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Rashki Ghaleno L, Pennisi CP, Shahverdi A, Dardmeh F, Alipour H, Rezazadeh Valojerdi M. Exploring the Role of Hyaluronic Acid in Reproductive Biology and Beyond: Applications in Assisted Reproduction and Tissue Engineering. Adv Biol (Weinh) 2024; 8:e2300621. [PMID: 38580620 DOI: 10.1002/adbi.202300621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
Hyaluronic acid (HA) plays a prominent role in various aspects of reproductive biology and assisted reproductive technologies (ART). This review describes the multifaceted influence of HA, ranging from primordial germ cell migration, ovarian follicle development, and ovulation in females to sperm structure, physiology, motility, and capacitation in males. In addition, HA also plays an important role in fertilization and promotes embryo implantation by mediating cellular adhesion and communication within the uterus. Against this physiological background, the review examines the current applications of HA in the context of ART. In addition, the article addresses the emerging field of reproductive tissue engineering, where HA-based hydrogels offer promising perspectives as they can support the development of mature oocytes and spermatogenesis in vitro. Overall, this review highlights the integral role of HA in the intricate mechanisms of reproductive biology and its growing importance for improving ART outcomes and the field of tissue engineering of the reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leila Rashki Ghaleno
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences and Advanced Medical Technologies, Royan Institute, ACECR, Tehran, 19395-4644, Iran
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, 19395-4644, Iran
| | - Cristian Pablo Pennisi
- Regenerative Medicine, Department of Health Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, 9260, Denmark
| | - Abdolhossein Shahverdi
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, 19395-4644, Iran
| | - Fereshteh Dardmeh
- Regenerative Medicine, Department of Health Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, 9260, Denmark
| | - Hiva Alipour
- Regenerative Medicine, Department of Health Science and Technology, Faculty of Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, 9260, Denmark
| | - Mojtaba Rezazadeh Valojerdi
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, 19395-4644, Iran
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, 14115-111, Iran
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Tchoukalova YD, Phung TN, Kennedy MM, Miranda-Grandjean D, Becquer E, Chen L, Zhang N, Dinu V, Wilson MA, Lott DG. Idiopathic Subglottic Stenosis Is Associated With More Frequent and Abnormal Squamous Metaplasia. Ann Otol Rhinol Laryngol 2024; 133:214-223. [PMID: 37740367 DOI: 10.1177/00034894231201016] [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: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Gain insights into the pathophysiology of idiopathic subglottic stenosis (iSGS) by investigating differences in transcriptome of subglottic mucosal tissue between patients with iSGS and controls, and between tracheal and subglottic tissue within patients. METHODS RNA sequencing was conducted on biopsied mucosal samples collected from subglottic and tracheal (in-patient control) regions in iSGS patients, and from subglottis in controls. The gene expression differences were validated on a protein level by (1) staining the tissue samples obtained from a second cohort of patients and controls; and (2) in vitro functional assays using primary subglottic epithelial cells from both iSGS patients and healthy donors. RESULTS We found 7 upregulated genes in the subglottic region of iSGS patients relative to both the tracheal mucosa and subglottic region of controls. A gene ontology enrichment analysis found that the epithelial cell differentiation and cornification pathways are significant, involving specifically 3 of the genes: involucrin (IVL), small proline rich protein 1B (SPRR1B), and keratin 16 (KRT16). Involvement of these pathways suggests squamous metaplasia of the epithelium. Histological analyses of epithelium in subglottic mucosal biopsies revealed squamous metaplasia in 41% of the samples from iSGS patients and in 25% from controls. Immunohistochemical evaluation of the samples presented with squamous epithelium revealed increased expression of the protein encoded by SPRR1B, hyperproliferative basal cells, shedding of apical layers, and accompanying lesions in iSGS compared to CTRL. Cultured primary subglottic epithelial cells from iSGS patients had higher proliferation rates compared to healthy donors and squamous metaplastic differentiation formed thinner epithelia with increased expression proteins encoded by INV, SPRR1B, and KRT16, suggesting intrinsic dysfunction of basal cells in iSGS. CONCLUSIONS Abnormal squamous differentiation of epithelial cells may contribute to the pathogenesis of iSGS. Patients having metaplastic epithelial phenotype may be sensitive to drugs that reverse it to a normal phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yourka D Tchoukalova
- Head and Neck Regenerative Medicine Laboratory, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Scottsdale, AZ, USA
| | - Tanya N Phung
- Center for Evolution and Medicine, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
- Faculty of Science, Complex Trait Genetics, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Maeve M Kennedy
- Head and Neck Regenerative Medicine Laboratory, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Scottsdale, AZ, USA
- Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Emanuel Becquer
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ, USA
- Contexture, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Longwen Chen
- Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Scottsdale, AZ, USA
| | - Nan Zhang
- Department of Quantitative Health Sciences, Mayo, AZ Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ, USA
| | - Valentin Dinu
- College of Health Solutions, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ, USA
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Arizona State University, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Melissa A Wilson
- Center for Evolution and Medicine, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
- School of Life Sciences, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
- Biodesign Institute, Arizona State University, Tempe, AZ, USA
