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Terzieva A, Alexandrova M, Manchorova D, Slavov S, Djerov L, Dimova T. HLA-G Expression/Secretion and T-Cell Cytotoxicity in Missed Abortion in Comparison to Normal Pregnancy. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2643. [PMID: 38473890 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25052643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2023] [Revised: 02/18/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
The main role of HLA-G is to protect the semi-allogeneic embryo from immune rejection by proper interaction with its cognate receptors on the maternal immune cells. Spontaneous abortion is the most common adverse pregnancy outcome, with an incidence rate between 10% and 15%, with immunologic dysregulation being thought to play a role in some of the cases. In this study, we aimed to detect the membrane and soluble HLA-G molecule at the maternal-fetal interface (MFI) and in the serum of women experiencing missed abortion (asymptomatic early pregnancy loss) in comparison to the women experiencing normal early pregnancy. In addition, the proportion of T cells and their cytotoxic profile was evaluated. We observed no difference in the spatial expression of HLA-G at the MFI and in its serum levels between the women with missed abortions and those with normal early pregnancy. In addition, comparable numbers of peripheral blood and decidual total T and γδT cells were found. In addition, as novel data we showed that missed abortion is not associated with altered extravilous invasion into uterine blood vessels and increased cytotoxicity of γδT cells. A strong signal for HLA-G on non-migrating extravilous trophoblast in the full-term normal placental bed was detected. In conclusion, HLA-G production at the MFI or in the blood of the women could not be used as a marker for normal pregnancy or missed abortions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonia Terzieva
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction "Acad. Kiril Bratanov", Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Marina Alexandrova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction "Acad. Kiril Bratanov", Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Diana Manchorova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction "Acad. Kiril Bratanov", Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Sergei Slavov
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Medical University, University Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital "Maichin Dom", 1431 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Lyubomir Djerov
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Department, Medical University, University Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital "Maichin Dom", 1431 Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Tanya Dimova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction "Acad. Kiril Bratanov", Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113 Sofia, Bulgaria
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2
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Alexandrova M, Manchorova D, You Y, Terzieva A, Dimitrova V, Mor G, Dimova T. Validation of the Sw71-spheroid model with primary trophoblast cells. Am J Reprod Immunol 2023; 90:e13800. [PMID: 38009060 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
PROBLEM Human implantation is a limiting factor for the success of natural and IVF reproduction since about 60% of pregnancy losses occur in the peri-implantation period. The in vitro modeling of human implantation challenges the researchers in accurate recreation of the complex in vivo differentiation and function of human blastocyst in the peri-implantation period. In previous studies, we constructed Sw71-spheroid models, which like human blastocyst undergo compactization, attaches to the endometrial epithelium, invade, and migrate. The aim of this study was to validate the trophoblast Sw71-spheroid model with primary trophoblast cells, derived from healthy women in early pregnancy. METHOD OF STUDY We performed a direct comparison of Sw71-spheroid model with placenta-derived primary trophoblasts regarding their hybrid phenotype and HLA status, as well as the ability to generate spheroids able to migrate and invade. From the primary trophoblast cells, isolated by mild enzymatic treatment and Percoll gradient separation, were generated long-lived clones, which phenotype was assessed by FACS and immunocytochemistry. RESULTS Our results showed that cultured primary trophoblasts have the EVT phenotype (Vim+/CK7+/HLA-C+/HLA-G+), like Sw71 cells. In both 3D culture settings, we obtained stable, round-shaped, multilayered spheroids. Although constructed from the same number of cells, the primary trophoblast spheroids were smaller. The primary trophoblast spheroids migrate successfully, and in term of invasion are equally potent but less stable as compared to Sw71 spheroids. CONCLUSIONS The Sw71 cell line and cultured native trophoblast cells are interchangeable regarding their EVT phenotype (HLA-C+/HLA-G+/Vim+/CK7+). The blastocyst-like spheroids sourced by both types of cells differentiate in the same time frame and function similarly. We strongly advise the use of Sw71 spheroids as blastocyst surrogate for observation on trophectoderm differentiation and function during early human implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Alexandrova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction "Acad. Kiril Bratanov", Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Diana Manchorova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction "Acad. Kiril Bratanov", Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Yuan You
