1
|
Faustino M, Pereira JO, Pereira AM, Oliveira AS, Ferreira CMH, Pereira CF, Durão J, Pintado ME, Carvalho AP. Vaginal prevention of Candida albicans: synergistic effect of lactobacilli and mannan oligosaccharides (MOS). Appl Microbiol Biotechnol 2024; 108:73. [PMID: 38194142 PMCID: PMC10776728 DOI: 10.1007/s00253-023-12909-2] [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: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) affects approximately 30-50% of women at least once during their lifetime, causing uncomfortable symptoms and limitations in their daily quality of life. Antifungal therapy is not very effective, does not prevent recurrencies and usually causes side effects. Therefore, alternative therapies are urgently needed. The goal of this work was to investigate the potential benefits of using mannan oligosaccharides (MOS) extracts together with a Lactobacillus sp. pool, composed by the most significant species present in the vaginal environment, to prevent infections by Candida albicans. Microbial growth of isolated strains of the main vaginal lactobacilli and Candida strains was assessed in the presence of MOS, to screen their impact upon growth. A pool of the lactobacilli was then tested against C. albicans in competition and prophylaxis studies; bacterial and yeast cell numbers were quantified in specific time points, and the above-mentioned studies were assessed in simulated vaginal fluid (SVF). Finally, adhesion to vaginal epithelial cells (HeLa) was also evaluated, once again resorting to simultaneous exposure (competition) or prophylaxis assays, aiming to measure the effect of MOS presence in pathogen adherence. Results demonstrated that MOS extracts have potential to prevent vaginal candidiasis in synergy with vaginal lactobacilli, with improved results than those obtained when using lactobacilli alone. KEY POINTS: Potential benefits of MOS extracts with vaginal lactobacilli to prevent C. albicans infections. MOS impacts on growth of vaginal lactobacilli pool and C. albicans in SVF. MOS extracts in synergy with L. crispatus inhibit C. albicans adhesion in HeLa cells.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Margarida Faustino
- Universidade Católica Portuguesa, CBQF- Centro de Biotecnologia E Química Fina - Laboratório Associado, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Rua Diogo Botelho 1327, 4169-005, Porto, Portugal
| | - Joana Odila Pereira
- Universidade Católica Portuguesa, CBQF- Centro de Biotecnologia E Química Fina - Laboratório Associado, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Rua Diogo Botelho 1327, 4169-005, Porto, Portugal.
- Amyris Bio Products Portugal Unipessoal Lda, Porto, Portugal.
| | - Ana Margarida Pereira
- Universidade Católica Portuguesa, CBQF- Centro de Biotecnologia E Química Fina - Laboratório Associado, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Rua Diogo Botelho 1327, 4169-005, Porto, Portugal
- Amyris Bio Products Portugal Unipessoal Lda, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana Sofia Oliveira
- Universidade Católica Portuguesa, CBQF- Centro de Biotecnologia E Química Fina - Laboratório Associado, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Rua Diogo Botelho 1327, 4169-005, Porto, Portugal
| | - Carlos M H Ferreira
- Universidade Católica Portuguesa, CBQF- Centro de Biotecnologia E Química Fina - Laboratório Associado, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Rua Diogo Botelho 1327, 4169-005, Porto, Portugal
- Amyris Bio Products Portugal Unipessoal Lda, Porto, Portugal
| | - Carla F Pereira
- Universidade Católica Portuguesa, CBQF- Centro de Biotecnologia E Química Fina - Laboratório Associado, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Rua Diogo Botelho 1327, 4169-005, Porto, Portugal
| | - Joana Durão
- Universidade Católica Portuguesa, CBQF- Centro de Biotecnologia E Química Fina - Laboratório Associado, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Rua Diogo Botelho 1327, 4169-005, Porto, Portugal
- Amyris Bio Products Portugal Unipessoal Lda, Porto, Portugal
| | - Manuela E Pintado
- Universidade Católica Portuguesa, CBQF- Centro de Biotecnologia E Química Fina - Laboratório Associado, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Rua Diogo Botelho 1327, 4169-005, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ana P Carvalho
- Universidade Católica Portuguesa, CBQF- Centro de Biotecnologia E Química Fina - Laboratório Associado, Escola Superior de Biotecnologia, Rua Diogo Botelho 1327, 4169-005, Porto, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Saleh RO, Salahdin OD, Ahmad I, Bansal P, Kaur H, Deorari M, Hjazi A, Abosaoda MK, Mohammed IH, Jawad MA. An updated study of the relationship between bacterial infections and women's immune system, focusing on bacterial compositions with successful pregnancy. J Reprod Immunol 2024; 165:104283. [PMID: 38991487 DOI: 10.1016/j.jri.2024.104283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2024] [Revised: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024]
Abstract
Genital tract infections can cause a variety of harmful health outcomes, including endometritis, bacterial vaginosis, and pelvic inflammatory disease, in addition to infertility. Anaerobic bacteria, such as Gardnerella vaginalis, Megasphaera spp., and Atopobium vaginae, are more commonly identified in cases of bacterial vaginosis than lactobacilli. It is unknown how the microorganisms that cause pelvic inflammatory diseases and endometritis enter the uterus. Both prospective and retrospective research have connected pelvic inflammatory disorders, chronic endometritis, and bacterial vaginosis to infertility. Similar to bacterial vaginosis, endometritis-related infertility is probably caused by a variety of factors, such as inflammation, immune system recognition of sperm antigens, bacterial toxins, and a higher risk of STDs. Preconception care for symptomatic women may include diagnosing and treating pelvic inflammatory disease, chronic endometritis, and bacterial vaginosis before conception to optimize the results of both natural and assisted reproduction.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Raed Obaid Saleh
- Department of Medical Laboratory Techniques, Al-Maarif University College, Al-Anbar, Iraq
| | | | - Irfan Ahmad
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, College of Applied Medical Science, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Pooja Bansal
- Department of Biotechnology and Genetics, Jain (Deemed-to-be) University, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560069, India; Department of Allied Healthcare and Sciences, Vivekananda Global University, Jaipur, Rajasthan 303012, India
| | - Harpreet Kaur
- School of Basic & Applied Sciences, Shobhit University, Gangoh, Uttar Pradesh 247341, India; Department of Health & Allied Sciences, Arka Jain University, Jamshedpur, Jharkhand 831001, India
| | - Mahamedha Deorari
- Uttaranchal Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Uttaranchal University, Dehradun, India
| | - Ahmed Hjazi
- Department of Medical Laboratory, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Al-Kharj 11942, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Munther Kadhim Abosaoda
- College of Pharmacy, the Islamic University, Najaf, Iraq; College of Pharmacy, the Islamic University of Al Diwaniyah, Al Diwaniyah, Iraq; College of Pharmacy, the Islamic University of Babylon, Al Diwaniyah, Iraq
| | | | - Mohammed Abed Jawad
- Department of Medical Laboratories Technology, Al-Nisour University College, Baghdad, Iraq
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Deng ZM, Dai FF, Wang RQ, Deng HB, Yin TL, Cheng YX, Chen GT. Organ-on-a-chip: future of female reproductive pathophysiological models. J Nanobiotechnology 2024; 22:455. [PMID: 39085921 PMCID: PMC11290169 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-024-02651-w] [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: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
The female reproductive system comprises the internal and external genitalia, which communicate through intricate endocrine pathways. Besides secreting hormones that maintain the female secondary sexual characteristics, it also produces follicles and offspring. However, the in vitro systems have been very limited in recapitulating the specific anatomy and pathophysiology of women. Organ-on-a-chip technology, based on microfluidics, can better simulate the cellular microenvironment in vivo, opening a new field for the basic and clinical research of female reproductive system diseases. This technology can not only reconstruct the organ structure but also emulate the organ function as much as possible. The precisely controlled fluidic microenvironment provided by microfluidics vividly mimics the complex endocrine hormone crosstalk among various organs of the female reproductive system, making it a powerful preclinical tool and the future of pathophysiological models of the female reproductive system. Here, we review the research on the application of organ-on-a-chip platforms in the female reproductive systems, focusing on the latest progress in developing models that reproduce the physiological functions or disease features of female reproductive organs and tissues, and highlighting the challenges and future directions in this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Min Deng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, China
| | - Fang-Fang Dai
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, China
| | - Rui-Qi Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, China
| | - Hong-Bing Deng
- Hubei International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Sustainable Resource and Energy, Hubei Key Laboratory of Biomass Resource Chemistry and Environmental Biotechnology, School of Resource and Environmental Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, China
| | - Tai-Lang Yin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, China.
| | - Yan-Xiang Cheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, China.
