1
|
Khazaal NM, Alghetaa HF, Al-Shuhaib MBS, Al-Thuwaini TM, Alkhammas AH. A novel deleterious oxytocin variant is associated with the lower twinning ratio in Awassi ewes. Anim Biotechnol 2023; 34:3404-3415. [PMID: 36449364 DOI: 10.1080/10495398.2022.2152038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to assess the possible association of oxytocin (OXT) gene with reproductive traits in two groups of Awassi ewes that differ in their reproductive potentials. Sheep were genotyped using PCR-single-stranded conformation polymorphism approach. Three genotypes were detected in exon 2, CC, CA, and AA, and a novel SNP was identified with a missense effect on oxytocin (c.188C > A → p.Arg55Leu). A significant (p < 0.01) association of p.Arg55Leu with the twinning rate was found as ewes with AA and CA genotypes exhibited, respectively a lower twinning ratio than those with the wild-type CC genotype. The deleterious impact of p.Arg55Leu was demonstrated by all in silico tools that were utilized to assess the effect of this variant on the structure, function, and stability of oxytocin. Molecular docking showed that p.Arg55Leu caused a dramatic alteration in the binding of oxytocin with its receptor and reduced the number of interacted amino acids between them. Our study suggests that ewes with AA and CA genotypes showed a lower reproductive performance due to the presence of p.Arg55Leu, which caused damaging impacts on oxytocin and is binding with the OXT receptor. The utilization of the p.Arg55Leu could be useful for improving Awassi reproductive potential.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Neam M Khazaal
- Department of Physiology, Biochemistry and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - Hasan F Alghetaa
- Department of Physiology, Biochemistry and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq
| | | | - Tahreer M Al-Thuwaini
- Department of Animal Production, College of Agriculture, Al-Qasim Green University, Al-Qasim, Iraq
| | - Ahmed H Alkhammas
- Department of Animal Production, College of Agriculture, Al-Qasim Green University, Al-Qasim, Iraq
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Mota-Rojas D, Marcet-Rius M, Domínguez-Oliva A, Martínez-Burnes J, Lezama-García K, Hernández-Ávalos I, Rodríguez-González D, Bienboire-Frosini C. The Role of Oxytocin in Domestic Animal’s Maternal Care: Parturition, Bonding, and Lactation. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13071207. [PMID: 37048463 PMCID: PMC10093258 DOI: 10.3390/ani13071207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2023] [Revised: 03/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin (OXT) is one of the essential hormones in the birth process; however, estradiol, prolactin, cortisol, relaxin, connexin, and prostaglandin are also present. In addition to parturition, the functions in which OXT is also involved in mammals include the induction of maternal behavior, including imprinting and maternal care, social cognition, and affiliative behavior, which can affect allo-parental care. The present article aimed to analyze the role of OXT and the neurophysiologic regulation of this hormone during parturition, how it can promote or impair maternal behavior and bonding, and its importance in lactation in domestic animals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Mota-Rojas
- Neurophysiology, Behavior and Animal Welfare Assessment, DPAA, Xochimilco Campus, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Mexico City 04960, Mexico
| | - Míriam Marcet-Rius
- Department of Animal Behaviour and Welfare, Research Institute in Semiochemistry and Applied Ethology (IRSEA), 84400 Apt, France
| | - Adriana Domínguez-Oliva
- Neurophysiology, Behavior and Animal Welfare Assessment, DPAA, Xochimilco Campus, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Mexico City 04960, Mexico
| | - Julio Martínez-Burnes
- Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Autónoma de Tamaulipas, Victoria City 87000, Mexico
| | - Karina Lezama-García
- Neurophysiology, Behavior and Animal Welfare Assessment, DPAA, Xochimilco Campus, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Mexico City 04960, Mexico
| | - Ismael Hernández-Ávalos
- Facultad de Estudios Superiores Cuautitlán, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico (UNAM), Cuautitlán 54714, Mexico
| | - Daniela Rodríguez-González
- Neurophysiology, Behavior and Animal Welfare Assessment, DPAA, Xochimilco Campus, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Mexico City 04960, Mexico
| | - Cécile Bienboire-Frosini
- Department of Molecular Biology and Chemical Communication, Research Institute in Semiochemistry and Applied Ethology (IRSEA), 84400 Apt, France
