregnancy before used for in vitro experiments. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Plasma ADM concentration, oviductal expression of ADM and its receptors, ciliary beat frequency, smooth muscle contraction were measured. RESULTS The ciliary beat frequency and frequency of muscle contraction were lower in the oviducts from patients with tEP than those from simulated normal pregnancy. The plasma and oviductal tissue ADM levels were also lower. The decreases in ciliary beat and frequency of contraction were restored to normal after ADM treatment. CONCLUSIONS The results suggest that the lower ADM level in the oviducts of tEP may lead to the decrease in ciliary beating and muscle contraction, with the result that the embryo is retained and implanted in the oviduct. Our findings explain for the first time the etiology of tubal pregnancy on the basis of an impairment of the transport of the fertilized ovum resulting from an ADM deficiency and raise the possibility of using the plasma ADM level as a predictor for tubal ectopic pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- S B Liao
- Department of Anatomy, The University of Hong Kong, First Floor, Laboratory Block, Faculty of Medicine Building, 21 Sassoon Road, Pokfulam, Hong Kong
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Li L, Tang F, O WS. Preimplantation antagonism of adrenomedullin action compromises fetoplacental development and reduces litter size. Theriogenology 2012; 77:1846-53. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2011.12.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2011] [Revised: 12/30/2011] [Accepted: 12/30/2011] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Aldarmahi A, Elliott S, Russell J, Klonisch T, Hombach-Klonisch S, Fazeli A. Characterisation of an in vitro system to study maternal communication with spermatozoa. Reprod Fertil Dev 2012; 24:988-98. [DOI: 10.1071/rd11268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2011] [Accepted: 02/09/2012] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
In vivo, gamete maturation, fertilisation and early embryonic development take place inside the oviduct. Several studies have indicated that local responses towards gametes and embryos are generated by the maternal reproductive tract. However, no defined in vitro model currently exists to allow detailed and systematic investigation of maternal communications with gametes and embryos. Therefore, we characterised an in vitro model based on the interaction of boar spermatozoa with an immortalised porcine oviduct epithelial cell line to evaluate different factors that may affect this model. The factors tested were sperm viability, source of spermatozoa, cell passage effect and the effect of reproductive and non-reproductive epithelial cells in the interaction with spermatozoa. After 24 h of co-incubation, RNA was extracted and used to synthesise cDNA for quantitative real-time PCR. Alteration in the expression of genes such as adrenomedullin, heat-shock 70-kDa protein 8 and prostaglandin E synthase was considered as the end point of this assay. The results showed that sperm viability and cell passage number had an effect on oviductal gene expression in response to spermatozoa. Oviductal cells showed significant alterations in gene expression when compared with non-reproductive epithelial cells. The simple in vitro system described here has potential application for further studies in our understanding of mechanisms involved in maternal interactions with spermatozoa.
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