| | - Gan-Tao Chen
- Department of Gastroenterology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, Hubei, 430060, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Han YL, Li XY, Li J, Xiao ZN, Chen J, Yang J. Vaginal microbiome dysbiosis as a novel noninvasive biomarker for detection of chronic endometritis in infertile women. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2024. [PMID: 38985003 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.15779] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2024] [Revised: 06/19/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify the vaginal microbial signature in women with chronic endometritis (CE) and investigate the potential of vaginal microbiome characterization as a novel diagnostic tools for CE. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted to compare the characteristics of the vaginal microbiome in 98 women who underwent endometrial biopsy for routine clinical inspection of infertility (49 women diagnosed with CE and 49 with non-CE). The vaginal microbiome was analyzed using 16S ribosomal RNA gene amplicon sequencing. The study included an analysis of diversity, bacterial abundance, and microbial function. In addition, microbial markers were identified, and a CE classifier was developed. RESULTS The relative abundances of genera, including Bifidobacterium, Prevotella and Gardnerella, were found to be different between the two groups. Analysis of the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathways reported differential expression in metabolism-related pathways in the two groups. We identified four microbial markers of CE (Enterobacter, Prevotella, Faecalibacterium, and Phascolarctobacterium) and developed a predictive classifier for diagnosing CE, achieving an area under the curve of 83.26%. CONCLUSION The results of the current study revealed that, compared with the non-CE controls, patients with CE have a different vaginal microbiota, highlighting the diagnostic significance of the vaginal microbiome as a promising noninvasive biomarker in detecting CE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yi-Ling Han
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University and Hubei Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development, Wuhan, China
| | - Xue-Yao Li
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University and Hubei Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development, Wuhan, China
| | - Jie Li
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University and Hubei Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhuo-Ni Xiao
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University and Hubei Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development, Wuhan, China
| | - Jiao Chen
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University and Hubei Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development, Wuhan, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University and Hubei Clinic Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Embryonic Development, Wuhan, China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Silva B, Marques EF, Gomes AC. Recent advances in in vitro models simulating the female genital tract toward more effective intravaginal therapeutic delivery. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2024; 21:1007-1027. [PMID: 39001669 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2024.2380338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Intravaginal drug delivery has emerged as a promising avenue for treating a spectrum of systemic and local female genital tract (FGT) conditions, using biomaterials as carriers or scaffolds for targeted and efficient administration. Much effort has been made to understand the natural barriers of this route and improve the delivery system to achieve an efficient therapeutic response. AREAS COVERED In this review, we conducted a comprehensive literature search using multiple databases (PubMed Scopus Web of Science Google Scholar), to discuss the potential of intravaginal therapeutic delivery, as well as the obstacles unique to this route. The in vitro cell models of the FGT and how they can be applied to probing intravaginal drug delivery are then analyzed. We further explore the limitations of the existing models and the possibilities to make them more promising for delivery studies or biomaterial validation. Complementary information is provided by in vitro acellular techniques that may shed light on mucus-drug interaction. EXPERT OPINION Advances in 3D models and cell cultures have enhanced our understanding of the FGT, but they still fail to replicate all variables. Future research should aim to use complementary methods, ensure stability, and develop consistent protocols to improve therapy evaluation and create better predictive in vitro models for women's health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bruna Silva
- CBMA (Centre of Molecular and Environmental Biology), Department of Biology, Campus of Gualtar, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
- CIQUP, Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Eduardo F Marques
- CIQUP, Departamento de Química e Bioquímica, Faculdade de Ciências, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Andreia C Gomes
- CBMA (Centre of Molecular and Environmental Biology), Department of Biology, Campus of Gualtar, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Zou H, Boboltz A, Cheema Y, Song D, Cahn D, Duncan GA. Synthetic mucus barrier arrays as a nanoparticle formulation screening platform. RSC PHARMACEUTICS 2024; 1:218-226. [PMID: 38899149 PMCID: PMC11185047 DOI: 10.1039/d3pm00057e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
A mucus gel layer lines the luminal surface of tissues throughout the body to protect them from infectious agents and particulates. As a result, nanoparticle drug delivery systems delivered to these sites may become trapped in mucus and subsequently cleared before they can reach target cells. As such, optimizing the properties of nanoparticle delivery vehicles, such as their surface chemistry and size, is essential to improving their penetration through the mucus barrier. In previous work, we developed a mucin-based hydrogel that has viscoelastic properties like that of native mucus which can be further tailored to mimic specific mucosal tissues and disease states. Using this biomimetic hydrogel system, a 3D-printed array containing synthetic mucus barriers was created that is compatible with a 96-well plate enabling its use as a high-throughput screening platform for nanoparticle drug delivery applications. To validate this system, we evaluated several established design parameters to determine their impact on nanoparticle penetration through synthetic mucus barriers. Consistent with the literature, we found nanoparticles of smaller size and coated with a protective PEG layer more efficiently penetrated through synthetic mucus barriers. In addition, we evaluated a mucolytic (tris(2-carboxyethyl) phosphine, TCEP) for use as a permeation enhancer for mucosal drug delivery. In comparison to N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), we found TCEP significantly improved nanoparticle penetration through a disease-like synthetic mucus barrier. Overall, our results establish a new high-throughput screening approach using synthetic mucus barrier arrays to identify promising nanoparticle formulation strategies for drug delivery to mucosal tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Harry Zou
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland College Park MD 20742 USA
| | - Allison Boboltz
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland College Park MD 20742 USA
| | - Yahya Cheema
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland College Park MD 20742 USA
| | - Daniel Song
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland College Park MD 20742 USA
| | - Devorah Cahn
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland College Park MD 20742 USA
| | - Gregg A Duncan
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland College Park MD 20742 USA
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Subi MTM, Selvasudha N, Vasanthi HR. Vaginal drug delivery system: A promising route of drug administration for local and systemic diseases. Drug Discov Today 2024; 29:104012. [PMID: 38705512 DOI: 10.1016/j.drudis.2024.104012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2024] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024]
Abstract
Scientists around the globe have done cutting-edge research to facilitate the delivery of poorly absorbed drugs via various routes of administration and different delivery systems. The vaginal route of administration has emerged as a promising mode of drug delivery, attributed to its anatomy and physiology. Novel drug delivery systems overcome the demerits of conventional systems via nanobiotechnology. This review will focus on the disorders associated with women that are currently targeted by vaginal drug delivery systems. In addition, it will provide insights into innovations in drug formulations for the general benefit of women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Tamil Mani Subi
- Department of Biotechnology, Pondicherry University, Kalapet, Puducherry, India
| | | | - Hannah R Vasanthi
- Department of Biotechnology, Pondicherry University, Kalapet, Puducherry, India.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Izadifar Z, Cotton J, Chen S, Horvath V, Stejskalova A, Gulati A, LoGrande NT, Budnik B, Shahriar S, Doherty ER, Xie Y, To T, Gilpin SE, Sesay AM, Goyal G, Lebrilla CB, Ingber DE. Mucus production, host-microbiome interactions, hormone sensitivity, and innate immune responses modeled in human cervix chips. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4578. [PMID: 38811586 PMCID: PMC11137093 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48910-0] [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: 04/22/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Modulation of the cervix by steroid hormones and commensal microbiome play a central role in the health of the female reproductive tract. Here we describe organ-on-a-chip (Organ Chip) models that recreate the human cervical epithelial-stromal interface with a functional epithelial barrier and production of mucus with biochemical and hormone-responsive properties similar to living cervix. When Cervix Chips are populated with optimal healthy versus dysbiotic microbial communities (dominated by Lactobacillus crispatus and Gardnerella vaginalis, respectively), significant differences in tissue innate immune responses, barrier function, cell viability, proteome, and mucus composition are observed that are similar to those seen in vivo. Thus, human Cervix Organ Chips represent physiologically relevant in vitro models to study cervix physiology and host-microbiome interactions, and hence may be used as a preclinical testbed for development of therapeutic interventions to enhance women's health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zohreh Izadifar
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
- Urology Department, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA
| | - Justin Cotton
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Siyu Chen
- Department of Chemistry, University of California Davis, Davis, California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Viktor Horvath
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Anna Stejskalova
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Aakanksha Gulati
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Nina T LoGrande
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Bogdan Budnik
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Sanjid Shahriar
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Erin R Doherty
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Yixuan Xie
- Department of Chemistry, University of California Davis, Davis, California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Tania To
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Sarah E Gilpin
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Adama M Sesay
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Girija Goyal
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
| | - Carlito B Lebrilla
- Department of Chemistry, University of California Davis, Davis, California, Davis, CA, 95616, USA
| | - Donald E Ingber
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA, 02215, USA.
- Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children's Hospital and Department of Pathology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, 02115, USA.
- Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Cambridge, MA, 02134, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Stachowska A, Kicińska AM, Kotulak-Chrząszcz A, Babińska A. Usefulness of the Sympto-Thermal Method with Standardized Cervical Mucus Assessment (InVivo Method) for Evaluating the Monthly Cycle in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:1108. [PMID: 38891183 PMCID: PMC11172004 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12111108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2024] [Revised: 05/15/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
(1) Background: FABMs (fertility awareness-based methods) are methods that rely on the observation of clinical signs related to fertility found in women, the so-called fertility bioindicators. They can be a valuable tool for diagnosing monthly cycle disorders and infertility, for example, among patients with PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome). Until now, it has been difficult for women with PCOS to use FABM, due to the difficulty of describing fertility bioindicators and their disorders due to the biology of the syndrome. The new InVivo sympto-thermal method with standardized cervical mucus assessment may provide a valuable diagnostic and therapeutic tool for observing the monthly cycle in this group of women. (2) Methods: The monthly cycle was evaluated in a group of 32 women of reproductive age. A total of 108 monthly cycle observation cards were analyzed: 35 monthly cycle cards were collected from 18 women with PCOS, and 73 monthly cycle cards collected from 14 healthy women. In addition, 32 pairs of macroscopic and microscopic images were evaluated: 17 pairs from the study group (four subjects) and 15 pairs from women in the control group (six subjects). (3) Results: We showed that in the group of patients with PCOS, menstruation was longer (p = 0.000814), the number of mucus peaks was statistically higher (p = 0.040747), and the interquartile range (IQR) of the duration of the follicular phase (calculated according to the BBT) was significantly higher (8 days) compared to women in the control group. We also observed that among all the women studied, the microscopic image of cervical mucus correlated with the cycle phase described in the observation card, as determined by reference to the BBT chart, provided that it showed the correct features. (4) Conclusions: Systematic maintenance of monthly cycle observation charts using the InVivo method can be an important supplement to the medical history, as it allows for a thorough assessment of, among others, the timing of monthly bleeding, cervical mucus symptoms, BBT changes, and the duration of the follicular and luteal phases among both healthy and PCOS women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aneta Stachowska
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-211 Gdansk, Poland
| | - Aleksandra M. Kicińska
- Center for the Treatment of Infertility and Menstrual Cycle Disorders—InVivo Medical Clinic of Gdansk, 80-306 Gdansk, Poland;
| | - Anna Kotulak-Chrząszcz
- Department of Histology, Faculty of Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-211 Gdansk, Poland;
| | - Anna Babińska
- Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-214 Gdansk, Poland;
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Moraes JGN, Gull T, Ericsson AC, Poock SE, Caldeira MO, Lucy MC. The microbiome of the pregnant uterus in Holstein dairy heifers and cows assessed by bacterial culture and 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing. Front Microbiol 2024; 15:1385497. [PMID: 38812678 PMCID: PMC11134370 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2024.1385497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 04/30/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The possibility that there is a resident and stable commensal microbiome within the pregnant uterus has been supported and refuted by a series of recent studies. One element of most of the initial studies was that they were based primarily on 16S rRNA gene sequencing from bacteria. To account for this limitation, the current study performed both bacterial culture and 16S rRNA gene sequencing in a side-by-side manner (e.g., same tissues isolated from the same animal). Methods The uteruses of 10 mid-pregnant (156 ± 5 d of gestation) Holstein heifers and cows were collected following slaughter. The external surface of the reproductive tract (positive control for contamination during tissue collection) as well as tissues within the pregnant uterus (placentome, inter-cotyledonary placenta, inter-caruncular endometrium, amnionic fluid, allantoic fluid, fetal abomasum content, and fetal meconium) were sampled for bacterial culture and 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Results There were 87 unique bacterial species cultured from the external surface of the pregnant reproductive tract (contamination control) and 12 bacterial species cultured from pregnancy tissues. Six out of 10 cattle (60%) exhibited bacterial growth in at least one location within the pregnant uterus. For the metataxonomic results (16S rRNA gene sequencing), a low targeted microbial biomass was identified. Analyses of the detected amplicon sequence variants (ASV) revealed that there were: (1) genera that were prevalent on both the external surface and within the pregnant uterus; (2) genera that were prevalent on the external surface but either not detected or had very low prevalence within the pregnant uterus; and (3) genera that were either not detected or had low prevalence on the external surface but found with relatively high prevalence within the pregnant uterus. Conclusion There are a small number of viable bacteria in the pregnant uterus. The 16S rRNA gene sequencing detected a microbial community within the pregnant uterus but with a low biomass. These results are consistent with recent studies of the pregnant bovine uterus and leave open the question of whether there is adequate microbial mass to significantly affect the biology of the normal healthy bovine pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joao G. N. Moraes
- Department of Animal and Food Sciences, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, OK, United States
| | - Tamara Gull
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Aaron C. Ericsson
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Scott E. Poock
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Monica O. Caldeira
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| | - Matthew C. Lucy
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, United States
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Zeber-Lubecka N, Kulecka M, Dabrowska M, Baginska-Drabiuk K, Glowienka-Stodolak M, Nowakowski A, Slabuszewska-Jozwiak A, Bednorz B, Jędrzejewska I, Piasecka M, Pawelec J, Wojciechowska-Lampka E, Ostrowski J. Cervical microbiota dysbiosis associated with high-risk Human Papillomavirus infection. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0302270. [PMID: 38669258 PMCID: PMC11051640 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0302270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
High-risk Human Papillomavirus (HR-HPV) genotypes, specifically HPV16 and HPV18, pose a significant risk for the development of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia and cervical cancer. In the multifaceted cervical microenvironment, consisting of immune cells and diverse microbiota, Lactobacillus emerges as a pivotal factor, wielding significant influence in both stabilizing and disrupting the microbiome of the reproductive tract. To analyze the distinction between the cervical microbiota and Lactobacillus-dominant/non-dominant status of HR-HPV and non-infected healthy women, sixty-nine cervical swab samples were analyzed, included 44 with HR-HPV infection and healthy controls. All samples were recruited from Human Papillomavirus-based cervical cancer screening program and subjected to 16s rRNA sequencing analysis. Alpha and beta diversity analyses reveal no significant differences in the cervical microbiota of HR-HPV-infected women, including 16 and 18 HPV genotypes, and those with squamous intraepithelial lesion (SIL), compared to a control group. In this study we identified significantly lower abundance of Lactobacillus mucosae in women with HR-HPV infection compared to the control group. Furthermore, changes in bacterial diversity were noted in Lactobacillus non-dominant (LND) samples compared to Lactobacillus-dominant (LD) in both HR-HPV-infected and control groups. LND samples in HR-HPV-infected women exhibited a cervical dysbiotic state, characterized by Lactobacillus deficiency. In turn, the LD HR-HPV group showed an overrepresentation of Lactobacillus helveticus. In summary, our study highlighted the distinctive roles of L. mucosae and L. helveticus in HR-HPV infections, signaling a need for further research to demonstrate potential clinical implications of cervical microbiota dysbiosis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Zeber-Lubecka
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Clinical Oncology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Genetics, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Maria Kulecka
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Clinical Oncology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Genetics, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Michalina Dabrowska
- Department of Genetics, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Maria Glowienka-Stodolak
- Department of Genetics, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Andrzej Nowakowski
- Department of Cancer Prevention, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Bożena Bednorz
- Department of Cancer Prevention, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Ilona Jędrzejewska
- Department of Cancer Prevention, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Magdalena Piasecka
- Department of Cancer Prevention, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Jolanta Pawelec
- Department of Cancer Prevention, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland
| | | | - Jerzy Ostrowski
- Department of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Clinical Oncology, Centre of Postgraduate Medical Education, Warsaw, Poland
- Department of Genetics, Maria Sklodowska-Curie National Research Institute of Oncology, Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Laskou A, Znalesniak EB, Harder S, Schlüter H, Jechorek D, Langer K, Strecker C, Matthes C, Tchaikovski SN, Hoffmann W. Different Forms of TFF3 in the Human Endocervix, including a Complex with IgG Fc Binding Protein (FCGBP), and Further Aspects of the Cervico-Vaginal Innate Immune Barrier. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:2287. [PMID: 38396964 PMCID: PMC10888570 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25042287] [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: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024] Open
Abstract
TFF3 is a typical secretory poplypeptide of mucous epithelia belonging to the trefoil factor family (TFF) of lectins. In the intestine, respiratory tract, and saliva, TFF3 mainly exists as a high-molecular-mass complex with IgG Fc binding protein (FCGBP), which is indicative of a role in mucosal innate immunity. For the first time, we identified different forms of TFF3 in the endocervix, i.e., monomeric and homodimeric TFF3, as well as a high-molecular-mass TFF3-FCGBP complex; the latter also exists in a hardly soluble form. Immunohistochemistry co-localized TFF3 and FCGBP. Expression analyses of endocervical and post-menopausal vaginal specimens revealed a lack of mucin and TFF3 transcripts in the vaginal specimens. In contrast, genes encoding other typical components of the innate immune defense were expressed in both the endocervix and vagina. Of note, FCGBP is possibly fucosylated. Endocervical specimens from transgender individuals after hormonal therapy showed diminished expression, particularly of FCGBP. Furthermore, mucus swabs from the endocervix and vagina were analyzed concerning TFF3, FCGBP, and lysozyme. It was the aim of this study to illuminate several aspects of the cervico-vaginal innate immune barrier, which is clinically relevant as bacterial and viral infections are also linked to infertility, pre-term birth and cervical cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aikaterini Laskou
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Eva B. Znalesniak
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Sönke Harder
- Section Mass Spectrometric Proteomics, Diagnostic Center, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Hartmut Schlüter
- Section Mass Spectrometric Proteomics, Diagnostic Center, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistr. 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Dörthe Jechorek
- Institute of Pathology, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Kathrin Langer
- Institute of Pathology, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Carina Strecker
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Gerhart-Hauptmann-Str. 35, 39108 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Claudia Matthes
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Gerhart-Hauptmann-Str. 35, 39108 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Svetlana N. Tchaikovski
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Gerhart-Hauptmann-Str. 35, 39108 Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Werner Hoffmann
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Medicinal Chemistry, Otto-von-Guericke University Magdeburg, Leipziger Str. 44, 39120 Magdeburg, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Duan H, Chen H, Qi C, Lv F, Wang J, Liu Y, Liu Z, Liu Y. A novel electrospun nanofiber system with PEGylated paclitaxel nanocrystals enhancing the transmucus permeability and in situ retention for an efficient cervicovaginal cancer therapy. Int J Pharm 2024; 650:123660. [PMID: 38072148 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2023.123660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2023] [Revised: 11/16/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/22/2023]
Abstract
Overcoming the vaginal barrier to achieve sufficient drug penetration and retention is a huge obstacle for drug delivery in chemotherapeutics for cervical cancer. In this study, we investigate the feasibility of a novel composite nanocrystal/nanofiber system for improving the transmucus penetration and, thus, enhancing retention and drug delivery to the lesion of a cervicovaginal tumor. Herein, paclitaxel (PTX) was sequentially formulated in the form of nanocrystals, coated with polydopamine (PDA), and modified with PEG. The nanocrystals (NCs@PDA-PEG) were creatively fabricated to create a composite nanofibrous membrane (NCs@PDA-PEG NFs) by using an electrospinning technique. The morphology, size distribution, drug loading, encapsulation efficiency, X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectra, in vitro release, in vivo vaginal retention, apoptosis index, anti-tumor efficacy in a murine cervicovaginal tumor model, and local irritation were characterized. The NCs@PDA-PEG were formulated in a cube-like shape with an average size of 385.6 ± 35.47 nm; they were dispersed in electrospun nanofibers, and the drug loading was 7.94 %. The XRD curves indicated that the phase state of PTX changed after the creation of the nanocrystals. The FTIR spectra showed that the drug and the excipients were compatible with each other. In vitro delivery showed that the dissolution of PTX in the electrospun nanofibers was significantly faster than that when using bulk PTX. Compared with the PTX NC NFs, the NC@PDA-PEG NFs exhibited prolonged vaginal residence, superior transmucus penetration, minimal mucosal irritation, and significant tumor inhibition efficacy after the intravaginal administration of the NFs in tumor-bearing mice. In conclusion, by acting as novel pharmaceutical repositories, NCs@PDA-PEG NFs can be promising candidates for non-invasive local treatment, leading to efficient tumor inhibition in cervicovaginal cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huan Duan
- Department of Pharmacy, Shanghai Xuhui Center Hospital, Shanghai ,200031, China.