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Xie Z, Feng J, Cai T, McCarthy R, Eschbach Ii MD, Wang Y, Zhao Y, Yi Z, Zang K, Yuan Y, Hu X, Li F, Liu Q, Das A, England SK, Hu H. Estrogen metabolites increase nociceptor hyperactivity in a mouse model of uterine pain. JCI Insight 2022; 7:149107. [PMID: 35420999 PMCID: PMC9220826 DOI: 10.1172/jci.insight.149107] [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] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Pain emanating from the female reproductive tract is notoriously difficult to be treated and the prevalence of transient pelvic pain has been placed as high as 70-80% in women surveyed. Although sex hormones, especially estrogen, are thought to underlie enhanced pain perception in females, the underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms are not completely understood. Here we show that the pain-initiating TRPA1 channel is required for pain-related behaviors in a mouse model of estrogen-induced uterine pain in ovariectomized female mice. Surprisingly, 2- and 4-hydroxylated estrogen metabolites (HEMs) in the estrogen hydroxylation pathway, but not estrone, estradiol and 16-HEMs, directly increase nociceptor hyperactivity through TRPA1 and TRPV1 channels, and picomolar concentrations of 2- and 4-hydroxylation estrone (OHE1) can sensitize TRPA1 channel function. Moreover, both TRPA1 and TRPV1 are expressed in uterine-innervating primary nociceptors and their expressions are increased in the estrogen-induced uterine pain model. Importantly, pretreatment of 2- or 4-OHE1 recapitulates estrogen-induced uterine pain-like behaviors and intraplantar injections of 2- and 4-OHE1 directly produce a TRPA1-dependent mechanical hypersensitivity. Our findings demonstrate that TRPA1 is critically involved in estrogen-induced uterine pain-like behaviors, which may provide a potential drug target for treating female reproductive tract pain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zili Xie
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, United States of America
| | - Jing Feng
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, United States of America
| | - Tao Cai
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Ronald McCarthy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, United States of America
| | - Mark D Eschbach Ii
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, United States of America
| | - Yuhui Wang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yonghui Zhao
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, United States of America
| | - Zhihua Yi
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, United States of America
| | - Kaikai Zang
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, United States of America
| | - Yi Yuan
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, United States of America
| | - Xueming Hu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, United States of America
| | - Fengxian Li
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, United States of America
| | - Qin Liu
- Department of Anesthesiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, United States of America
| | - Aditi Das
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, United States of America
| | - Sarah K England
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, United States of America
| | - Hongzhen Hu
- Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Protein expression profiling of rat uteruses with primary dysmenorrhea syndrome. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2021; 305:139-147. [DOI: 10.1007/s00404-021-06233-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
|
5
|
Somjit M, Surojananon J, Kongwattanakul K, Kasemsiri C, Sirisom M, Prawannoa K, Thepsuthammarat K, Komwilaisak R. Comparison of Low Dose versus High Dose of Oxytocin for Initiating Uterine Contraction During Cesarean Delivery: A Randomized, Controlled, Non-Inferiority Trial. Int J Womens Health 2020; 12:667-673. [PMID: 32904472 PMCID: PMC7455765 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s260073] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Oxytocin is used for initiating uterine contraction and preventing postpartum hemorrhage during caesarean delivery. Using a lower dosage of oxytocin may lower the risk of adverse effects while still being effective in stimulating initial uterine contraction. We aimed to compare the effectiveness and side effects of the standard 10 IU bolus of oxytocin with those of a 5 IU bolus during caesarean delivery. Patients and Methods We enrolled women in a randomized, double-blind, study comparing intravenous injections of high-dose (10 IU) and low-dose (5 IU) oxytocin administered after clamping of the umbilical cord. The primary outcome was adequate uterine contraction within the first 3 mins after administration. Secondary outcomes included uterine tone, use of additional uterotonic agents, additional obstetrics procedures, and oxytocin-related adverse events. Results A total of 155 women underwent randomization, with 78 in the low-dose group and 77 in the high-dose group. The proportion of women with adequate uterine contraction during the first 3 mins was 84.6% in the low-dose group and 77.9% in the high-dose group (relative risk, 1.09; 95% CI, 0.93 to 1.26). Methylergonovine maleate was used in 14.1% of cases in the low-dose group and 36.4% in the high-dose group (relative risk, 0.40; 95% CI, 0.22 to 0.73). The necessity for additional obstetric procedures, estimated blood loss >500 mL, neonatal outcomes, and oxytocin-related adverse effects did not differ significantly between the two groups. Conclusion The 5 IU bolus of oxytocin was noninferior to the standard 10 IU bolus of oxytocin for initiating adequate uterine contraction, required fewer additional uterotonic agents, and led to fewer oxytocin-related adverse events.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monsicha Somjit
- Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Jaruta Surojananon
- Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Kiattisak Kongwattanakul
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Cattleya Kasemsiri
- Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Monthira Sirisom
- Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | - Khuantipa Prawannoa
- Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| | | | - Ratana Komwilaisak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Szczepanska-Sadowska E, Cudnoch-Jedrzejewska A, Wsol A. The role of oxytocin and vasopressin in the pathophysiology of heart failure in pregnancy and in fetal and neonatal life. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2020; 318:H639-H651. [PMID: 32056469 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00484.2019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Pregnancy and early life create specific psychosomatic challenges for the mother and child, such as changes in hemodynamics, resetting of the water-electrolyte balance, hypoxia, pain, and stress, that all play an important role in the regulation of the release of oxytocin and vasopressin. Both of these hormones regulate the water-electrolyte balance and cardiovascular functions, maturation of the cardiovascular system, and cardiovascular responses to stress. These aspects may be of particular importance in a state of emergency, such as hypertension in the mother or severe heart failure in the child. In this review, we draw attention to a broad spectrum of actions exerted by oxytocin and vasopressin in the pregnant mother and the offspring during early life. To this end, we discuss the following topics: 1) regulation of the secretion of oxytocin and vasopressin and expression of their receptors in the pregnant mother and child, 2) direct and indirect effects of oxytocin and vasopressin on the cardiovascular system in the healthy mother and fetus, and 3) positive and negative consequences of altered secretion of oxytocin and vasopressin in the mother with cardiovascular pathology and in the progeny with heart failure. The present survey provides evidence that moderate stimulation of the oxytocin and vasopressin receptors plays a beneficial role in the healthy pregnant mother and fetus; however, under pathophysiological conditions the inappropriate action of these hormones exerts several negative effects on the cardiovascular system of the mother and progeny and may potentially contribute to the pathophysiology of heart failure in early life.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Szczepanska-Sadowska
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Laboratory of Center for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - A Cudnoch-Jedrzejewska
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Laboratory of Center for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - A Wsol
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Physiology, Laboratory of Center for Preclinical Research, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Molefe K, Mwanza M. Variability of serum reproductive hormones in cows presenting various reproductive conditions in semi-arid areas of the North West Province, South Africa. Vet World 2020; 13:502-507. [PMID: 32367956 PMCID: PMC7183473 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2020.502-507] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: Hormones play a significant role in supporting reproductive processes. Predisposition to metabolic disorders may result from biological alterations in the neurohormonal system, thus leading to impaired immune function and poor reproductive performance. The aim of this study was to determine the reproductive hormonal profile in cows with reproductive conditions in semi-arid areas of the North West Province, South Africa, to establish possible correlations between different conditions and the hormonal profile. Materials and Methods: Blood samples were collected from cows in different communal areas of Mafikeng. Convenience sampling was used to collect samples for the study. Blood samples were collected cows experiencing dystocia (n=50), retained placenta (n=13), downer cow syndrome (n=34), vaginal prolapse (n=16), and abortions (n=69), following cases reported at the Animal Health Hospital of the North-West University, Mafikeng Campus. Descriptive statistics, such as mean and standard deviations, were used to describe the distribution of hormone levels across reproductive conditions. p-value less than the significance level was set at 5% (p<0.05). Results: Data obtained revealed significantly higher estradiol in abortion (1122.99±71.99 pg/ml), downer cow syndrome (781.32±135.7 pg/ml), and dystocia (862.09±123.44 pg/ml). Oxytocin (OT) differed significantly in cows with dystocia (370.50±71.66 pg/ml) and abortion (574.73±60.65 pg/ml). Significantly low progesterone (Pg) was observed in abortion (2.45±1.509 ng/ml) and dystocia (8.59±0.402 ng/ml) while increased prostaglandin alpha was observed in cows with vaginal prolapse and abortion. Conclusion: The findings highlight an increase in serum estradiol and OT in aborting cows. Low Pg and estradiol in cows with vaginal prolapses and retained placenta were noted. An association was seen between downer cow syndrome and high concentrations of estradiol and Pg. Prostaglandin alpha may increase in cases of vaginal prolapse and abortion. Hormonal alterations were observed and may contribute to the incidences of different reproductive conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K. Molefe