- C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Antonia Terzieva
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction "Acad. Kiril Bratanov", Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Violeta Dimitrova
- Fetal medicine clinic, Medical University, University Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital "Maichin Dom", Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Gil Mor
- C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan, USA
| | - Tanya Dimova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction "Acad. Kiril Bratanov", Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
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3
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You Y, Grasso E, Alvero A, Condon J, Dimova T, Hu A, Ding J, Alexandrova M, Manchorova D, Dimitrova V, Liao A, Mor G. Twist1-IRF9 Interaction Is Necessary for IFN-Stimulated Gene Anti-Zika Viral Infection. J Immunol 2023; 210:1899-1912. [PMID: 37144865 PMCID: PMC10615665 DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2300081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
An efficient immune defense against pathogens requires sufficient basal sensing mechanisms that can deliver prompt responses. Type I IFNs are protective against acute viral infections and respond to viral and bacterial infections, but their efficacy depends on constitutive basal activity that promotes the expression of downstream genes known as IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs). Type I IFNs and ISGs are constitutively produced at low quantities and yet exert profound effects essential for numerous physiological processes beyond antiviral and antimicrobial defense, including immunomodulation, cell cycle regulation, cell survival, and cell differentiation. Although the canonical response pathway for type I IFNs has been extensively characterized, less is known regarding the transcriptional regulation of constitutive ISG expression. Zika virus (ZIKV) infection is a major risk for human pregnancy complications and fetal development and depends on an appropriate IFN-β response. However, it is poorly understood how ZIKV, despite an IFN-β response, causes miscarriages. We have uncovered a mechanism for this function specifically in the context of the early antiviral response. Our results demonstrate that IFN regulatory factor (IRF9) is critical in the early response to ZIKV infection in human trophoblast. This function is contingent on IRF9 binding to Twist1. In this signaling cascade, Twist1 was not only a required partner that promotes IRF9 binding to the IFN-stimulated response element but also an upstream regulator that controls basal levels of IRF9. The absence of Twist1 renders human trophoblast cells susceptible to ZIKV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan You
- C. S Mott Center for Human Development, Wayne State University, 275 E Hancock St, Detroit, MI, 48093
| | - Esteban Grasso
- C. S Mott Center for Human Development, Wayne State University, 275 E Hancock St, Detroit, MI, 48093
- School of Science, University of Buenos Aires, Intendente Guiraldes 2160, Buenos Aires, 1428
| | - Ayesha Alvero
- C. S Mott Center for Human Development, Wayne State University, 275 E Hancock St, Detroit, MI, 48093
| | - Jennifer Condon
- C. S Mott Center for Human Development, Wayne State University, 275 E Hancock St, Detroit, MI, 48093
| | - Tanya Dimova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction “Acad. K. Bratanov”, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Anna Hu
- C. S Mott Center for Human Development, Wayne State University, 275 E Hancock St, Detroit, MI, 48093
| | - Jiahui Ding
- C. S Mott Center for Human Development, Wayne State University, 275 E Hancock St, Detroit, MI, 48093
| | - Marina Alexandrova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction “Acad. K. Bratanov”, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Diana Manchorova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction “Acad. K. Bratanov”, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Violeta Dimitrova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction “Acad. K. Bratanov”, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Aihua Liao
- Institute of Reproductive Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan 430030, PR China
| | - Gil Mor
- C. S Mott Center for Human Development, Wayne State University, 275 E Hancock St, Detroit, MI, 48093
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4
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Manchorova D, Papadopoulou M, Alexandrova M, Dimitrova V, Djerov L, Zapryanova S, Dimitrova P, Vangelov I, Vermijlen D, Dimova T. Human decidual gamma/delta T cells possess unique effector and TCR repertoire profiles during pregnancy. Cell Immunol 2022; 382:104634. [PMID: 36308817 DOI: 10.1016/j.cellimm.2022.104634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2022] [Revised: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Human γδ T cells are enriched at the maternal-fetal interface (MFI, decidua basalis) showing a highly differentiated phenotype. However, their functional potential is not well-known and it is not clear whether this decidua-enrichment is associated with specific γδ T cell receptors (TCR) as is observed in mice. Here we addressed these open questions by investigating decidual γδ T cells during early and late gestation, in comparison with paired blood samples, with flow cytometry (cytotoxic mediators, cytokines) and TCR high-throughput sequencing. While decidual γδ T cells expressed less perforin than their counterparts in the blood, they expressed significant more granulysin during early pregnancy. Strikingly, this high granulysin expression was limited to early pregnancy, as it was reduced at term pregnancy. In contrast to this granulysin expression pattern, decidual γδ T cells produced reduced levels of IFNγ and TNFα (compared to paired blood) in early pregnancy that then increased by term pregnancy. TCR repertoire analysis indicated that human decidual γδ T cells are not generated early in life as in the mouse. Despite this, a specific enrichment of the Vγ2 chain in the decidua in early pregnancy was observed that disappeared later onwards, reflecting dynamic changes in the decidual γδ TCR repertoire during human gestation. In conclusion, our data indicate that decidual γδ T cells express a specific and dynamic pattern of cytotoxic mediators, Th1 cytokines and TCR repertoire suggesting an important role for these unconventional T cells in assuring a healthy pregnancy in human.