| | - Haini Chen
- School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology,Shanghai 200093, China.
| | - Chenrui Qi
- School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology,Shanghai 200093, China.
| | - Fengmei Lv
- School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology,Shanghai 200093, China.
| | - Jun Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery (Fudan University), Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Yicheng Liu
- Shanghai Fragrant Hill Middle School, Shanghai 200136, China.
| | - Zhepeng Liu
- School of Health Science and Engineering, University of Shanghai for Science and Technology,Shanghai 200093, China; Shanghai WD Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201203, China.
| | - Yu Liu
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University & Key Laboratory of Smart Drug Delivery (Fudan University), Shanghai 201203, China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Park HR, Harris SM, Boldenow E, Aronoff DM, Rea M, Xi C, Loch-Caruso R. The antioxidant N-acetyl cysteine inhibits cytokine and prostaglandin release in human fetal membranes stimulated ex vivo with lipoteichoic acid or live group B streptococcus. Am J Reprod Immunol 2024; 91:e13807. [PMID: 38282602 PMCID: PMC10832889 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13807] [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: 09/08/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/30/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUNDS Infection during pregnancy is a significant public health concern due to the increased risk of adverse birth outcomes. Group B Streptococcus or Streptococcus agalactiae (GBS) stands out as a major bacterial cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality. We aimed to explore the involvement of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative stress pathways in pro-inflammatory responses within human fetal membrane tissue, the target tissue of acute bacterial chorioamnionitis. METHODS We reanalyzed transcriptomic data from fetal membrane explants inoculated with GBS to assess the impact of GBS on oxidative stress and ROS genes/pathways. We conducted pathway enrichment analysis of transcriptomic data using the Database for Annotation, Visualization and Integrated Discovery (DAVID), a web-based functional annotation/pathway enrichment tool. Subsequently, we conducted ex vivo experiments to test the hypothesis that antioxidant treatment could inhibit pathogen-stimulated inflammatory responses in fetal membranes. RESULTS Using DAVID analysis, we found significant enrichment of pathways related to oxidative stress or ROS in GBS-inoculated human fetal membranes, for example, "Response to Oxidative Stress" (FDR = 0.02) and "Positive Regulation of Reactive Oxygen Species Metabolic Process" (FDR = 2.6*10-4 ). There were 31 significantly changed genes associated with these pathways, most of which were upregulated after GBS inoculation. In ex vivo experiments with choriodecidual membrane explants, our study showed that co-treatment with N-acetylcysteine (NAC) effectively suppressed the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α) and prostaglandin PGE2, compared to GBS-treated explants (p < .05 compared to GBS-treated samples without NAC co-treatment). Furthermore, NAC treatment inhibited the release of cytokines and PGE2 stimulated by lipoteichoic acid (LTA) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in whole membrane explants (p < .05 compared to LTA or LPS-treated samples without NAC co-treatment). CONCLUSIONS Our study sheds light on the potential roles of ROS in governing the innate immune response to GBS infection, offering insights for developing strategies to mitigate GBS-related adverse outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hae-Ryung Park
- Department of Environmental Medicine, School of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Rochester, Rochester, NY 14642 USA
| | - Sean M. Harris
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2029 USA
| | - Erica Boldenow
- Department of Biology, Calvin University, Grand Rapids, MI 49546-4402 USA
| | - David M. Aronoff
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Indiana University, Indianapolis, IN 46202-3082
| | - Meaghan Rea
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2029 USA
| | - Chuanwu Xi
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2029 USA
| | - Rita Loch-Caruso
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2029 USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Su Z, Yao C, Tipper J, Yang L, Xu X, Chen X, Bao G, He B, Xu X, Zheng Y. Nanostrategy of Targeting at Embryonic Trophoblast Cells Using CuO Nanoparticles for Female Contraception. ACS NANO 2023; 17:25185-25204. [PMID: 38088330 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c08267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2023]
Abstract
Effective contraceptives have been comprehensively adopted by women to prevent the negative consequences of unintended pregnancy for women, families, and societies. With great contributions of traditional hormonal drugs and intrauterine devices (IUDs) to effective female contraception by inhibiting ovulation and deactivating sperm, their long-standing side effects on hormonal homeostasis and reproductive organs for females remain concerns. Herein, we proposed a nanostrategy for female contraceptives, inducing embryonic trophoblast cell death using nanoparticles to prevent embryo implantation. Cupric oxide nanoparticles (CuO NPs) were adopted in this work to verify the feasibility of the nanostrategy and its contraceptive efficacy. We carried out the in vitro assessment on the interaction of CuO NPs with trophoblast cells using the HTR8/SVneo cell line. The results showed that the CuO NPs were able to be preferably uptaken into cells and induced cell damage via a variety of pathways including oxidative stress, mitochondrial damage, DNA damage, and cell cycle arrest to induce cell death of apoptosis, ferroptosis, and cuproptosis. Moreover, the key regulatory processes and the key genes for cell damage and cell death caused by CuO NPs were revealed by RNA-Seq. We also conducted in vivo experiments using a rat model to examine the contraceptive efficacy of both the bare CuO NPs and the CuO/thermosensitive hydrogel nanocomposite. The results demonstrated that the CuO NPs were highly effective for contraception. There was no sign of disrupting the homeostasis of copper and hormone, or causing inflammation and organ damage in vivo. In all, this nanostrategy exhibited huge potential for contraceptive development with high biosafety, efficacy, clinical translation, nonhormonal style, and on-demand for women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhenning Su
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Engineering Technology Research, Department of Reproduction Physiology, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Cancan Yao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Engineering Technology Research, Department of Reproduction Physiology, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Joanne Tipper
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2007, Australia
| | - Lijun Yang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Engineering Technology Research, Department of Reproduction Physiology, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Xiangbo Xu
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Engineering Technology Research, Department of Reproduction Physiology, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Xihua Chen
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Engineering Technology Research, Department of Reproduction Physiology, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Guo Bao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Engineering Technology Research, Department of Reproduction Physiology, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Bin He
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Engineering Technology Research, Department of Reproduction Physiology, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Xiaoxue Xu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales 2007, Australia
- School of Science, Western Sydney University, Sydney, New South Wales 2751, Australia
| | - Yufeng Zheng
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
- International Research Organization for Advanced Science and Technology, Kumamoto University, 2-39-1 Kurokami, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto 860-8555, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Ardizzone CM, Taylor CM, Toh E, Lillis RA, Elnaggar JH, Lammons JW, Mott PD, Duffy EL, Shen L, Quayle AJ. Association of Chlamydia trachomatis burden with the vaginal microbiota, bacterial vaginosis, and metronidazole treatment. Front Cell Infect Microbiol 2023; 13:1289449. [PMID: 38149008 PMCID: PMC10750252 DOI: 10.3389/fcimb.2023.1289449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Bacterial vaginosis (BV), a dysbiosis of the vaginal microbiota, is a common coinfection with Chlamydia trachomatis (Ct), and BV-associated bacteria (BVAB) and their products have been implicated in aiding Ct evade natural immunity. Here, we determined if a non-optimal vaginal microbiota was associated with a higher genital Ct burden and if metronidazole, a standard treatment for BV, would reduce Ct burden or aid in natural clearance of Ct infection. Cervicovaginal samples were collected from women at enrollment and, if testing positive for Ct infection, at a follow-up visit approximately one week later. Cervical Ct burden was assessed by inclusion forming units (IFU) and Ct genome copy number (GCN), and 16S rRNA gene sequencing was used to determine the composition of the vaginal microbiota. We observed a six-log spectrum of IFU and an eight-log spectrum of GCN in our study participants at their enrollment visit, but BV, as indicated by Amsel's criteria, Nugent scoring, or VALENCIA community state typing, did not predict infectious and total Ct burden, although IFU : GCN increased with Amsel and Nugent scores and in BV-like community state types. Ct burden was, however, associated with the abundance of bacterial species in the vaginal microbiota, negatively with Lactobacillus crispatus and positively with Prevotella bivia. Women diagnosed with BV were treated with metronidazole, and Ct burden was significantly reduced in those who resolved BV with treatment. A subset of women naturally cleared Ct infection in the interim, typified by low Ct burden at enrollment and resolution of BV. Abundance of many BVAB decreased, and Lactobacillus increased, in response to metronidazole treatment, but no changes in abundances of specific vaginal bacteria were unique to women who spontaneously cleared Ct infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Caleb M. Ardizzone
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Christopher M. Taylor
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Evelyn Toh
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Rebecca A. Lillis
- Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Jacob H. Elnaggar
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - John W. Lammons
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Patricia Dehon Mott
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Emily L. Duffy
- Department of Medicine, Section of Infectious Diseases, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Li Shen
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
| | - Alison J. Quayle