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, Mafikeng Campus, North-West University, Private Bag X 2046 Mmabatho 2735, South Africa
| | - M. Mwanza
- Department of Animal Health, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, Mafikeng Campus, North-West University, Private Bag X 2046 Mmabatho 2735, South Africa
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Sun L, Liu L, Zong S, Wang Z, Zhou J, Xu Z, Ding G, Xiao W, Kou J. Traditional Chinese medicine Guizhi Fuling capsule used for therapy of dysmenorrhea via attenuating uterus contraction. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2016; 191:273-279. [PMID: 27340106 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2016.06.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2016] [Revised: 06/10/2016] [Accepted: 06/16/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Guizhi Fuling formula, a well-known Chinese herbal formula recorded in the Eastern Han Dynasty, is composed of Cinnamomum cassia (L.) J.Presl (Cassia bark), Poria cocos (Schw.) Wolf (Poria), Paeonia suffruticosa andrews (Moutan Cortex), Paeonia lactiflora Pall (Herbaceous peony), and Amygdalus persica L.(Persicae Semen). It has clinical efficacy of activating blood circulation to dissipate blood stasis and is commonly used for the treatment of primary dysmenorrhea. However, its therapeutic mechanism has not been clearly elucidated. The aim of this study is to reveal molecular mechanisms of action using in vivo and in vitro experimental models. MATERIAL AND METHODS The ICR mouse uterine contraction was induced by oxytocin exposure following estradiol benzoate pretreatment. Mice were given GZFLC (0.54, 1.08g/kg) by gavage. The levels of NO, PGF2α and Ca(2+) in uterine tissue were determined according to instructions. Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and oxytocin receptor (OTR) proteins in uterine tissue were assessed by Western Blot. Mouse isolated uterus strips were mounted in tissue organ baths containing Locke's solution. The contractile responses were recorded with Power Lab recording system. The effect of GZFLC on spontaneous uterine contraction, and uterine contraction induced by oxytocin, PGF2α was observed. Myometrial cells were exposed to oxytocin (5U/L) to induce calcium release, and the effect of GZFLC and its components (PL, PGG, CA) on intracellular Ca(2+) was analyzed with fluorometry imaging. RESULTS In vivo study demonstrated that GZFLC significantly reduced oxytocin-induced writhing responses with a maximal inhibition of 55%. It also decreased the levels of NO, PGF2α and Ca(2+) in oxytocin-induced mice uterine tissue. Moreover, Western blot analysis showed that COX-2 and OTR expressions in uterine tissue of dysmenorrhea mice were significantly reduced. GZFLC inhibited spontaneous uterus contractions in a dose-dependent manner, and the IC50 value was 0.99mg/ml. The IC50 values of GZFLC on PGF2α, oxytocin-induced contractions were 1.45mg/ml, 3.53mg/ml, respectively. Further in vitro studies indicated that GZFLC and its components (PL, PGG, CA) could restrain intracellular calcium levels in favour of uteri relaxation. CONCLUSIONS Both in vivo and in vitro results indicated that GZFLC possessed a significant spasmolytic effect on uterine tetanic contraction. The present study provides in vivo and in vitro experimental evidence to support the use of GZFLC for the clinical treatment of primary dysmenorrheal (PD).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lan Sun
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory for TCM Evaluation and Translational Research, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211198, PR China; State Key Laboratory of New-tech For Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutic Process, Jiangsu Kanion Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Lianyungang, Jiangsu 222001, PR China.
| | - Lina Liu
- State Key Laboratory of New-tech For Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutic Process, Jiangsu Kanion Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Lianyungang, Jiangsu 222001, PR China
| | - Shaobo Zong
- State Key Laboratory of New-tech For Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutic Process, Jiangsu Kanion Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Lianyungang, Jiangsu 222001, PR China
| | - Zhengzhong Wang
- State Key Laboratory of New-tech For Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutic Process, Jiangsu Kanion Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Lianyungang, Jiangsu 222001, PR China
| | - Jun Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of New-tech For Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutic Process, Jiangsu Kanion Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Lianyungang, Jiangsu 222001, PR China
| | - Zhiliang Xu
- State Key Laboratory of New-tech For Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutic Process, Jiangsu Kanion Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Lianyungang, Jiangsu 222001, PR China
| | - Gang Ding
- State Key Laboratory of New-tech For Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutic Process, Jiangsu Kanion Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Lianyungang, Jiangsu 222001, PR China
| | - Wei Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of New-tech For Chinese Medicine Pharmaceutic Process, Jiangsu Kanion Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Lianyungang, Jiangsu 222001, PR China.