| | - David G Lott
- Head and Neck Regenerative Medicine Laboratory, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Scottsdale, AZ, USA
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Division of Laryngology, Mayo Clinic Arizona, Phoenix, AZ, USA
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O'Connor RM, Scott ME, Rimel BJ. Vaginal Cuff Dehiscence in Transgender Patients After Minimally Invasive Hysterectomy. J Minim Invasive Gynecol 2024; 31:138-146. [PMID: 37925016 PMCID: PMC11129707 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmig.2023.10.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVE To compare rates of vaginal cuff dehiscence (VCD) in transgender patients with cisgender patients after minimally invasive hysterectomy (MIH). DESIGN We performed a single-surgeon, retrospective cohort analysis comparing the rates of VCD in patients undergoing MIH for gender affirmation with other indications (benign, malignant, prophylactic) with our study surgeon between January, 2015, and December, 2021. SETTING Major, urban, academic tertiary care hospital in the United States. PATIENTS 166 patients met inclusion criteria with 49 of those patients undergoing MIH (29.5%) for gender affirmation. Of the remaining 117 patients, 92 (78.6%) underwent MIH for cancer, 15 (12.8%) for prophylaxis, and 10 (8.5%) for benign indications. INTERVENTIONS Not applicable. MEASUREMENTS We assessed included patients for baseline demographics, presence of risk factors for VCD, details of index hysterectomy, and details of cuff dehiscence events. MAIN RESULTS Transgender patients tended to be younger at the time of surgery, but demographics were otherwise similar between both groups. Most transgender patients (n = 36, 73.5%) had both ovaries removed at the time of hysterectomy, 100% were on testosterone therapy pre- and postoperatively, and none used supplementary estrogen. Three of the 49 transgender patients (6.1%) experienced postoperative dehiscence of the vaginal cuff compared with 2 of the 117 cisgender patients (1.7%). This failed to reach statistical significance; however, our descriptive analysis showed that all cases of dehiscence in the cisgender group had identifiable precipitating factors (i.e., trauma). By comparison, all cases of dehiscence in the transgender group were spontaneous with few identifiable risk factors. CONCLUSION Transgender patients undergoing MIH may be at increased risk of VCD, although the rarity of this surgical complication precluded determination of statistical significance in our data set. We propose testosterone exposure as a possible risk factor for VCD, although we cannot exclude other factors, such as young age, as drivers of VCD in this population. Future studies of biospecimens are needed to evaluate for cellular differences in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reed M O'Connor
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology (Dr. O'Connor), Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Marla E Scott
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology (Drs. Scott and Rimel)
| | - B J Rimel
- Division of Gynecologic Oncology (Drs. Scott and Rimel).
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Escaffre O, Popov V, Hager E, Freiberg AN. Characterization of an air-liquid interface primary human vaginal epithelium to study Ebola virus infection and testing of antivirals. Antiviral Res 2023; 211:105551. [PMID: 36731656 PMCID: PMC10286122 DOI: 10.1016/j.antiviral.2023.105551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Ebola virus (EBOV) is the causative agent of the often-fatal Ebola virus disease (EVD) characterized by hemorrhagic fever in humans and non-human primates. Sexual transmission from male survivors has been at the origin of multiple outbreak flare-ups between 2015 and 2021. However, this route is still poorly understood and the resulting EVD from it is also understudied. To support epidemiological studies documenting sexual transmission to women, and as a transition from previously using monolayer vaginal epithelial cells (VK2/E6E7), we first determined the biological relevance of two similar air-liquid interface models of the human vaginal epithelium (VEC and VLC Epivaginal™) and then characterized their susceptibility to EBOV and virus-induced inflammation. Finally, we evaluated toxicity of Polyphenylene Carboxymethylene (PPCM) microbicide in VLC and reassessed its antiviral effect. As expected, the VEC, but also VLC model showed stratified layers including a lamina propria under an epithelial structure similar to the full thickness of the human vaginal epithelium. However, we could not detect the immune cells featured in the most relevant model (VLC) of the vaginal epithelium using the dendritic cell CD1a and CD11c markers. Consistent with our previous work using the VK2/E6E7 cell line, infectious virus was detected from the apical side of both primary human cell systems, but only when using a high infective dose, with titers remaining at a constant level of 103-4 pfu/ml over 7 days suggesting lasting infectious virus shedding. In addition, infection caused disruption of the epithelium of both models and virus antigen was found from the apical superficial layers down to the lamina propria suggesting full virus penetration and overall confirming the susceptibility of the human vaginal tissue for EBOV. Just like previously seen in VK2/E6E7 cells, VLC infection also caused significant increase in inflammatory markers including IL-6, IL-8, and IP-10 suggesting vaginitis which is again consistent with tissue lesions seen in non-human primates. Finally, both virus infection and virus-induced inflammatory response in VLC could be prevented by a single 5-min PPCM microbicide treatment prior infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivier Escaffre
- Department of Pathology, USA; Institute for Human Infections & Immunity and Sealy & Smith Foundation, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA.
| | - Vsevolod Popov
- Department of Pathology, USA; Center for Biodefense and Emerging Infectious Diseases, USA; Institute for Human Infections & Immunity and Sealy & Smith Foundation, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA
| | | | - Alexander N Freiberg
- Department of Pathology, USA; Center for Biodefense and Emerging Infectious Diseases, USA; Institute for Human Infections & Immunity and Sealy & Smith Foundation, University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston, TX, 77555, USA.