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Parasitology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, New Orleans, LA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Kulaksiz D, Bayoglu Tekin Y, Deger O, Baki Erin K. Investigating the relationship between the cervical mucoprotein levels and cervical intraepithelial neoplasia. Minerva Obstet Gynecol 2023; 75:559-564. [PMID: 35785924 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-606x.22.05102-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cervical cancer has been ranked as the fourth most common cancer in women. The role of HPV, the DNA virus identified in the 1980s, in almost all cervical cancers is undisputed. In patients scanned with smear and HPV, a cervical biopsy is performed accompanied by colposcopic examination, and the lesion is defined. The concentration of mucoproteins varies in the structure of the cervical mucus with neoplasms. The major aim of this study was to investigate the changes in the levels of cervical mucoprotein in patients at the early stages of cervical cancer and evaluate if these levels can be used in the early diagnosis of this cancer type. METHODS The study was designed as a prospective cohort study. Samples from cervical mucus were taken and stored before colposcopy examination of human papillomavirus (HPV) positive patients (N.=100). According to the pathology results, while 36 cases constituted the precancerous group, no suspicion of cancer was found in 64 cases. To ensure standardization, colposcopy was performed immediately after the menstrual cycle and at least 0.5 mL of the cervical mucus sample was taken from all individual patients used in this study. Cervical mucus samples of the patients were analyzed for mucoproteins MUC1, MUC2, MUC5AC and MUC5B. RESULTS All mucoprotein levels were found to be higher in patients with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) than those of subjects with normal pathology for cervical neoplasia. CONCLUSIONS Significant relationship was obtained between cervical intraepithelial neoplasms and the levels of mucoproteins in cervical mucus. The results showed that diagnosis of neoplasia with HPV may be easily performed by utilizing any mucoprotein test.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deniz Kulaksiz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Trabzon Kanuni Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Trabzon, Türkiye -
| | - Yesim Bayoglu Tekin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Trabzon Kanuni Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Trabzon, Türkiye
| | - Orhan Deger
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Karadeniz Technical University Faculty of Medicine, Trabzon, Türkiye
| | - Kubra Baki Erin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Trabzon Kanuni Training and Research Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Trabzon, Türkiye
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Zou H, Boboltz A, Cheema Y, Song D, Duncan GA. Synthetic mucus barrier arrays as a nanoparticle formulation screening platform. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.11.29.569212. [PMID: 38076819 PMCID: PMC10705391 DOI: 10.1101/2023.11.29.569212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2023]
Abstract
A mucus gel layer lines the luminal surface of tissues throughout the body to protect them from infectious agents and particulates. As a result, nanoparticle drug delivery systems delivered to these sites may become trapped in mucus and subsequently cleared before they can reach target cells. As such, optimizing the properties of nanoparticle delivery vehicles, such as their surface chemistry and size, is essential to improving their penetration through the mucus barrier. In previous work, we developed a mucin-based hydrogel that has viscoelastic properties like that of native mucus which can be further tailored to mimic specific mucosal tissues and disease states. Using this biomimetic hydrogel system, a 3D-printed array containing synthetic mucus barriers was created that is compatible with a 96-well plate enabling its use as a high-throughput screening platform for nanoparticle drug delivery applications. To validate this system, we evaluated several established design parameters to determine their impact on nanoparticle penetration through synthetic mucus barriers. Consistent with the literature, we found nanoparticles of smaller size and coated with a protective PEG layer more efficiently penetrated through synthetic mucus barriers. In addition, we evaluated a mucolytic (tris (2-carboxyethyl) phosphine, TCEP) for use as a permeation enhancer for mucosal drug delivery. In comparison to N-acetyl cysteine (NAC), we found TCEP significantly improved nanoparticle penetration through a disease-like synthetic mucus barrier. Overall, our results establish a new high-throughput screening approach using synthetic mucus barrier arrays to identify promising nanoparticle formulation strategies for drug delivery to mucosal tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Harry Zou
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| | - Allison Boboltz
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| | - Yahya Cheema
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| | - Daniel Song
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| | - Gregg A. Duncan
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Su Z, Diao T, McGuire H, Yao C, Yang L, Bao G, Xu X, He B, Zheng Y. Nanomaterials Solutions for Contraception: Concerns, Advances, and Prospects. ACS NANO 2023; 17:20753-20775. [PMID: 37856253 DOI: 10.1021/acsnano.3c04366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2023]
Abstract
Preventing unintentional pregnancy is one of the goals of a global public health policy to minimize effects on individuals, families, and society. Various contraceptive formulations with high effectiveness and acceptance, including intrauterine devices, hormonal patches for females, and condoms and vasectomy for males, have been developed and adopted over the last decades. However, distinct breakthroughs of contraceptive techniques have not yet been achieved, while the associated long-term adverse effects are insurmountable, such as endocrine system disorder along with hormone administration, invasive ligation, and slowly restored fertility after removal of intrauterine devices. Spurred by developments of nanomaterials and bionanotechnologies, advanced contraceptives could be fulfilled via nanomaterial solutions with much safer and more controllable and effective approaches to meet various and specific needs for women and men at different reproductive stages. Nanomedicine techniques have been extended to develop contraceptive methods, such as the targeted drug delivery and controlled release of hormone using nanocarriers for females and physical stimulation assisted vasectomy using functional nanomaterials via photothermal treatment or magnetic hyperthermia for males. Nanomaterial solutions for advanced contraceptives offer significantly improved biosafety, noninvasive administration, and controllable reversibility. This review summarizes the nanomaterial solutions to female and male contraceptives including the working mechanisms, clinical concerns, and their merits and demerits. This work also reviewed the nanomaterials that have been adopted in contraceptive applications. In addition, we further discuss safety considerations and future perspectives of nanomaterials in nanostrategy development for next-generation contraceptives. We expect that nanomaterials would potentially replace conventional materials for contraception in the near future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhenning Su
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Engineering Technology Research, Department of Reproduction Physiology, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Tian Diao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Engineering Technology Research, Department of Reproduction Physiology, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
- Academy for Advanced Interdisciplinary Studies, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Helen McGuire
- School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Cancan Yao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Engineering Technology Research, Department of Reproduction Physiology, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Lijun Yang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Engineering Technology Research, Department of Reproduction Physiology, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China
- Graduate School of Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100730, China
| | - Guo Bao
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Engineering Technology Research, Department of Reproduction Physiology, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Xiaoxue Xu
- School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2007, Australia
- School of Science, Western Sydney University, Kumamoto NSW 2751, Australia
| | - Bin He
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health Engineering Technology Research, Department of Reproduction Physiology, National Research Institute for Family Planning, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Yufeng Zheng
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China
- International Research Organization for Advanced Science and Technology, Kumamoto University, 2-39-1 Kurokami, Chuo-Ku, Kumamoto 860-8555, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Ye J, Qi X. Vaginal microecology and its role in human papillomavirus infection and human papillomavirus associated cervical lesions. APMIS 2023. [PMID: 37941500 DOI: 10.1111/apm.13356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/23/2023] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
The vaginal microecology comprises the vaginal microbiome, immune microenvironment, vaginal anatomy, and the cervicovaginal fluid, which is rich in metabolites, enzymes, and cytokines. Investigating its role in the female reproductive system holds paramount significance. The advent of next-generation sequencing enabled a more profound investigation into the structure of the vaginal microbial community in relation to the female reproductive system. Human papillomavirus infection is prevalent among women of reproductive age, and persistent oncogenic HPV infection is widely recognized as a factor associated with cervical cancer. Extensive previous research has demonstrated that dysbiosis of vaginal microbiota characterized by a reduction in Lactobacillus species, heightens susceptivity to HPV infection, consequently contributing to persistent HPV infection and the progression of cervical lesion. Likewise, HPV infection can exacerbate dysbiosis. This review aims to provide a comprehensive summary of current literatures and to elucidate potential mechanisms underlying the interaction between vaginal microecology and HPV infection, with the intention of offering valuable insights for future clinical interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiatian Ye
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaorong Qi
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children (Sichuan University), Ministry of Education, West China Second Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Xu C, Wang A, Ebraham L, Sullivan L, Tasker C, Pizutelli V, Couret J, Hernandez C, Kolli P, Deb PQ, Fritzky L, Subbian S, Gao N, Lo Y, Salvatore M, Rivera A, Lemenze A, Fitzgerald-Bocarsly P, Tyagi S, Lu W, Beaulieu A, Chang TL. Interferon ɛ restricts Zika virus infection in the female reproductive tract. PNAS NEXUS 2023; 2:pgad350. [PMID: 37954158 PMCID: PMC10639110 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgad350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Interferon ɛ (IFNɛ) is a unique type I IFN that has been implicated in host defense against sexually transmitted infections. Zika virus (ZIKV), an emerging pathogen, can infect the female reproductive tract (FRT) and cause devastating diseases, particularly in pregnant women. How IFNɛ contributes to protection against ZIKV infection in vivo is unknown. In this study, we show that IFNɛ plays a critical role in host protection against vaginal ZIKV infection in mice. We found that IFNɛ was expressed not only by epithelial cells in the FRT but also by immune and stromal cells at baseline or after exposure to viruses or specific Toll-like receptor (TLR) agonists. IFNɛ-deficient mice exhibited abnormalities in the epithelial border and underlying tissue in the cervicovaginal tract, and these defects were associated with increased susceptibility to vaginal but not subcutaneous ZIKV infection. IFNɛ deficiency resulted in an increase in magnitude, duration, and depth of ZIKV infection in the FRT. Critically, intravaginal administration of recombinant IFNɛ protected Ifnɛ-/- mice and highly susceptible Ifnar1-/- mice against vaginal ZIKV infection, indicating that IFNɛ was sufficient to provide protection even in the absence of signals from other type I IFNs and in an IFNAR1-independent manner. Our findings reveal a potentially critical role for IFNɛ in mediating protection against the transmission of ZIKV in the context of sexual contact.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chuan Xu