| | - Junping Kou
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory for TCM Evaluation and Translational Research, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 211198, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Abstract
Primary dysmenorrhea (PD) is a common gynecological disorder. Hitherto, animal models
which recapitulate clinical features of PD have not been fully established. We aimed to
examine whether a pain model in mice could mimic the clinic features of PD. After
pretreated with estradiol benzoate (1 mg/kg/day) intraperitoneally (i.p.) for 3
consecutive days, non-pregnant female Imprinting Control Region mice (6–8 weeks old) was
injected with 0.4 U of oxytocin to induce the stretching or writhing response which was
recorded for a time period of 30 min. During the writhing period, the uterine artery blood
flow alterations were examined by Doppler ultrasound detection. After writhing test, the
uterine morphological changes were observed by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining
histopathology. In addition, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit was used to measure the
levels of prostaglandins F2α/prostaglandins E2
(PGF2α/PGE2) and TXB2 (a metabolite of
TXA2)/6-keto-PGF1α (a metabolite of PGI2) in the
uterine tissue homogenates and plasma, respectively. Western blot analyses were performed
to determine the expressions of oxytocin receptor (OTR), beta2-adrenergic receptor
(beta2-AR), and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) in uterine, which are responsible for the uterine
contraction. The writhing response only occurred in the estrogen pretreated female mice.
The area of uterine myometrium significantly decreased along with the increased thickness
in the oxytocin-induced estrogen pretreated mice model. The uterine artery blood flow
velocity dropped, while the pulsatility index and resistance index slightly increased
after the injection of oxytocin. The PGF2α/PGE2 level significantly
increased and the plasma TXB2/6-keto-PGF1α level significantly
enhanced. Compared with the control group, the uterine histopathology demonstrated
moderate to severe edema of endometrium lamina propria. In consistent with the uterine
morphological changes, a significant reduction of beta2-AR and a significant increase of
OTR and COX-2 in the uterine tissue were observed. The writhing response was caused by the
abnormal contraction of uterus. The uterine spasm and ischemia changes of oxytocin-induced
estrogen pretreated female mice model were similar to the pathology of human PD. We
reported an in vivo mice model, which can be used to study PD and for
clinical therapeutic evaluations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lu Yang
- Department of Complex Prescription of TCM, China Pharmaceutical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, P.R.China
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Veiga GAL, Milazzotto MP, Nichi M, Lúcio CF, Silva LCG, Angrimani DSR, Vannucchi CI. Gene expression of estrogen and oxytocin receptors in the uterus of pregnant and parturient bitches. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015; 48:339-43. [PMID: 25714892 PMCID: PMC4418364 DOI: 10.1590/1414-431x20143969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2014] [Accepted: 10/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
In the canine species, the precise mechanisms of pregnancy maintenance and the initiation of parturition are not completely understood. The expression of genes encoding the receptors for estrogen (ERα mRNA) and oxytocin (OTR mRNA) was studied in the endometrium and myometrium during pregnancy and parturition in dogs. Real-time PCR was performed to quantify the levels of ERα mRNA and OTR mRNA in the uterus of bitches during early (up to 20 days of gestation), mid (20 to 40 days) and late pregnancy (41 to 60 days), and parturition (first stage of labor). All tissues expressed ERα and OTR mRNA, and are thus possibly able to respond to eventual estrogen and oxytocin hormonal stimuli. No statistically significant differences in the expression of ERα mRNA were verified in the endometrium and myometrium throughout pregnancy and parturition, but expression of OTR mRNA increased at both parturition and late pregnancy. We concluded that the increase of endometrial and myometrial OTR mRNA expression in dogs is not an event dependent on estrogenic stimulation. Moreover, the contractility response of the canine uterus to oxytocin begins during pregnancy and maintains myometrial activity. The expression of OTR mRNA in canine uterine tissues varied over time, which supports an interpretation that the sensitivity and response to hormone therapy varies during the course of pregnancy and labor. Further studies are needed to elucidate the factors underlying the synthesis of uterine oxytocin receptors and the possible role of ERβ rather than ERα in the uterine tissues during pregnancy and parturition in dogs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G A L Veiga
- Departamento de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - M P Milazzotto
- Centro de Ciências Naturais e Humanas, Universidade Federal do ABC, Santo André, SP, Brasil