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Brownell D, Chabaud S, Bolduc S. Tissue Engineering in Gynecology. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232012319. [PMID: 36293171 PMCID: PMC9603941 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232012319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Female gynecological organ dysfunction can cause infertility and psychological distress, decreasing the quality of life of affected women. Incidence is constantly increasing due to growing rates of cancer and increase of childbearing age in the developed world. Current treatments are often unable to restore organ function, and occasionally are the cause of female infertility. Alternative treatment options are currently being developed in order to face the inadequacy of current practices. In this review, pathologies and current treatments of gynecological organs (ovaries, uterus, and vagina) are described. State-of-the-art of tissue engineering alternatives to common practices are evaluated with a focus on in vivo models. Tissue engineering is an ever-expanding field, integrating various domains of modern science to create sophisticated tissue substitutes in the hope of repairing or replacing dysfunctional organs using autologous cells. Its application to gynecology has the potential of restoring female fertility and sexual wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Brownell
- Centre de Recherche en Organogéneèse Expérimentale/LOEX, Regenerative Medicine Division, CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center, Québec, QC G1J 1Z4, Canada
| | - Stéphane Chabaud
- Centre de Recherche en Organogéneèse Expérimentale/LOEX, Regenerative Medicine Division, CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center, Québec, QC G1J 1Z4, Canada
| | - Stéphane Bolduc
- Centre de Recherche en Organogéneèse Expérimentale/LOEX, Regenerative Medicine Division, CHU de Québec-Université Laval Research Center, Québec, QC G1J 1Z4, Canada
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, CHU de Québec-Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 4G2, Canada
- Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Laval University, Québec, QC G1V 0A6, Canada
- Correspondence:
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Tyssen D, Hearps AC, Guntur K, Masson L, Cook S, Moulton SE, Ravel J, Bradshaw CS, Ayehunie S, Tachedjian G. The Impact of Over-The-Counter Lactic Acid Containing Vaginal Gels on the Integrity and Inflammatory State of the Vaginal Epithelium in vitro. FRONTIERS IN REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH 2022; 4:915948. [DOI: 10.3389/frph.2022.915948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The vaginal microbiome influences a wide range of health outcomes in women, where a microbiome dominated by Lactobacillus spp. is considered optimal and associated with reduced risk of pre-term birth and acquisition of sexually transmitted infections including HIV. Conversely, replacement of lactobacilli by non-optimal bacteria leads to the development of bacterial vaginosis, which is associated with increased risk of these outcomes. Lactobacilli produce the metabolite lactic acid (LA) which is a potent antibacterial and antiviral agent. The potential therapeutic benefits of LA have prompted the development of numerous over-the-counter LA-containing gels for use in the vagina, although a comprehensive analysis of the impact of these formulations on the cervicovaginal epithelium and pro-inflammatory cytokine/chemokine responses, has not been assessed. Here, we evaluated the properties of 11 over-the-counter gels, including 9 containing LA, marketed for use in the vagina. Ten of the 11 gels had an osmolality greater than vaginal fluid from women with Lactobacillus-dominated microbiota (370 ± 40 mOsmol/kg in women with Nugent score 0–3), with six gels that were hyperosmolal >2,000 mOsmol/kg. Using a reconstructed primary cell model of the vaginal epithelium, we found hyperosmolal gels had a detrimental impact on epithelial barrier integrity, resulting in substantial cellular toxicity (<10% viability as compared to untreated cells) and reduced epithelial barrier integrity [≈30% of untreated cells, assessed by transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER)]. Treatment of vaginal tissues with most of the gels elicited the production of pro-inflammatory factors including IL-1α (8 of 11) and IL-1β (10 of 11) which are associated with heightened risk of HIV acquisition in vivo. The majority of the OTC gels elicited moderate tissue damage as determined by histology. The detrimental effects of these gels on the human vaginal epithelium in vitro may predict compromised epithelial barrier integrity and genital inflammation in vivo, which has implications for sexual and reproductive health. This study highlights the importance of evaluating the impact of intravaginal products on the integrity and inflammatory status of the mucosal epithelium to avoid unfavorable off target effects.
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Jøraholmen MW, Damdimopoulou P, Acharya G, Škalko-Basnet N. Toxicity Assessment of Resveratrol Liposomes-in-Hydrogel Delivery System by EpiVaginal TM Tissue Model. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14061295. [PMID: 35745867 PMCID: PMC9231258 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14061295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The natural polyphenol resveratrol (RES) has shown great potential as an antimicrobial, including against microbes associated with vaginal infections. To fully exploit the activities of RES, an all-natural ingredients formulation for RES delivery at vaginal site has been developed, namely liposomes loaded with RES, incorporated into a chitosan hydrogel as secondary vehicle. Although considered non-toxic and safe on their own, the compatibility of the final formulation must be evaluated for its biocompatibility and non-irritancy to the vaginal mucosa. As a preclinical safety assessment, the impact of RES formulation on the tissue viability, the effect on barrier function and cell monolayer integrity, and cytotoxicity were evaluated using the cell-based vaginal tissue model, the EpiVaginal™ tissue. RES liposomes-in-hydrogel formulations neither affected the mitochondrial activity, nor the integrity of the cell monolayer in RES concentration up to 60 µg/mL. Moreover, the barrier function was maintained to a greater extent by RES in formulation, emphasizing the benefits of the delivery system. Additionally, none of the tested formulations expressed an increase in lactate dehydrogenase activity compared to the non-treated tissues. The evaluation of the RES delivery system suggests that it is non-irritant and biocompatible with vaginal tissue in vitro in the RES concentrations considered as therapeutic.
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Affiliation(s)
- May Wenche Jøraholmen
- Drug Transport and Delivery Research Group, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Universitetsveien 57, 9037 Tromsø, Norway;
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, SE-14186 Stockholm, Sweden; (P.D.); (G.A.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +47-776-23376
| | - Pauliina Damdimopoulou
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, SE-14186 Stockholm, Sweden; (P.D.); (G.A.)
| | - Ganesh Acharya
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, SE-14186 Stockholm, Sweden; (P.D.); (G.A.)