- Public Health Research Institute, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Annie Wang
- Public Health Research Institute, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Laith Ebraham
- Public Health Research Institute, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Liam Sullivan
- Public Health Research Institute, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Carley Tasker
- Public Health Research Institute, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Vanessa Pizutelli
- Public Health Research Institute, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Jennifer Couret
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Cyril Hernandez
- Public Health Research Institute, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Priyanka Kolli
- Graduate School of Biological Sciences, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Pratik Q Deb
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Luke Fritzky
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Selvakumar Subbian
- Public Health Research Institute, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Nan Gao
- Department of Cell Biology, Rutgers, School of Art and Science-Newark, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Yungtai Lo
- Department of Epidemiology and Population Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461, USA
| | - Mirella Salvatore
- Departmentof Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY 10065, USA
| | - Amariliz Rivera
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Alexander Lemenze
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | | | - Sanjay Tyagi
- Public Health Research Institute, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Wuyuan Lu
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology (MOE/NHC/CAMS), School of Basic Medical Science, and Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Aimee Beaulieu
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Theresa L Chang
- Public Health Research Institute, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Bustos NA, Ribbeck K, Wagner CE. The role of mucosal barriers in disease progression and transmission. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2023; 200:115008. [PMID: 37442240 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2023.115008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
Mucus is a biological hydrogel that coats and protects all non-keratinized wet epithelial surfaces. Mucins, the primary structural components of mucus, are critical components of the gel layer that protect against invading pathogens. For communicable diseases, pathogen-mucin interactions contribute to the pathogen's fate and the potential for disease progression in-host, as well as the potential for onward transmission. We begin by reviewing in-host mucus filtering mechanisms, including size filtering and interaction filtering, which regulate the permeability of mucus barriers to all molecules including pathogens. Next, we discuss the role of mucins in communicable diseases at the point of transmission (i.e. how the encapsulation of pathogens in emitted mucosal droplets externally to hosts may modulate pathogen infectivity and viability). Overall, mucosal barriers modulate both host susceptibility as well as the dynamics of population-level disease transmission. The study of mucins and their use in models and experimental systems are therefore crucial for understanding the mechanistic biophysical principles underlying disease transmission and the early stages of host infection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole A Bustos
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Katharina Ribbeck
- Department of Biological Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Caroline E Wagner
- Department of Bioengineering, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Kaya YA, de Zoete MR, Steba GS. Advanced Technologies for Studying Microbiome-Female Reproductive Tract Interactions: Organoids, Organoids-on-a-Chip, and Beyond. Semin Reprod Med 2023; 41:160-171. [PMID: 38262440 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1778067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
The female reproductive tract (FRT) is home to diverse microbial communities that play a pivotal role in reproductive health and disorders such as infertility, endometriosis, and cervical cancer. To understand the complex host-microbiota interactions within the FRT, models that authentically replicate the FRT's environment, including the interplay between the microbiota, mucus layer, immune system, and hormonal cycle, are key. Recent strides in organoid and microfluidic technologies are propelling research in this domain, offering insights into FRT-microbiota interactions and potential therapeutic avenues. This review delves into the current state of FRT organoid models and microbe integration techniques, evaluating their merits and challenges for specific research objectives. Emphasis is placed on innovative approaches and applications, including integrating organoids with microfluidics, and using patient-derived biobanks, as this offers potential for deeper mechanistic insights and personalized therapeutic strategies. Modeling various FRT properties in organoids is explored, from encompassing age-related epithelial features, oxygen levels, and hormonal effects to mucus layers, immune responses, and microbial interactions, highlighting their potential to transform reproductive health research and predict possible outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Marcel R de Zoete
- Department of Medical Microbiology, University Medical Centre, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Gaby S Steba
- Division of Female and Baby, Department of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecology, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Ruiz-Durán S, Tenorio CM, Vico-Zúñiga I, Manzanares S, Puertas-Prieto A, Altmäe S, Vargas E. Microenvironment of the Lower Reproductive Tract: Focus on the Cervical Mucus Plug. Semin Reprod Med 2023; 41:200-208. [PMID: 38262442 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1778661] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2024]
Abstract
The female lower reproductive tract microbiota is a complex ecosystem comprising various microorganisms that play a pivotal role in maintaining women's reproductive well-being. During pregnancy, the vaginal microbiota undergoes dynamic changes that are important for a successful gestation. This review summarizes the implications of the cervical mucus plug microenvironment and its profound impact on reproductive health. Further, the symbiotic relationship between the vaginal microbiome and the cervical mucus plug is highlighted, with a special emphasis on how this natural barrier serves as a guardian against ascending infections. Understanding this complex host-microbes interplay could pave the way for innovative approaches to improve women's reproductive health and fertility.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susana Ruiz-Durán
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Virgen de las Nieves University Hospital, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
| | - Celia M Tenorio
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
| | - Irene Vico-Zúñiga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Virgen de las Nieves University Hospital, Granada, Spain
| | - Sebastián Manzanares
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Virgen de las Nieves University Hospital, Granada, Spain
| | - Alberto Puertas-Prieto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Virgen de las Nieves University Hospital, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
| | - Signe Altmäe
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology (CLINTEC), Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Eva Vargas
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
- Department of Experimental Biology, Faculty of Experimental Sciences, University of Jaén, Jaén, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
De Rosa N, Santangelo F, Todisco C, Dequerquis F, Santangelo C. Collagen-Based Ovule Therapy Reduces Inflammation and Improve Cervical Epithelialization in Patients with Fungal, Viral, and Bacterial Cervico-Vaginitis. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:1490. [PMID: 37629780 PMCID: PMC10456438 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59081490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Vulvovaginal infections pose significant health challenges for women, necessitating effective treatment approaches. This retrospective observational study aimed at investigating the efficacy of collagen-based vaginal ovules therapy, specifically Plurigin Ovules, in restoring cervical epithelialization and reducing inflammation in mycotic, viral, and bacterial cervico-vaginitis. Materials and Methods: A total of 398 women with cervico-vaginitis were included in the study, categorized into three groups: bacterial cervico-vaginitis (Group A), viral cervico-vaginitis (Group B), and fungal cervico-vaginitis (Group C). Participants received vaginal therapy with Plurigin Ovules for three months. Vaginal health parameters were assessed at baseline (T0) and after six months (T1) using various diagnostic tests and analyzed with appropriate statistical tests. Results: Significant improvement in cervico-vaginitis was observed in all three groups. At T1, 87.7% patients of Group A, 66.7% of Group B, and 71.5% of Group C achieved infection resolution (all p < 0.05). Positive colposcopy results decreased across all groups (p < 0.001). Positive vaginal swabs and altered vaginal pH decreased in group A and C (p < 0.001). Positive HPV tests decreased in Group B (p < 0.001). Positive Pap tests and clinical examinations decreased significantly across all groups (p < 0.001). The odds ratios were calculated to reveal the significant associations between these diagnostic outcomes. The therapy was well-tolerated, and no major adverse events were reported. Conclusion: Plurigin Ovules exhibited promising therapeutic outcomes in the three cervico-vaginitis conditions studied. Bacterial cervico-vaginitis showed the most significant improvement, followed by fungal and viral cervico-vaginitis. These findings emphasize the potential of Plurigin Ovules as an effective therapeutic option for cervico-vaginal inflammation and infection, highlighting its role in promoting re-epithelialization and reducing inflammatory processes in the cervix and vagina.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicoletta De Rosa
- Ginecology and Obstetric Department, Pio XI Hospital, 20832 Monza-Brianza, Italy
| | - Fabrizia Santangelo
- Hospital of National Relevance “A. Cardarelli”, 80113 Naples, Italy; (F.S.); (F.D.)
| | | | - Fabiana Dequerquis
- Hospital of National Relevance “A. Cardarelli”, 80113 Naples, Italy; (F.S.); (F.D.)
| | - Claudio Santangelo
- Hospital of National Relevance “A. Cardarelli”, 80113 Naples, Italy; (F.S.); (F.D.)