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Manchorova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction "Acad. K. Bratanov", Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia 1113, 73 Tzarigradsko shosse blv, Bulgaria
| | - M Papadopoulou
- Department of Pharmacotherapy and Pharmaceutics, Universite Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1050 Brussels, Belgium
| | - M Alexandrova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction "Acad. K. Bratanov", Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia 1113, 73 Tzarigradsko shosse blv, Bulgaria
| | - V Dimitrova
- Medical University, University Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital "Maichin Dom", Sofia 1463, 2 Zdrave Str., Bulgaria
| | - L Djerov
- Medical University, University Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital "Maichin Dom", Sofia 1463, 2 Zdrave Str., Bulgaria
| | - S Zapryanova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction "Acad. K. Bratanov", Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia 1113, 73 Tzarigradsko shosse blv, Bulgaria
| | - P Dimitrova
- Institute of Microbiology "Acad. St. Angelov", Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia 1113, 25 Acad. G. Bonchev str., Bulgaria
| | - I Vangelov
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction "Acad. K. Bratanov", Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia 1113, 73 Tzarigradsko shosse blv, Bulgaria
| | - D Vermijlen
- Department of Pharmacotherapy and Pharmaceutics, Universite Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 1050 Brussels, Belgium; Institute for Medical Immunology, Universitȇ Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), 6041 Gosselies, Belgium; ULB Center for Research in Immunology (U-CRI), Universite Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Belgium; Walloon Excellence in Life Sciences and Biotechnology (WELBIO), Wavre, Belgium
| | - T Dimova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction "Acad. K. Bratanov", Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia 1113, 73 Tzarigradsko shosse blv, Bulgaria.
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5
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Alexandrova M, Manchorova D, You Y, Mor G, Dimitrova V, Dimova T. Functional HLA-C expressing trophoblast spheroids as a model to study placental-maternal immune interactions during human implantation. Sci Rep 2022; 12:10224. [PMID: 35715452 PMCID: PMC9205925 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-12870-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2022] [Accepted: 05/17/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
In healthy couples over half of the conceptions result in failed pregnancy and around 30% of them occur during implantation defining it as a rate-limiting step for the success of native and in vitro fertilization. The understanding of the factors regulating each step of implantation and immune recognition is critical for the pregnancy outcome. Creation of 3D-cell culture models, such as spheroids and organoids, is in the focus of placental tissue engineering in attempt to resemble the in vivo complexity of the maternal-fetal interface and to overcome the need of laboratory animals and human embryos. We constructed stable, reliable, and reproducible trophoblast Sw71 spheroids which are functional independently of the serum level in the culture media. These models resemble the hatched human blastocyst in size, shape and function and are useful for in vitro studies of the in vivo concealed human implantation. Since Sw71 spheroids produce HLA-C, the only classical MHC molecule indispensable for establishment of the immune tolerance and proper human implantation, they are applicable for the evaluation not only of implantation itself but also of maternal-trophoblasts immune interactions. In addition, Sw71-blastocyst-like spheroids are manipulable in low-volume platform, easy to monitor and analyze automatically under treatment with favorable/detrimental factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Alexandrova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction "Acad. K. Bratanov", Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Diana Manchorova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction "Acad. K. Bratanov", Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Yuan You
- C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Wayne State University, Detroit, USA
| | - Gil Mor
- C.S. Mott Center for Human Growth and Development, Wayne State University, Detroit, USA
| | - Violeta Dimitrova
- Medical University, University Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital "Maichin Dom", Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Tanya Dimova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction "Acad. K. Bratanov", Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria.