- Women’s Health and Perinatology Research Group, Department of Clinical Medicine, UiT The Arctic University of Norway and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of North Norway, Sykehusveien 38, 9019 Tromsø, Norway
| | - Nataša Škalko-Basnet
- Drug Transport and Delivery Research Group, Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Universitetsveien 57, 9037 Tromsø, Norway;
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Krakowsky Y, Potter E, Hallarn J, Monari B, Wilcox H, Bauer G, Ravel J, Prodger JL. The Effect of Gender-Affirming Medical Care on the Vaginal and Neovaginal Microbiomes of Transgender and Gender-Diverse People. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2022; 11:769950. [PMID: 35127550 PMCID: PMC8814107 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2021.769950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Transgender and gender diverse individuals may seek gender-affirming medical care, such as hormone therapy or surgery, to produce primary and/or secondary sex characteristics that are more congruent with their gender. Gender-affirming medical care for transmasculine individuals can include testosterone therapy, which suppresses circulating estrogen and can lead to changes in the vaginal epithelium that are reminiscent of the post-menopausal period in cisgender females. Among transfeminine individuals, gender-affirming medical care can include vaginoplasty, which is the surgical creation of a vulva and neovaginal canal, commonly using penile and scrotal skin. The effect of gender-affirming medical care on the vagina of transmasculine individuals and on the neovagina of transfeminine individuals is poorly characterized. This review summarizes what is known of the epithelium and local microbiota of the testosterone-exposed vagina and the neovagina. We focus on potential pathogens and determinants of gynecological health and identify key knowledge gaps for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yonah Krakowsky
- Division of Urology, Department of Surgery, Women’s College Hospital and Mount Sinai Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada,Transition Related Surgery, Department of Surgery, Women’s College Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Emery Potter
- Transition Related Surgery, Department of Surgery, Women’s College Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jason Hallarn
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Bern Monari
- Program in Molecular Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Hannah Wilcox
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Greta Bauer
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada
| | - Jacques Ravel
- Institute for Genome Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States,Department of Microbiology & Immunology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Jessica L. Prodger
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada,Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, ON, Canada,*Correspondence: Jessica L. Prodger,
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Kuan KKW, Saunders PTK. Female Reproductive Systems: Hormone Dependence and Receptor Expression. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2022; 1390:21-39. [PMID: 36107311 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-031-11836-4_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
The female reproductive system which consists of the ovaries, uterus (myometrium, endometrium), Fallopian tubes, cervix and vagina is exquisitely sensitive to the actions of steroid hormones. The ovaries play a key role in the synthesis of bioactive steroids (oestrogens, androgens, progestins) that act both within the tissue (intracrine/paracrine) as well as on other reproductive organs following release into the blood stream (endocrine action). Sex steroid receptors encoded by the oestrogen (ESR1, ESR2), progesterone (PR) and androgen (AR) receptor genes, which are members of the superfamily of ligand activated transcription factors are widely expressed within these tissues. These receptors play critical role(s) in regulation of cell proliferation, ovulation, endometrial receptivity, myometrial cell function and inflammatory cell infiltration. Our understanding of their importance has been informed by studies on human tissues and cells, which have employed immunohistochemistry as well as a wide range of molecular and genetic methods to identify which processes are dependent steroid ligand activation. The development of mice with targeted deletions of each of these receptors has provided complementary data that has extended our appreciation of cell-cell interactions in the fine tuning of reproductive tissue function. This large body of work has formed the basis of new and improved therapeutics to treat conditions such as infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin K W Kuan
- Centre for Inflammation Research, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
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Yang I, Lin I, Liang Y, Lin J, Chen T, Chen Z, Kuan C, Chi C, Li C, Wu H, Lin F. Development of di(2‐ethylhexyl) phthalate‐containing thioglycolic acid immobilized chitosan mucoadhesive gel as an alternative hormone therapy for menopausal syndrome. Bioeng Transl Med 2021; 7:e10267. [PMID: 35600649 PMCID: PMC9115706 DOI: 10.1002/btm2.10267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Menopausal syndrome includes the symptoms that most women experience owing to hormone changes after menopause. Although hormone replacement therapy is a common treatment for menopausal syndrome, there are still many side effects and challenges hindering research. In this study, thioglycolic acid (TGA)‐immobilized chitosan mucoadhesive gel was synthesized by a new method of low concentration of 1,4‐butanediol diglycidyl ether (BDDE) would encapsulate di(2‐ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) as an alternative hormone replacement therapy for menopausal syndrome. The efficacies of the DEHP‐containing TGA‐chitosan gel (CT‐D) were confirmed and evaluated by materials characterization and in vitro study. Results showed that CT‐D was not cytotoxic and had better mucoadhesive ability than chitosan. The animal model was constructed 1 month after bilateral ovariectomy in SD rats. CT‐D was administered intravaginally every 3 days. Bodyweight, wet weight of the uterus and vagina, vaginal smears, histology, blood element analysis, and serological analysis was used to assess the ability of the material to relieve menopausal syndrome. The results indicated that the combination of the sustained release of DEHP and mucoadhesive TGA‐immobilized chitosan allows the developed CT‐D to relieve the menopausal syndrome through low concentrations of DEHP, which falls in the safety level of the tolerable daily intake of DEHP.