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Nicholas-Haizelden K, Murphy B, Hoptroff M, Horsburgh MJ. Bioprospecting the Skin Microbiome: Advances in Therapeutics and Personal Care Products. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1899. [PMID: 37630459 PMCID: PMC10456854 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11081899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 07/20/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Bioprospecting is the discovery and exploration of biological diversity found within organisms, genetic elements or produced compounds with prospective commercial or therapeutic applications. The human skin is an ecological niche which harbours a rich and compositional diversity microbiome stemming from the multifactorial interactions between the host and microbiota facilitated by exploitable effector compounds. Advances in the understanding of microbial colonisation mechanisms alongside species and strain interactions have revealed a novel chemical and biological understanding which displays applicative potential. Studies elucidating the organismal interfaces and concomitant understanding of the central processes of skin biology have begun to unravel a potential wealth of molecules which can exploited for their proposed functions. A variety of skin-microbiome-derived compounds display prospective therapeutic applications, ranging from antioncogenic agents relevant in skin cancer therapy to treatment strategies for antimicrobial-resistant bacterial and fungal infections. Considerable opportunities have emerged for the translation to personal care products, such as topical agents to mitigate various skin conditions such as acne and eczema. Adjacent compound developments have focused on cosmetic applications such as reducing skin ageing and its associated changes to skin properties and the microbiome. The skin microbiome contains a wealth of prospective compounds with therapeutic and commercial applications; however, considerable work is required for the translation of in vitro findings to relevant in vivo models to ensure translatability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keir Nicholas-Haizelden
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3BX, UK;
| | - Barry Murphy
- Unilever Research & Development, Port Sunlight, Wirral CH63 3JW, UK; (B.M.); (M.H.)
| | - Michael Hoptroff
- Unilever Research & Development, Port Sunlight, Wirral CH63 3JW, UK; (B.M.); (M.H.)
| | - Malcolm J. Horsburgh
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Liverpool L69 3BX, UK;
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
Santacroce L, Palmirotta R, Bottalico L, Charitos IA, Colella M, Topi S, Jirillo E. Crosstalk between the Resident Microbiota and the Immune Cells Regulates Female Genital Tract Health. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:1531. [PMID: 37511906 PMCID: PMC10381428 DOI: 10.3390/life13071531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The female genital tract (FGT) performs several functions related to reproduction, but due to its direct exposure to the external environment, it may suffer microbial infections. Both the upper (uterus and cervix) and lower (vagina) FGT are covered by an epithelium, and contain immune cells (macrophages, dendritic cells, T and B lymphocytes) that afford a robust protection to the host. Its upper and the lower part differ in terms of Lactobacillus spp., which are dominant in the vagina. An alteration of the physiological equilibrium between the local microbiota and immune cells leads to a condition of dysbiosis which, in turn, may account for the outcome of FGT infection. Aerobic vaginitis, bacterial vaginosis, and Chlamydia trachomatis are the most frequent infections, and can lead to severe complications in reproduction and pregnancy. The use of natural products, such as probiotics, polyphenols, and lactoferrin in the course of FGT infections is an issue of current investigation. In spite of positive results, more research is needed to define the most appropriate administration, according to the type of patient.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Santacroce
- Microbiology and Virology Section, Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Raffaele Palmirotta
- Microbiology and Virology Section, Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Lucrezia Bottalico
- Department of Clinical Disciplines, School of Technical Medical Sciences, "Alexander Xhuvani" University of Elbasan, 3001 Elbasan, Albania
| | | | - Marica Colella
- Microbiology and Virology Section, Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Skender Topi
- Department of Clinical Disciplines, School of Technical Medical Sciences, "Alexander Xhuvani" University of Elbasan, 3001 Elbasan, Albania
| | - Emilio Jirillo
- Microbiology and Virology Section, Interdisciplinary Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Bari "Aldo Moro", 70124 Bari, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Purushothaman AK, Nelson EJR. Role of innate immunity and systemic inflammation in cystic fibrosis disease progression. Heliyon 2023; 9:e17553. [PMID: 37449112 PMCID: PMC10336457 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e17553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2022] [Revised: 06/14/2023] [Accepted: 06/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Pathophysiological manifestations of cystic fibrosis (CF) result from a functional defect in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) paving way for mucus obstruction and pathogen colonization. The role of CFTR in modulating immune cell function and vascular integrity, irrespective of mucus thickening, in determining the host cell response to pathogens/allergens and causing systemic inflammation is least appreciated. Since CFTR plays a key role in the conductance of anions like Cl-, loss of CFTR function could affect various basic cellular processes, such as cellular homeostasis, lysosome acidification, and redox balance. CFTR aids in endotoxin tolerance by regulating Toll-like receptor-mediated signaling resulting in uncontrolled activation of innate immune cells. Although leukocytes of CF patients are hyperactivated, they exhibit compromised phagosome activity thus favouring the orchestration of sepsis from defective pathogen clearance. This review will emphasize the importance of innate immunity and systemic inflammatory response in the development of CF and other CFTR-associated pathologies.
Collapse
|
29
|
Dun S, Liu C, Li N. Changes of Vaginal Microecology of Women with Intrauterine Adhesions. Int J Womens Health 2023; 15:857-867. [PMID: 37283996 PMCID: PMC10239635 DOI: 10.2147/ijwh.s407010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Reproductive tract infection is one of the important causes of intrauterine adhesions (IUA). The evaluation of vaginal microecology could provide significant guidance for the treatment of reproductive tract infection. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between IUA and vaginal microecology. Methods Patients who came to the gynecology department of our hospital from March 2020 to February 2022 and were diagnosed with IUA were selected as the research subjects (n=150). Patients with normal uterine cavity were selected as the control group (n=150). All research subjects underwent hysteroscopy and vaginal microecological examination. The vaginal pH, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), leukocyte esterase (LE), sialidase (SNA), 3-glucuronidase (GUS), and acetylglucosidase (NAG) of the participants were recorded and analyzed, respectively. Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC), trichomonas vaginitis (TV), and bacterial vaginosis (BV) were evaluated and diagnosed separately. Results The incidence of abnormal vaginal microecological morphological and functional indicators in the IUA group was remarkably higher than that in the control group, mainly manifested as relatively high pH value, reduction of Lactobacillus, increased ratio of flora density I, IV and flora diversity I, IV, higher detection rate of TV and BV. In addition, the increase in the positive rate of H2O2, LE, SNA, and NAG were observed in IUA patients. Conclusion Vaginal microecological imbalance is closely related to the occurrence of IUA, which should cause clinical concern.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sidi Dun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Daqing Oilfield General Hospital, Daqing, Heilongjiang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Chunying Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Daqing Oilfield General Hospital, Daqing, Heilongjiang, People’s Republic of China
| | - Na Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Daqing Oilfield General Hospital, Daqing, Heilongjiang, People’s Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Yeruva T, Yang S, Doski S, Duncan GA. Hydrogels for Mucosal Drug Delivery. ACS APPLIED BIO MATERIALS 2023; 6:1684-1700. [PMID: 37126538 DOI: 10.1021/acsabm.3c00050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Mucosal tissues are often a desirable site of drug action to treat disease and engage the immune system. However, systemically administered drugs suffer from limited bioavailability in mucosal tissues where technologies to enable direct, local delivery to these sites would prove useful. In this Spotlight on Applications article, we discuss hydrogels as an attractive means for local delivery of therapeutics to address a range of conditions affecting the eye, nose, oral cavity, gastrointestinal, urinary bladder, and vaginal tracts. Considering the barriers to effective mucosal delivery, we provide an overview of the key parameters in the use of hydrogels for these applications. Finally, we highlight recent work demonstrating their use for inflammatory and infectious diseases affecting these tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Taj Yeruva
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
| | - Sydney Yang
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
| | - Shadin Doski
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
| | - Gregg A Duncan
- Fischell Department of Bioengineering, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742, United States
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Xu C, Wang A, Ebraham L, Sullivan L, Tasker C, Pizutelli V, Couret J, Hernandez C, Deb PQ, Fritzky L, Subbian S, Gao N, Lo Y, Salvatore M, Rivera A, Lemenze A, Fitzgerald-Bocarsly P, Tyagi S, Lu W, Beaulieu A, Chang TL. Interferon ε restricts Zika virus infection in the female reproductive tract. BIORXIV : THE PREPRINT SERVER FOR BIOLOGY 2023:2023.04.06.535968. [PMID: 37066223 PMCID: PMC10104157 DOI: 10.1101/2023.04.06.535968] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