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6
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Alexandrova M, Manchorova D, Dimova T. Immunity at maternal-fetal interface: KIR/HLA (Allo)recognition. Immunol Rev 2022; 308:55-76. [PMID: 35610960 DOI: 10.1111/imr.13087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Both KIR and HLA are the most variable gene families in the human genome. The recognition of the semi-allogeneic embryo-derived trophoblasts by maternal decidual NK (dNK) cells is essential for the establishment of the functional placenta. This recognition is based on the KIR-HLA interactions and trophoblast expresses a specific HLA profile that constitutes classical polymorphic HLA-C and non-classical oligomorphic HLA-E, HLA-F, and HLA-G molecules. This review highlights some features of the KIR/HLA-C (allo)recognition by decidual NK (dNK) cells as a main immune cell population specifically enriched at maternal-fetal interface during human early pregnancy. How KIR/HLA-C axis operates in pregnancy disorders and in the context of transplacental infections is discussed as well. We summarized old and new data on dNK-cell functional plasticity, their selective expression of KIR and fetal maternal/paternal HLA-C haplotypes present. Results showed that KIR-HLA-C combinations and the corresponding axis operate differently in each pregnancy, determined by the variability of both maternal KIR haplotypes and fetus' maternal/paternal HLA-C allotype combinations. Moreover, the maturation of NK cells strongly depends on if or not HLA allotypes for certain KIR are present. We suggest that the unique KIR/HLA combinations reached in each pregnancy (normal and pathological) should be studied according to well-defined guidelines and unified methodologies to have comparable results ease to interpret and use in clinics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Alexandrova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Diana Manchorova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Tanya Dimova
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, Sofia, Bulgaria
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Alexiev I, Golkocheva-Markova E, Kostadinova A, Dimitrova R, Nikolova L, Gancheva A, Tenev T, Elenkov I, Tcherveniakova T, Yancheva N, Stoycheva M, Doychinova T, Pekova L, Alexandrova M, Timchev A, Strashimirov D, Nikolova M. The prevalence of hepatitis B and C co-infections among people with HIV-1 in Bulgaria: 2010–2015. Future Virol 2019. [DOI: 10.2217/fvl-2019-0092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Aim: To evaluate hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) among individuals with HIV/AIDS in Bulgaria diagnosed between 2010 and 2015. Materials & methods: A total of 1158 individuals were diagnosed with HIV/AIDS during the study period. Different transmission groups were tested with ELISA and real-time PCR for HBV and HCV markers. Results: Hepatitis B surface antigen and hepatitis C virus antiboby were found in 9.3 and 23.2% of the tested. HBV DNA and HCV RNA has been found in 47.4 and 69.6%. Hepatitis B and C co-infections were predominant in multiple risk behavior groups, including people who inject drugs, men who have sex with men, prisoners and Roma individuals. Conclusion: HIV prevalence in Bulgaria is low but the rates of hepatitis B and C co-infections among these patients fall within the upper range reported in Europe.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivailo Alexiev
- National Reference Confirmatory Laboratory of HIV, National Center of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Elitsa Golkocheva-Markova
- National Reference Laboratory of Hepatitis, National Center of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Asya Kostadinova
- National Reference Confirmatory Laboratory of HIV, National Center of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Reneta Dimitrova
- National Reference Confirmatory Laboratory of HIV, National Center of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Lora Nikolova
- National Reference Confirmatory Laboratory of HIV, National Center of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Anna Gancheva
- National Reference Confirmatory Laboratory of HIV, National Center of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Tencho Tenev
- National Reference Laboratory of Hepatitis, National Center of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Ivaylo Elenkov
- Specialized Hospital for Active Treatment of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Tatiana Tcherveniakova
- Specialized Hospital for Active Treatment of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Nina Yancheva
- Specialized Hospital for Active Treatment of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Mariyana Stoycheva
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Medical University, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Tsetsa Doychinova
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Medical University, Pleven, Bulgaria
| | - Lilia Pekova
- Clinic of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital, Stara Zagora, Bulgaria
| | - Marina Alexandrova
- National Reference Laboratory of Immunology, National Center of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Andon Timchev
- Specialized Hospital for Active Treatment of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Dimitar Strashimirov
- Specialized Hospital for Active Treatment of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Maria Nikolova
- National Reference Laboratory of Immunology, National Center of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Sofia, Bulgaria