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Affiliation(s)
- I‐Hsuan Yang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering College of Medicine and College of Engineering, National Taiwan University Taipei Taiwan
| | - I‐En Lin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering College of Medicine and College of Engineering, National Taiwan University Taipei Taiwan
| | - Ya‐Jyun Liang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering College of Medicine and College of Engineering, National Taiwan University Taipei Taiwan
| | - Jhih‐Ni Lin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering College of Medicine and College of Engineering, National Taiwan University Taipei Taiwan
| | - Tzu‐Chien Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering College of Medicine and College of Engineering, National Taiwan University Taipei Taiwan
| | - Zhi‐Yu Chen
- Department of Biomedical Engineering College of Medicine and College of Engineering, National Taiwan University Taipei Taiwan
| | - Che‐Yung Kuan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering College of Medicine and College of Engineering, National Taiwan University Taipei Taiwan
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Nanomedicine National Health Research Institutes Zhunan, Miaoli County Taiwan
| | - Chih‐Ying Chi
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Nanomedicine National Health Research Institutes Zhunan, Miaoli County Taiwan
- PhD Program in Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine National Chung Hsing University Taichung Taiwan
| | - Chi‐Han Li
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Nanomedicine National Health Research Institutes Zhunan, Miaoli County Taiwan
- PhD Program in Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine National Chung Hsing University Taichung Taiwan
| | - Hung‐Ming Wu
- Department of Neurology Changhua Christian Hospital Changhua Taiwan
| | - Feng‐Huei Lin
- Department of Biomedical Engineering College of Medicine and College of Engineering, National Taiwan University Taipei Taiwan
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Nanomedicine National Health Research Institutes Zhunan, Miaoli County Taiwan
- PhD Program in Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine National Chung Hsing University Taichung Taiwan
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Stejskalová A, Vankelecom H, Sourouni M, Ho MY, Götte M, Almquist BD. In vitro modelling of the physiological and diseased female reproductive system. Acta Biomater 2021; 132:288-312. [PMID: 33915315 DOI: 10.1016/j.actbio.2021.04.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2020] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The maladies affecting the female reproductive tract (FRT) range from infections to endometriosis to carcinomas. In vitro models of the FRT play an increasingly important role in both basic and translational research, since the anatomy and physiology of the FRT of humans and other primates differ significantly from most of the commonly used animal models, including rodents. Using organoid culture to study the FRT has overcome the longstanding hurdle of maintaining epithelial phenotype in culture. Both ECM-derived and engineered materials have proved critical for maintaining a physiological phenotype of FRT cells in vitro by providing the requisite 3D environment, ligands, and architecture. Advanced materials have also enabled the systematic study of factors contributing to the invasive metastatic processes. Meanwhile, microphysiological devices make it possible to incorporate physical signals such as flow and cyclic exposure to hormones. Going forward, advanced materials compatible with hormones and optimised to support FRT-derived cells' long-term growth, will play a key role in addressing the diverse array of FRT pathologies and lead to impactful new treatments that support the improvement of women's health. STATEMENT OF SIGNIFICANCE: The female reproductive system is a crucial component of the female anatomy. In addition to enabling reproduction, it has wide ranging influence on tissues throughout the body via endocrine signalling. This intrinsic role in regulating normal female biology makes it susceptible to a variety of female-specific diseases. However, the complexity and human-specific features of the reproductive system make it challenging to study. This has spurred the development of human-relevant in vitro models for helping to decipher the complex issues that can affect the reproductive system, including endometriosis, infection, and cancer. In this Review, we cover the current state of in vitro models for studying the female reproductive system, and the key role biomaterials play in enabling their development.
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Wen J, Gao X, Zhang Q, Sahito B, Si H, Li G, Ding Q, Wu W, Nepovimova E, Jiang S, Wang L, Kuca K, Guo D. Optimization of Tilmicosin-Loaded Nanostructured Lipid Carriers Using Orthogonal Design for Overcoming Oral Administration Obstacle. Pharmaceutics 2021; 13:303. [PMID: 33669090 PMCID: PMC7996536 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics13030303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Revised: 01/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Tilmicosin (TMS) is widely used to treat bacterial infections in veterinary medicine, but the clinical effect is limited by its poor solubility, bitterness, gastric instability, and intestinal efflux transport. Nanostructured lipid carriers (NLCs) are nowadays considered to be a promising vector of therapeutic drugs for oral administration. In this study, an orthogonal experimental design was applied for optimizing TMS-loaded NLCs (TMS-NLCs). The ratios of emulsifier to mixed lipids, stearic acid to oleic acid, drugs to mixed lipids, and cold water to hot emulsion were selected as the independent variables, while the hydrodynamic diameter (HD), drug loading (DL), and entrapment efficiency (EE) were the chosen responses. The optimized TMS-NLCs had a small HD, high DL, and EE of 276.85 ± 2.62 nm, 9.14 ± 0.04%, and 92.92 ± 0.42%, respectively. In addition, a low polydispersity index (0.231 ± 0.001) and high negative zeta potential (-31.10 ± 0.00 mV) indicated the excellent stability, which was further demonstrated by uniformly dispersed spherical nanoparticles under transmission electron microscopy. TMS-NLCs exhibited a slow and sustained release behavior in both simulated gastric juice and intestinal fluid. Furthermore, MDCK-chAbcg2/Abcb1 cell monolayers were successfully established to evaluate their absorption efficiency and potential mechanism. The results of biodirectional transport showed that TMS-NLCs could enhance the cellular uptake and inhibit the efflux function of drug transporters against TMS in MDCK-chAbcg2/Abcb1 cells. Moreover, the data revealed that TMS-NLCs could enter the cells mainly via the caveolae/lipid raft-mediated endocytosis and partially via macropinocytosis. Furthermore, TMS-NLCs showed the same antibacterial activity as free TMS. Taken together, the optimized NLCs were the promising oral delivery carrier for overcoming oral administration obstacle of TMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia Wen
- Center for Veterinary Drug Research and Evaluation, MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, 1 Weigang, Nanjing 210095, China; (J.W.); (X.G.); (Q.Z.); (B.S.); (S.J.); (L.W.)
| | - Xiuge Gao
- Center for Veterinary Drug Research and Evaluation, MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, 1 Weigang, Nanjing 210095, China; (J.W.); (X.G.); (Q.Z.); (B.S.); (S.J.); (L.W.)
| | - Qian Zhang
- Center for Veterinary Drug Research and Evaluation, MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, 1 Weigang, Nanjing 210095, China; (J.W.); (X.G.); (Q.Z.); (B.S.); (S.J.); (L.W.)
| | - Benazir Sahito
- Center for Veterinary Drug Research and Evaluation, MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, 1 Weigang, Nanjing 210095, China; (J.W.); (X.G.); (Q.Z.); (B.S.); (S.J.); (L.W.)
| | - Hongbin Si
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, 100 Daxuedong Road, Nanning 530004, China; (H.S.); (G.L.)
| | - Gonghe Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, 100 Daxuedong Road, Nanning 530004, China; (H.S.); (G.L.)
| | - Qi Ding
- School of Pharmacy, Bengbu Medical College, 2600 Donghai Avenue, Bengbu 233030, China;
| | - Wenda Wu
- Center for Veterinary Drug Research and Evaluation, MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, 1 Weigang, Nanjing 210095, China; (J.W.); (X.G.); (Q.Z.); (B.S.); (S.J.); (L.W.)