| | - M Nichi
- Departamento de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - C F Lúcio
- Departamento de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - L C G Silva
- Departamento de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - D S R Angrimani
- Departamento de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - C I Vannucchi
- Departamento de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Brunton PJ, Russell JA, Hirst JJ. Allopregnanolone in the brain: protecting pregnancy and birth outcomes. Prog Neurobiol 2014; 113:106-36. [PMID: 24012715 DOI: 10.1016/j.pneurobio.2013.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2013] [Revised: 08/12/2013] [Accepted: 08/25/2013] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
A successful pregnancy requires multiple adaptations in the mother's brain that serve to optimise foetal growth and development, protect the foetus from adverse prenatal programming and prevent premature delivery of the young. Pregnancy hormones induce, organise and maintain many of these adaptations. Steroid hormones play a critical role and of particular importance is the progesterone metabolite and neurosteroid, allopregnanolone. Allopregnanolone is produced in increasing amounts during pregnancy both in the periphery and in the maternal and foetal brain. This review critically examines a role for allopregnanolone in both the maternal and foetal brain during pregnancy and development in protecting pregnancy and birth outcomes, with particular emphasis on its role in relation to stress exposure at this time. Late pregnancy is associated with suppressed stress responses. Thus, we begin by considering what is known about the central mechanisms in the maternal brain, induced by allopregnanolone, that protect the foetus(es) from exposure to harmful levels of maternal glucocorticoids as a result of stress during pregnancy. Next we discuss the central mechanisms that prevent premature secretion of oxytocin and consider a role for allopregnanolone in minimising the risk of preterm birth. Allopregnanolone also plays a key role in the foetal brain, where it promotes development and is neuroprotective. Hence we review the evidence about disruption to neurosteroid production in pregnancy, through prenatal stress or other insults, and the immediate and long-term adverse consequences for the offspring. Finally we address whether progesterone or allopregnanolone treatment can rescue some of these deficits in the offspring.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paula J Brunton
- Division of Neurobiology, The Roslin Institute, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Scotland, UK.
| | - John A Russell
- Centre for Integrative Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Scotland, UK
| | - Jonathan J Hirst
- Mothers and Babies Research Centre, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, N.S.W., Australia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Prevost M, Zelkowitz P, Tulandi T, Hayton B, Feeley N, Carter CS, Joseph L, Pournajafi-Nazarloo H, Yong Ping E, Abenhaim H, Gold I. Oxytocin in pregnancy and the postpartum: relations to labor and its management. Front Public Health 2014; 2:1. [PMID: 24479112 PMCID: PMC3902863 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2014.00001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2013] [Accepted: 01/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine variations in endogenous oxytocin levels in pregnancy and postpartum state. We also explored the associations between delivery variables and oxytocin levels. A final sample of 272 mothers in their first trimester of pregnancy was included for the study. Blood samples were drawn during the first trimester and third trimester of pregnancy and at 8 weeks postpartum. Socio-demographic data were collected at each time point and medical files were consulted for delivery details. In most women, levels of circulating oxytocin increased from the first to third trimester of pregnancy followed by a decrease in the postpartum period. Oxytocin levels varied considerably between individuals, ranging from 50 pg/mL to over 2000 pg/mL. Parity was the main predictor of oxytocin levels in the third trimester of pregnancy and of oxytocin level changes from the first to the third trimester of pregnancy. Oxytocin levels in the third trimester of pregnancy predicted a self-reported negative labor experience and increased the chances of having an epidural. Intrapartum exogenous oxytocin was positively associated with levels of oxytocin during the postpartum period. Our exploratory results suggest that circulating oxytocin levels during the third trimester of pregnancy may predict the type of labor a woman will experience. More importantly, the quantity of intrapartum exogenous oxytocin administered during labor predicted plasma oxytocin levels 2 months postpartum, suggesting a possible long-term effect of this routine intervention, the consequences of which are largely unknown.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marie Prevost