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Alexiev I, Alexandrova M, Golkocheva-Markova E, Teoharov P, Gancheva A, Kostadinova A, Dimitrova R, Elenkov I, Chervenjakova T, Stoycheva M, Nikolova D, Varleva T, Nikolova M. High Rate of Hepatitis B and C Coinfections Among People Living with HIV-1 in Bulgaria: 2010-2014. AIDS Res Hum Retroviruses 2017; 33:228-229. [PMID: 27841662 DOI: 10.1089/aid.2016.0148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
In a representative nationwide study, we have determined the prevalence of hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) coinfections among HIV-positive patients diagnosed during the period 2010-2014 in Bulgaria. Despite a relatively low rate of new HIV diagnoses, the rates of hepatitis B and C coinfections among these patients fell within the upper range reported in Europe. HBsAg and HCV antibodies (Ab) were found in 10.4% and 25.6% of the tested individuals, respectively. Importantly, high rates of active hepatitis infections were confirmed by detection of HBV DNA in 51.1% and HCV RNA in 78.1% of the tested individuals. Hepatitis coinfections affected mostly high risk groups and persons with multiple risk behavior, including people who inject drugs, men who have sex with men, prisoners, and Roma people.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivailo Alexiev
- National Reference Laboratory of HIV, National Center of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Marina Alexandrova
- National Reference Laboratory of Immunology, National Center of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Elica Golkocheva-Markova
- National Reference Laboratory of Hepatitis, National Center of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Pavel Teoharov
- National Reference Laboratory of Hepatitis, National Center of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Anna Gancheva
- National Reference Laboratory of HIV, National Center of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Asia Kostadinova
- National Reference Laboratory of HIV, National Center of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Reneta Dimitrova
- National Reference Laboratory of HIV, National Center of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Ivaylo Elenkov
- Specialized Hospital for Active Treatment of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Tatjana Chervenjakova
- Specialized Hospital for Active Treatment of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Mariana Stoycheva
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Medical University, Plovdiv, Bulgaria
| | - Daniela Nikolova
- Clinic of Infectious Diseases, Medical University, Varna, Bulgaria
| | - Tonka Varleva
- Program Prevention and Control of HIV/AIDS, Ministry of Health, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Maria Nikolova
- National Reference Laboratory of Immunology, National Center of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Sofia, Bulgaria
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Stoychev K, Ivanov K, Kojuharov C, Khrusafov D, Alexandrova M, Barkashka D. ANTYPSYCHOTICS IN SCHIZOPHRENIA TREATMENT – LITERATURE REVIEW. HSM 2016. [DOI: 10.14529/hsm160304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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10
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Alexandrova M, Yancheva N, Elenkov I, Golkocheva-Markova E, Alexiev I, Nikolova M. HCV co-infection stimulates differentiation of effector Tregulatory cells in HIV+ patients subjected to cART. J Virus Erad 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/s2055-6640(20)31169-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
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11
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Popov T, Batchvarova R, Slavov S, Docheva P, Alexandrova M, Avetisov V, Serdobinskii L, Korneeva I, Atanassov A. Genetic Transformation of Tobacco with Defensin Gene. BIOTECHNOL BIOTEC EQ 2014. [DOI: 10.1080/13102818.2003.10819189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
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13
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Alexandrova M, Rozhko T, Vydryakova G, Kudryasheva N. Effect of americium-241 on luminous bacteria. Role of peroxides. J Environ Radioact 2011; 102:407-411. [PMID: 21388726 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvrad.2011.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2010] [Revised: 02/12/2011] [Accepted: 02/13/2011] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
The effect of americium-241 ((241)Am), an alpha-emitting radionuclide of high specific activity, on luminous bacteria Photobacterium phosphoreum was studied. Traces of (241)Am in nutrient media (0.16-6.67 kBq/L) suppressed the growth of bacteria, but enhanced luminescence intensity and quantum yield at room temperature. Lower temperature (4 °C) increased the time of bacterial luminescence and revealed a stage of bioluminescence inhibition after 150 h of bioluminescence registration start. The role of conditions of exposure the bacterial cells to the (241)Am is discussed. The effect of (241)Am on luminous bacteria was attributed to peroxide compounds generated in water solutions as secondary products of radioactive decay. Increase of peroxide concentration in (241)Am solutions was demonstrated; and the similarity of (241)Am and hydrogen peroxide effects on bacterial luminescence was revealed. The study provides a scientific basis for elaboration of bioluminescence-based assay to monitor radiotoxicity of alpha-emitting radionuclides in aquatic solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Alexandrova
- Siberian Federal University, Svobodny 79, 660041 Krasnoyarsk, Russia.