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Kralove, 50003 Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic;
| | - Eugenie Nepovimova
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Kralove, 50003 Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic;
| | - Shanxiang Jiang
- Center for Veterinary Drug Research and Evaluation, MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, 1 Weigang, Nanjing 210095, China; (J.W.); (X.G.); (Q.Z.); (B.S.); (S.J.); (L.W.)
| | - Liping Wang
- Center for Veterinary Drug Research and Evaluation, MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, 1 Weigang, Nanjing 210095, China; (J.W.); (X.G.); (Q.Z.); (B.S.); (S.J.); (L.W.)
| | - Kamil Kuca
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Hradec Kralove, 50003 Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic;
| | - Dawei Guo
- Center for Veterinary Drug Research and Evaluation, MOE Joint International Research Laboratory of Animal Health and Food Safety, College of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, 1 Weigang, Nanjing 210095, China; (J.W.); (X.G.); (Q.Z.); (B.S.); (S.J.); (L.W.)
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Cadena I, Chen A, Arvidson A, Fogg KC. Biomaterial strategies to replicate gynecological tissue. Biomater Sci 2021; 9:1117-1134. [DOI: 10.1039/d0bm01240h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Properties of native tissue can inspire biomimetic in vitro models of gynecological disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines Cadena
- Department of Chemical
- Biological
- and Environmental Engineering
- Oregon State University
- Corvallis
| | - Athena Chen
- Department of Pathology
- School of Medicine
- Oregon Health & Science University
- Portland
- USA
| | - Aaron Arvidson
- Department of Chemical
- Biological
- and Environmental Engineering
- Oregon State University
- Corvallis
| | - Kaitlin C. Fogg
- Department of Chemical
- Biological
- and Environmental Engineering
- Oregon State University
- Corvallis
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14
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McKinnon KE, Getsios S, Woodruff TK. Distinct follicular and luteal transcriptional profiles in engineered human ectocervical tissue dependent on menstrual cycle phase. Biol Reprod 2020; 103:487-496. [PMID: 32614039 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2018] [Revised: 04/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
To investigate genomic pathways that may influence physiology and infectivity during the menstrual cycle, RNA sequence analysis was performed on patient-matched engineered ectocervical tissue after follicular and luteal phase (LP) hormone treatments. We developed distinct cellular, molecular, and biological profiles in ectocervical epithelium dependent on the menstrual cycle phase. Follicular phase hormones were associated with proliferation, transcription, and cell adhesion, while LP samples expressed genes involved in immune cell recruitment, inflammation, and protein modifications. Additionally, our analysis revealed mucins not previously reported in ectocervical tissue, which could play an important role in fertility and disease prevention. This study provides insight into the phenomenon of increased LP vulnerability to infection and identifies potential targets for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly E McKinnon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Spiro Getsios
- Department of Dermatology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Teresa K Woodruff
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
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15
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McKinnon KE, Sensharma R, Williams C, Ravix J, Getsios S, Woodruff TK. Development of human ectocervical tissue models with physiologic endocrine and paracrine signaling†. Biol Reprod 2020; 103:497-507. [PMID: 32401296 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2019] [Revised: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 05/12/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
There is a shortage of research models that adequately represent the unique mucosal environment of human ectocervix, limiting development of new therapies for treating infertility, infection, or cancer. We developed three microphysiologic human ectocervix models to study hormone action during homeostasis. First, we reconstructed ectocervix using decellularized extracellular matrix scaffolds, which supported cell integration and could be clinically useful. Secondly, we generated organotypic systems consisting of ectocervical explants co-cultured with murine ovaries or cycling exogenous hormones, which mimicked human menstrual cycles. Finally, we engineered ectocervix tissue consisting of tissue-specific stromal-equivalents and fully-differentiated epithelium that mimicked in vivo physiology, including squamous maturation, hormone response, and mucin production, and remained viable for 28 days in vitro. The localization of differentiation-dependent mucins in native and engineered tissue was identified for the first time, which will allow increased efficiency in mucin targeting for drug delivery. In summary, we developed and characterized three microphysiologic human ectocervical tissue models that will be useful for a variety of research applications, including preventative and therapeutic treatments, drug and toxicology studies, and fundamental research on hormone action in a historically understudied tissue that is critical for women's health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelly E McKinnon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Rhitwika Sensharma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Chloe Williams
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jovanka Ravix
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Spiro Getsios
- Department of Dermatology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago IL, USA
| | - Teresa K Woodruff
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL, USA
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16
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In Vitro Organotypic Systems to Model Tumor Microenvironment in Human Papillomavirus (HPV)-Related Cancers. Cancers (Basel) 2020; 12:cancers12051150. [PMID: 32375253 PMCID: PMC7281263 DOI: 10.3390/cancers12051150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 05/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the well-known role of chronic human papillomavirus (HPV) infections in causing tumors (i.e., all cervical cancers and other human malignancies from the mucosal squamous epithelia, including anogenital and oropharyngeal cavity), its persistence is not sufficient for cancer development. Other co-factors contribute to the carcinogenesis process. Recently, the critical role of the underlying stroma during the HPV life cycle and HPV-induced disease have been investigated. The tumor stroma is a key component of the tumor microenvironment (TME), which is a specialized entity. The TME is dynamic, interactive, and constantly changing—able to trigger, support, and drive tumor initiation, progression, and metastasis. In previous years, in vitro organotypic raft cultures and in vivo genetically engineered mouse models have provided researchers with important information on the interactions between HPVs and the epithelium. Further development for an in-depth understanding of the interaction between HPV-infected tissue and the surrounding microenvironment is strongly required. In this review, we critically describe the HPV-related cancers modeled in vitro from the simplified ‘raft culture’ to complex three-dimensional (3D) organotypic models, focusing on HPV-associated cervical cancer disease platforms. In addition, we review the latest knowledge in the field of in vitro culture systems of HPV-associated malignancies of other mucosal squamous epithelia (anogenital and oropharynx), as well as rare cutaneous non-melanoma associated cancer.