- Departments of Psychiatry and Philosophy, McGill University , Montreal, QC , Canada
| | - Phyllis Zelkowitz
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University , Montreal, QC , Canada
| | - Togas Tulandi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University , Montreal, QC , Canada
| | - Barbara Hayton
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University , Montreal, QC , Canada
| | - Nancy Feeley
- Lady Davis Institute, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University , Montreal, QC , Canada
| | - C Sue Carter
- Department of Psychiatry, University of North Carolina , Chapel Hill, NC , USA
| | - Lawrence Joseph
- Division of Clinical Epidemiology, McGill University , Montreal, QC , Canada
| | | | - Erin Yong Ping
- Departments of Psychiatry and Philosophy, McGill University , Montreal, QC , Canada
| | - Haim Abenhaim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University , Montreal, QC , Canada
| | - Ian Gold
- Departments of Psychiatry and Philosophy, McGill University , Montreal, QC , Canada
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Telgmann R, Bathgate RAD, Jaeger S, Tillmann G, Ivell R. Transcriptional regulation of the bovine oxytocin receptor gene. Biol Reprod 2003; 68:1015-26. [PMID: 12604656 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.102.008961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The oxytocin receptor (OTR) is expressed in the cow uterus at high levels at estrus and at term of pregnancy. This expression appears to be controlled mostly at the transcriptional level and correlates with increasing estrogen concentration and progesterone withdrawal. Approximately 3200 base pairs of the upstream region of the bovine OTR gene were cloned and analyzed using a combination of bioinformatic, electrophoretic mobility shift (EMSA), and transfection analyses. Using nuclear proteins from high- and low-expressing tissues, EMSA indicated no significant quantitative or qualitative changes in specific DNA-protein binding, suggesting that transcription is probably controlled by signalling systems targeting constitutive factors. Using various cell types, including primary and immortalized ruminant endometrial epithelial cells, as hosts for transfection of promoter-reporter constructs showed that endogenous activity resided only in the longest, i.e., 3.2-kb, construct but not in those shorter than 1.0 kb. While estrogen appears to be important in vivo, no effect of estradiol was found on any construct directly; only when the longest 3.2-kb construct was used in combination with some cotransfected steroid receptor cofactors, e.g., SRC1e, was an estradiol-dependent effect observed. A putative interferon-responsive element (IRE) was found at approximately -2,400 from the transcription start site. This element was shown to bind mouse IRF1 and IRF2 as well as similar proteins from bovine endometrial and myometrial nuclear extracts. This element also responded to these factors when cotransfected into various cell types. The bovine equivalents to IRF1 and IRF2 were molecularly cloned from endometrial tissue and shown to be expressed in a temporal fashion, supporting the role of interferon-tau in maternal recognition of pregnancy. Of many factors tested or analyzed, these components of the IFN system are the only ones found to significantly influence the transcription of the bovine OTR gene.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ralph Telgmann
- Institute for Hormone and Fertility Research University of Hamburg, 22529 Hamburg, Germany
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Fuchs AR, Graddy LG, Kowalski AA, Fields MJ. Oxytocin induces PGE2 release from bovine cervical mucosa in vivo. Prostaglandins Other Lipid Mediat 2002; 70:119-29. [PMID: 12428683 DOI: 10.1016/s0090-6980(02)00017-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Oxytocin receptor (OTR) concentrations in bovine cervical mucosa rise steeply a few days before estrus to high concentrations and fall rapidly after estrus. To study the physiological role of these OTR, the effect of OT on the release of PGE, from the cervical mucosa of periestrous cows in vivo was determined by inserting bags made of dialysis tubing containing isooncotic saline solution in the endocervix for two 2-h periods, a fresh bag for each period. During the first period no treatment was given, during the second period OT (100 IU) or saline was injected i.m. PGE2 content in the second bag was significantly greater in OT-treated cows than in saline-treated cows. In a second experiment cervical resistance to stretch, achieved by distention of a balloon inside the cervical canal, was measured in periestrous cows before and 10 h after i.m. injection of OT, or endocervical application of 2.5mg PGE1 in a jelly, or the inactive jelly. A significant reduction in the resistance was achieved with both OT and PGE1; in the doses given the effect of PGE1 was longer lasting than that of OT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A R Fuchs
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cornell University Medical College, New York, NY 10128, USA.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|