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Sabatini A, Alexandrova M, Carpana E, Medrzycki P, Bortolotti L, Ghini S, Girotti S, Porrini C, Bazzi C, Baroni F, Alessandrini A. RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN APIS MELLIFERA AND ERWINIA AMYLOVORA: BIOINDICATION, BACTERIUM DISPERSAL AND QUARANTINE PROCEDURES. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2006. [DOI: 10.17660/actahortic.2006.704.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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15
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Slavov S, Valkov V, Batchvarova R, Atanassova S, Alexandrova M, Atanassov A. Chlorsulfuron resistant transgenic tobacco as a tool for broomrape control. Transgenic Res 2005; 14:273-8. [PMID: 16145835 DOI: 10.1007/s11248-004-8081-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Broomrape (Orobanche ramosa L.) is the most important parasitic plant that infests tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.). Chemical treatment of the soil is not effective and crop rotation is not acceptable to solve this problem because of the long viability period of Orobanche seeds in the soil. Application of systemic herbicides in the field with herbicide resistant tobacco could be a successful tool for broomrape control. Several tobacco cultivars were transformed with a mutant ahas3R gene for resistance to the herbicide chlorsulfuron (Glean, DuPont). Transformed plants were selfed and the segregation of resistance was followed in the next generation. The efficiency of the herbicide was demonstrated in greenhouse and field trials. An Orobanche/tobacco growth system was used in order to prove the lethal effect of the herbicide to the attached broomrape plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Slavov
- AgroBioInstitute, 8 Dragan Tzankov Blvd, 1164 Sofia, Bulgaria.
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Tzvetkov N, Bochev P, Alexandrova M. Oxidative stress in blood in cases of untreated refractory anaemia. J BUON 2005; 10:257-60. [PMID: 17343339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine some features of free radical processes in the blood of patients with untreated refractory anaemia (RA) and to interpret their pathogenetic role. MATERIALS AND METHODS Products of the lipid peroxidation (malondialdehyde-MDA) in whole blood, some antioxidant systems - superoxide dismutase (SOD) in erythrocytes, catalase (CTS) activity and the concentration of sulfhydryl groups (SHG) in whole blood, as well as the spontaneous and stimulated chemiluminescent activity of polymorphonuclear leucocytes (PMNL), reflecting the production of oxygen free radicals, were studied in the blood of 21 patients suffering from untreated RA (study group) and in 45 healthy individuals (control group). RESULTS Increased content of MDA (p<0.001), lowered level of CTS activity (p<0.001) and concentration of SHG (p<0.05), increased SOD activity (p<0.05) and an increase in the spontaneous PMNL oxidative activity (p<0.05) were found in the study group compared with the control group. CONCLUSION Strong oxidative stress was recorded in the blood of patients with untreated RA. An assumption was made that the initial iron overload helps the initiation of free radical oxidative processes in blood, accompanied with spontaneous activation of PMNL. Erythrocyte membranes probably are the main target for oxidative attack.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Tzvetkov
- Clinic of Haematology, Medical University, Pleven, Bulgaria
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Alexandrova M, Haeuseler H. Crystal structure, infrared and Raman spectra and thermal analysis of strontium-tetrahydrogen-hexaoxoperiodate-trihydrate, Sr(H4IO6)2·3H2O. J Mol Struct 2004. [DOI: 10.1016/j.molstruc.2003.12.069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Alexandrova M, Bazzi C, Lameri P. BACILLUS SUBTILIS STRAIN BS-F3: COLONIZATION OF PEAR ORGANS AND ITS ACTION AS A BIOCONTROL AGENT. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2002. [DOI: 10.17660/actahortic.2002.590.43] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Alexandrova M, Porrini C, Bazzi C, Carpana E, Bigliardi M, Sabatini A. ERWINIA AMYLOVORA LONGEVITY IN BEEHIVES, BEEHIVE PRODUCTS AND HONEYBEES. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2002. [DOI: 10.17660/actahortic.2002.590.29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Bochev P, Tzvetkov N, Alexandrova M, Magrisso M, Bechev B, Monovich O, Markova V. Development of oxidative stress in chronic kidney insufficiency following the progression of disease. Nephron Clin Pract 1997; 77:244-5. [PMID: 9346397 DOI: 10.1159/000190283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
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Kleshchinov VN, Alexandrova M. The recovery of the ultrastructure of hyperchromic host neurons under the influence of fetal neurotransplants. J Neural Transplant Plast 1992; 3:51-61. [PMID: 1571399 PMCID: PMC2565132 DOI: 10.1155/np.1992.51] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Fetal neocortical transplants placed into a previously prepared cavity in the cortex of adult animals inhibited destructive processes in host neurons surrounding the place of injury. This was demonstrated by a gradual reduction in the number of hyperchromic and shrunken host neurons and the recovery of the ultrastructure of dystrophic cells which die as a result of neuronophagia or sclerosis in the absence of the transplants.