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Interaction of Gardnerella vaginalis and Vaginolysin with the Apical versus Basolateral Face of a Three-Dimensional Model of Vaginal Epithelium. Infect Immun 2019; 87:IAI.00646-18. [PMID: 30692180 DOI: 10.1128/iai.00646-18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 01/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies have implicated Gardnerella vaginalis as an important etiological agent in bacterial vaginosis (BV). It produces a cholesterol-dependent cytolysin, vaginolysin (VLY). In this study, we sought to characterize the interaction between vaginal epithelium, G. vaginalis, and VLY using EpiVaginal tissues from MatTek. These tissues are three-dimensional and have distinct apical and basolateral sides, enabling comparison of the effects of G. vaginalis and VLY following exposure to either side. We measured cytotoxicity, cytokine production, and bacterial growth, following apical versus basolateral exposure. G. vaginalis exhibited more-rapid growth in coculture with the tissue model when it was exposed to the apical side. VLY permeabilized cells on the basolateral side of the tissues but failed to permeabilize apical epithelial cells. Cytokine secretion in response to VLY and G. vaginalis also depended on the polarity of exposure. VLY did not cause significant changes in cytokine levels when exposed apically. Apical tissue challenge by G. vaginalis appeared to dampen the inflammatory response, as decreases in granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) (6.6-fold), RANTES (14.8-fold), and interferon gamma inducible protein 10 kDa (IP-10) (53-fold) and an increase in interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1ra) (5-fold) were observed. In vivo, G. vaginalis normally colonizes the apical face of the vaginal epithelium. Results from this study suggest that while G. vaginalis may grow on the apical face of the vaginal epithelium, its VLY toxin does not target these cells in this model. This phenomenon could have important implications regarding colonization of the vagina by G. vaginalis and may suggest an explanation for the lack of an overt immune response to this organism.
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18
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The contraceptive medroxyprogesterone acetate, unlike norethisterone, directly increases R5 HIV-1 infection in human cervical explant tissue at physiologically relevant concentrations. Sci Rep 2019; 9:4334. [PMID: 30867477 PMCID: PMC6416361 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-40756-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2018] [Accepted: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The intramuscular progestin-only injectable contraceptive, depo-medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA-IM), is more widely used in Sub-Saharan Africa than another injectable contraceptive, norethisterone enanthate (NET-EN). Epidemiological data show a significant 1.4-fold increased risk of HIV-1 acquisition for DMPA-IM usage, while no such association is shown from limited data for NET-EN. We show that MPA, unlike NET, significantly increases R5-tropic but not X4-tropic HIV-1 replication ex vivo in human endocervical and ectocervical explant tissue from pre-menopausal donors, at physiologically relevant doses. Results support a mechanism whereby MPA, unlike NET, acts via the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) to increase HIV-1 replication in cervical tissue by increasing the relative frequency of CD4+ T cells and activated monocytes. We show that MPA, unlike NET, increases mRNA expression of the CD4 HIV-1 receptor and CCR5 but not CXCR4 chemokine receptors, via the GR. However, increased density of CD4 on CD3+ cells was not observed with MPA by flow cytometry of digested tissue. Results suggest that DMPA-IM may increase HIV-1 acquisition in vivo at least in part via direct effects on cervical tissue to increase founder R5-tropic HIV-1 replication. Our findings support differential biological mechanisms and disaggregation of DMPA-IM and NET-EN regarding HIV-1 acquisition risk category for use in high risk areas.
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19
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Immunomodulatory Effects of 17 β-Estradiol on Epithelial Cells during Bacterial Infections. J Immunol Res 2018; 2018:6098961. [PMID: 30246035 PMCID: PMC6136541 DOI: 10.1155/2018/6098961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2018] [Revised: 06/26/2018] [Accepted: 07/24/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The innate immune system can function under hormonal control. 17β-Estradiol (E2) is an important sexual hormone for the reproductive cycle of mammals, and it has immunomodulatory effects on epithelial cells, which are the first line of defense against incoming bacteria. E2 regulates various pathophysiological processes, including the response to infection in epithelial cells, and its effects involve the regulation of innate immune signaling pathways, which are mediated through estrogen receptors (ERs). E2 modulates the expression of inflammatory and antimicrobial elements such as cytokines and antimicrobial peptides. The E2 effects on epithelial cells during bacterial infections are characterized by an increase in the production of antimicrobial peptides and by the diminution of the inflammatory response to abrogate proinflammatory cytokine induction by bacteria. Here, we review several novel molecular mechanisms through which E2 regulates the innate immune response of epithelial cells against bacterial infections.
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Abstract
The last estimated annual incidence of Trichomonas vaginalis worldwide exceeds that of chlamydia and gonorrhea combined. This critical review updates the state of the art on advances in T. vaginalis diagnostics and strategies for treatment and prevention of trichomoniasis. In particular, new data on treatment outcomes for topical administration of formulations are reviewed and discussed.
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21
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Application of standard cell cultures and 3D in vitro tissue models as an effective tool in drug design and development. Pharmacol Rep 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pharep.2017.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
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Vidmar J, Chingwaru C, Chingwaru W. Mammalian cell models to advance our understanding of wound healing: a review. J Surg Res 2017; 210:269-280. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2016.10.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2015] [Revised: 07/12/2016] [Accepted: 10/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
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Orabi H, Saba I, Rousseau A, Bolduc S. Novel three-dimensional autologous tissue-engineered vaginal tissues using the self-assembly technique. Transl Res 2017; 180:22-36. [PMID: 27543901 DOI: 10.1016/j.trsl.2016.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2015] [Revised: 07/17/2016] [Accepted: 07/23/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Many diseases necessitate the substitution of vaginal tissues. Current replacement therapies are associated with many complications. In this study, we aimed to create bioengineered neovaginas with the self-assembly technique using autologous vaginal epithelial (VE) and vaginal stromal (VS) cells without the use of exogenous materials and to document the survival and incorporation of these grafts into the tissues of nude female mice. Epithelial and stromal cells were isolated from vaginal biopsies. Stromal cells were driven to form collagen sheets, 3 of which were superimposed to form vaginal stromas. VE cells were seeded on top of these stromas and allowed to mature in an air-liquid interface. The vaginal equivalents were implanted subcutaneously in female nude mice, which were sacrificed after 1 and 2 weeks after surgery. The in vitro and animal-retrieved equivalents were assessed using histologic, functional, and mechanical evaluations. Vaginal equivalents could be handled easily. VE cells formed a well-differentiated epithelial layer with a continuous basement membrane. The equivalent matrix was composed of collagen I and III and elastin. The epithelium, basement membrane, and stroma were comparable to those of native vaginal tissues. The implanted equivalents formed mature vaginal epithelium and matrix that were integrated into the mice tissues. Using the self-assembly technique, in vitro vaginal tissues were created with many functional and biological similarities to native vagina without any foreign material. They formed functional vaginal tissues after in vivo animal implantation. It is appropriate for vaginal substitution and disease modeling for infectious studies, vaginal applicants, and drug testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hazem Orabi
- Centre de recherche en organogénèse expérimentale de l'Université Laval/LOEX, Faculté de médecine, Axe Médecine Régénératrice, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Canada; Department of Surgery, Université Laval, Québec, Canada; Department of Urology, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt.
| | - Ingrid Saba
- Centre de recherche en organogénèse expérimentale de l'Université Laval/LOEX, Faculté de médecine, Axe Médecine Régénératrice, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Canada; Department of Surgery, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Alexandre Rousseau
- Centre de recherche en organogénèse expérimentale de l'Université Laval/LOEX, Faculté de médecine, Axe Médecine Régénératrice, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Canada; Department of Surgery, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Stéphane Bolduc
- Centre de recherche en organogénèse expérimentale de l'Université Laval/LOEX, Faculté de médecine, Axe Médecine Régénératrice, Centre de Recherche du CHU de Québec, Université Laval, Québec, Canada; Department of Surgery, Université Laval, Québec, Canada.
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Li T, Ma Y, Zhang H, Yan P, Huo L, Hu Y, Chen X, Li T, Zhang M, Liu Z. Differential Regulation of Morphology and Estrogen Receptor-Alpha Expression in the Vagina of Ovariectomized Adult Virgin Rats by Estrogen Replacement: A Histological Study. Int J Endocrinol 2016; 2016:1093512. [PMID: 27642295 PMCID: PMC5013240 DOI: 10.1155/2016/1093512] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2016] [Accepted: 07/31/2016] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background. To determine the exact role of estrogen in vaginal tissue morphology and estrogen receptor-alpha (ERα) distribution in the vagina, which remains controversial. Methods. Sixty rats were randomly categorized: sham-operated (sham), ovariectomy (OVX), and four estradiol treatments (estradiol valerate at 0.4, 0.8, 1.6, and 3.2 mg/kg/day) for 2 weeks. Thereafter, vaginal samples were biopsied from the distal- and proximal-half portions. The percentage of ERα-immunoreactive cells and the ERα score were quantified using immunohistochemistry to assess changes in ERα expression and distribution. Results. OVX induced significant vaginal atrophy and organic index. Estrogen-replacement therapy (ERT) reversed vaginal atrophy. The vaginal distal-half areas showed lower ERα% than the proximal-half areas. The ERα% increased sharply 4 weeks after OVX, especially in the epithelial layer (P = 0.023). ERT elicited different degrees of reductions in tissues after the 2-week treatment, but the ERα% in only the epithelium recovered in parallel with that in the sham group (P = 0.001). The OVX group showed higher ERα histological scores than the sham group, and the distal-half area changed more evidently than the proximal-half area. ERα expression was nearly unchanged after ERT (P > 0.05). Conclusions. ERT is effective for treating obesity and vulvovaginal atrophy caused by hypoestrogenism and advancing age in menopausal women but cannot recover the distribution and expression of ERα.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ting Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University First Hospital, 8 Xishiku Street, Beijing 100034, China
| | - Yuanyuan Ma
- Animal Center Laboratory, Peking University First Hospital, 8 Xishiku Street, Beijing 100034, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Department of Pathology, Peking University First Hospital, 8 Xishiku Street, Beijing 100034, China
| | - Ping Yan
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Peking University First Hospital, 8 Xishiku Street, Beijing 100034, China
| | - Lili Huo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University First Hospital, 8 Xishiku Street, Beijing 100034, China
| | - Yongyan Hu
- Animal Center Laboratory, Peking University First Hospital, 8 Xishiku Street, Beijing 100034, China
| | - Xi Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University First Hospital, 8 Xishiku Street, Beijing 100034, China
| | - Ting Li
- Department of Pathology, Peking University First Hospital, 8 Xishiku Street, Beijing 100034, China
| | - Miao Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University First Hospital, 8 Xishiku Street, Beijing 100034, China
- *Miao Zhang:
| | - Zhaohui Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University First Hospital, 8 Xishiku Street, Beijing 100034, China
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