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Affiliation(s)
- V N Kleshchinov
- Laboratory of Experimental Neurogenetics, N.I. Vavilov Institute of General Genetics, USSR Academy of Sciences, Moscow
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Alexandrova M, Holzbauer M, Racke K, Sharman DF. Acetylcholinesterase in the rat neurohypophysis is decreased after dehydration and released by stimulation of the pituitary stalk. Neuroscience 1987; 21:421-7. [PMID: 3614640 DOI: 10.1016/0306-4522(87)90132-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Specific acetylcholinesterase and non-specific cholinesterases are present in all three lobes of the rat pituitary gland. This paper describes two new observations on hypophyseal acetylcholinesterase. Firstly, a prolonged increase of neurohormone secretion evoked by dehydration and sodium loading was accompanied by a decrease in the acetylcholinesterase activity localized to the neural lobe, where acetylcholinesterase has previously been demonstrated in fine nerve fibres. Secondly, electrical stimulation of the pituitary stalk in vitro elicited the release of acetylcholinesterase and non-specific cholinesterases from the combined neural and intermediate lobe indicating that the enzyme can be released from nerve endings in the hypophysis by action potentials. The observed loss of enzyme activity during dehydration may be the consequence of a prolonged activation of cholinergic nerves in the gland, leading to an increased release of acetylcholinesterase, which is not immediately replaced by fresh enzyme. The decrease in acetylcholinesterase in the neural lobe during dehydration may also be connected with its peptidase function and thus with the previously observed loss of substance P from the neural lobe during dehydration [Holzbauer et al. (1984) Neurosci. Lett. 47, 23-28].
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Kruszyński M, Kupryszewski G, Ragnarsson U, Alexandrova M, Strbak V, Tonon MC, Vaudry H. TRH analogue with C-terminal thioamide group. Synthesis, receptor binding, TSH-releasing activity and alpha-MSH-releasing activity. Experientia 1985; 41:1576-7. [PMID: 3000815 DOI: 10.1007/bf01964815] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
A new TRH analogue containing a C-terminal thioamide group was synthesized. This peptide was shown to have receptor-binding affinity, and TSH- as well as alpha-MSH-releasing activities very similar to native TRH.
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Fuchs AR, Periyasamy S, Alexandrova M, Soloff MS. Correlation between oxytocin receptor concentration and responsiveness to oxytocin in pregnant rat myometrium: effects of ovarian steroids. Endocrinology 1983; 113:742-9. [PMID: 6872947 DOI: 10.1210/endo-113-2-742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 152] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Marked changes in the uterine binding of oxytocin (OT) occur in rats at the time of parturition or after treatment of ovariectomized rats with estrogen or progesterone. To ascertain that these binding sites represent the biological receptors for OT, we measured the uterine response to OT in various groups of rats in which specific OT binding was also determined. Intact pregnant rats and rats ovariectomized on day 20 of gestation and treated thereafter with oil, estradiol benzoate (5 micrograms/24 h), progesterone (5 mg/24 h), or estradiol and progesterone together had indwelling balloons inserted on day 20 for the recording of uterine response to either iv bolus injections or iv infusions of OT. The uterus was removed 24-48 h after balloon insertion, and OT binding to the particulate fraction as well as nuclear estrogen and cytosolic estrogen receptor concentrations were determined. An inverse correlation (r2 = 0.758) was found between the concentration of OT-binding sites and the threshold dose of OT, and a linear correlation was found between the concentration of binding sites and the uterine activity induced by OT infusion (r2 = 0.852). We conclude, therefore, that the high affinity (Kd, 1-2 nM) binding sites for OT represent the physiological receptors. The concentration of these sites increased progressively during estrogen treatment. Progesterone completely inhibited this estrogen-induced rise. After ovariectomy, there was a modest, but significant, increase in OT receptor concentration which also was prevented by progesterone. The increase in OT receptor concentration was correlated with the estrogen receptor concentration in intact pregnant and estrogen-treated ovariectomized animals, but not in the other groups of animals. The apparent affinity of the receptors for OT was not significantly affected by hormone treatment. We conclude that the concentration of receptors is a major factor controlling the uterine responsiveness to OT, and that the receptor concentrations are regulated by ovarian hormones in a manner related to estrogen receptor activation. In addition, estrogen appeared to enhance the coupling of OT receptor occupancy to the tissue response to OT.
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Abstract
Rat myometrium exhibited a marked rise in the concentration of oxytocin (OT) receptors during parturition. The elevation began several hours before labor, was maximal during labor, and declined several hours later. In the perinatal period, the change in OT receptor concentration was proportional to the ratio of plasma estradiol to progesterone levels. Several hours before the increase in OT receptor concentration, there was a proportional increase in estrogen receptor concentration in both the cytosol and nuclear fractions of the myometrium. In view of the known action of estrogens in increasing the concentration of OT receptors in rat uterus, we propose that the following sequence of events occurs in the initiation of labor in the rat. The decline in serum progesterone permits estradiol to stimulate the synthesis of estrogen receptors in the myometrium. This increased concentration of estrogen receptors and their occupancy by estradiol stimulates the appearance of more OT receptors, which then trigger labor by interacting with circulating OT.
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Alexandrova M, Soloff MS. Oxytocin receptors and parturition. II. Concentrations of receptors for oxytocin and estrogen in the gravid and nongravid uterus at term. Endocrinology 1980; 106:736-8. [PMID: 6243548 DOI: 10.1210/endo-106-3-736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
It has been postulated that intrauterine volume plays a role in the timing of parturition. In previous studies we found that the onset of parturition in the rat was associated with marked increases in the concentrations of receptors for estrogen and oxytocin in the myometrium. To determine the effects of intrauterine volume on the concentrations of these myometrial receptors, we compared receptor levels in gravid and nongravid uterine horns from unilaterally pregnant rats at or near the time of parturition. Myometria from gravid horns contained substantially greater concentrations of DNA and protein per horn than did myometria from the contralateral nongravid horns. The amounts of receptors per horn for estrogen in the nuclear and cytosol fractions and for oxytocin were 7.5, 5.2, and 4.5 times greater, respectively, in myometria from gravid horns. However, the concentration of receptors per cell was the same in gravid and nongravid horns at or near parturition. These results suggest that uterine stretch causes hyperplasia and hypertrophy of the myometrium, indicative of more DNA and protein per gravid horn than nongravid horn. The sharp rise in concentration per cell of receptors for estrogen and oxytocin occurring about the time of labor, however, appears to be induced by hormonal and not physical factors.
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Alexandrova M, Soloff MS. Oxytocin receptors and parturition. III. Increases in estrogen receptor and oxytocin receptor concentrations in the rat myometrium during prostaglandin F2 alpha-induced abortion. Endocrinology 1980; 106:739-43. [PMID: 6243549 DOI: 10.1210/endo-106-3-739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
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Abstract
Specific binding of tritiated oxytocin to uterine receptors of pregnant rats increases dramatically at term and is maximal during labor. In mammary glands the increase in binding is gradual, reaching a maximum during the lactation period. Concomitant changes in the sensitivity of the uterus and mammary gland to oxytocin indicate that the receptor concentration is of functional significance. Oxytocin receptors, therefore, may regulate the response of the target organs to circulating oxytocin and thereby control the onset of labor and lactation. Ovarian steroids participate in the regulation of oxytocin receptors in a manner as yet unclarified.
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