Interferon ε (IFNε) is a unique type I IFN that has been implicated in host defense against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Zika virus (ZIKV), an emerging pathogen, can infect the female reproductive tract (FRT) and cause devastating diseases, particularly in pregnant women. How IFNε contributes to protection against ZIKV infection in vivo is unknown. Here, we show that IFNε plays a critical role in host protection against vaginal ZIKV infection in mice. We found that IFNε was expressed not only by epithelial cells in the FRT, but also by certain immune and other cells at baseline or after exposure to viruses or specific TLR agonists. IFNε-deficient mice exhibited abnormalities in the epithelial border and underlying tissue in the cervicovaginal tract, and these defects were associated with increased susceptibility to vaginal, but not subcutaneous ZIKV infection. IFNε-deficiency resulted in an increase in magnitude, duration, and depth of ZIKV infection in the FRT. Critically, intravaginal administration of recombinant IFNε protected Ifnε-/- mice and highly susceptible Ifnar1-/- mice against vaginal ZIKV infection, indicating that IFNε was sufficient to provide protection even in the absence of signals from other type I IFNs and in an IFNAR1-independent manner. Our findings reveal a potentially critical role for IFNε in mediating protection against transmission of ZIKV in the context of sexual contact.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chuan Xu
- Public Health Research Institute, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Annie Wang
- Public Health Research Institute, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Laith Ebraham
- Public Health Research Institute, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Liam Sullivan
- Public Health Research Institute, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Carley Tasker
- Public Health Research Institute, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Vanessa Pizutelli
- Public Health Research Institute, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Jennifer Couret
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Cyril Hernandez
- Public Health Research Institute, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Pratik Q. Deb
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Luke Fritzky
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Selvakumar Subbian
- Public Health Research Institute, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Nan Gao
- Department of Cell Biology, Rutgers, School of Art and Science-Newark, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Yungtai Lo
- Department of Epidemiology & Population Health, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY10461
| | - Mirella Salvatore
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, 10065
| | - Amariliz Rivera
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Alexander Lemenze
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | | | - Sanjay Tyagi
- Public Health Research Institute, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Wuyuan Lu
- Key Laboratory of Medical Molecular Virology (MOE/NHC/CAMS), School of Basic Medical Science, and Shanghai Institute of Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
| | - Aimee Beaulieu
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| | - Theresa L. Chang
- Public Health Research Institute, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
- Department of Microbiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, Rutgers, New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ 07103, USA
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Lu Z, Zhao P, Lu H, Xiao M. Analyses of human papillomavirus, Chlamydia trachomatis, Ureaplasma urealyticum, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, and co-infections in a gynecology outpatient clinic in Haikou area, China. BMC Womens Health 2023; 23:117. [PMID: 36944923 PMCID: PMC10029165 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-023-02259-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/06/2023] [Indexed: 03/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of this study was to study the infection rates of Chlamydia trachomatis (CT), Ureaplasma urealyticum (UU), Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG), and co-infections with human papillomavirus (HPV) in a hospital gynecology outpatient clinic in the Haikou region in 2021. METHODS From January to December 2021, the Women and Children Medical Center of Hainan Province collected 2389 samples of cervical exfoliated cells and vaginal swab specimens from gynecologic outpatients. The samples were then analyzed descriptively for data, and the detection rate of each pathogen was tallied. All vaginal swabs were obtained for CT, UU, and NG DNA testing, and cervical exfoliated cells for HPV genotyping. Analyses were performed on the detection rate of each group. RESULTS In 2389 samples, the frequencies of pathogen identification among the 2389 samples were as follows: UU (58.43%); HPV (17.29%); CT (7.99%); and NG (0.38%). HPV, CT, UU, and NG were detected in 33.33%, 22.55%, 77.45%, and 2.94% of individuals between 15 and 20 years of age, respectively. The detection rates of CT, UU, and NG were substantially greater in the HPV-positive group than the the HPV-negative group (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION Among gynecologic outpatients at a hospital in the Haikou area, the probability of mixed infections with genital tract pathogens in HPV-positive patients was higher compared to HPV-negative patients. Reproductive tract infections are becoming more prevalent in younger people, hence adolescent sexual health education needs improvement.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhe Lu
- Clinical Laboratory, Women and Children's Health Care Center of Hainan, 75 Longkun Nan Road, Haikou City, 570100, Hainan Province, China
| | - Peizhen Zhao
- Clinical Laboratory, Women and Children's Health Care Center of Hainan, 75 Longkun Nan Road, Haikou City, 570100, Hainan Province, China
| | - Huijun Lu
- Clinical Laboratory, Women and Children's Health Care Center of Hainan, 75 Longkun Nan Road, Haikou City, 570100, Hainan Province, China
| | - Meifang Xiao
- Clinical Laboratory, Women and Children's Health Care Center of Hainan, 75 Longkun Nan Road, Haikou City, 570100, Hainan Province, China.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Zhao X, Liu Z, Chen T. Potential Role of Vaginal Microbiota in Ovarian Cancer Carcinogenesis, Progression and Treatment. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15030948. [PMID: 36986809 PMCID: PMC10056320 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15030948] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Ovarian cancer represents one of the most challenging gynecologic cancers which still has numerous unknowns on the underlying pathogenesis. In addition to the verified contributors such as genomic predisposition and medical history in the carcinogenesis, emerging evidence points out the potential role of vaginal microbiota in ovarian cancer. Recent studies have underlined the presence of vaginal microbial dysbiosis in cancer cases. Increasing research also indicates the potential correlations between vaginal microbes and cancer carcinogenesis, progression and treatment. Currently, compared with other gynecologic cancers, reports on the roles of vaginal microbiota in ovarian cancer remain scarce and fragmentary. Therefore, in this review, we summarize the roles of vaginal microbiota in various gynecologic diseases, particularly focusing on the potential mechanisms and possible applications of vaginal microbiota in ovarian cancer, giving insight into the involvement of vaginal microbiota in gynecologic cancer treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiumiao Zhao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
- Queen Mary School, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, China
| | - Zhaoxia Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
- Correspondence: (Z.L.); (T.C.)
| | - Tingtao Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University, Nanchang 330006, China
- National Engineering Research Center for Bioengineering Drugs and Technologies, Institute of Translational Medicine, Nanchang University, Nanchang 330031, China
- Correspondence: (Z.L.); (T.C.)
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Das S, Bhattacharjee MJ, Mukherjee AK, Khan MR. Recent advances in understanding of multifaceted changes in the vaginal microenvironment: implications in vaginal health and therapeutics. Crit Rev Microbiol 2023; 49:256-282. [PMID: 35312419 DOI: 10.1080/1040841x.2022.2049696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
The vagina endures multifaceted changes from neonatal to menopausal phases due to hormonal flux, metabolite deposition, and microbial colonization. These features have important implications in women's health. Several pre-factors show dynamic characteristics according to the phases that shift the vaginal microbiota from anaerobes to aerobes which is a hallmark of healthy vaginal environment. These factors include oestrogen levels, glycogen deposition, and vaginal microstructure. In the adult phase, Lactobacillus is highly dominant and regulates pH, adherence, aggregation, immune modulation, synthesis of bacteriocins, and biosurfactants (BSs) which are antagonistic to pathogens. Maternal factors are protective by favouring the colonization of lactobacilli in the vagina in the neonatal phase, which diminishes with age. The dominance of lactobacilli and dysbiosis in the adult phase depends on intrinsic and extrinsic factors in women, which vary between ethnicities. Recent developments in probiotics used against vaginal microbiome dysbiosis have shown great promise in restoring the normal microbiota including preventing the loss of beneficial bacteria. However, further in-depth studies are warranted to ensure long-term protection by probiotics. This review highlights various aspects of the vaginal microenvironment in different phases of growth and diverse ethnicities. Furthermore, it discusses future trends for formulating more effective population-specific probiotics and implications of paraprobiotics and postbiotics as effective therapeutics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sushmita Das
- Division of Life Science, Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology, Guwahati, India
| | | | - Ashis K Mukherjee
- Division of Life Science, Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology, Guwahati, India.,Department of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, Tezpur University, Tezpur, India
| | - Mojibur Rohman Khan
- Division of Life Science, Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology, Guwahati, India
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Freire Haddad H, Roe EF, Collier JH. Expanding opportunities to engineer mucosal vaccination with biomaterials. Biomater Sci 2023; 11:1625-1647. [PMID: 36723064 DOI: 10.1039/d2bm01694j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Mucosal vaccines are receiving increasing interest both for protecting against infectious diseases and for inducing therapeutic immune responses to treat non-infectious diseases. However, the mucosal barriers of the lungs, gastrointestinal tract, genitourinary tract, nasal, and oral tissues each present unique challenges for constructing efficacious vaccines. Vaccination through each of these mucosae requires transport through the mucus and across specialized epithelia to reach tissue-specific immune cells and lymphoid structures, necessitating finely tuned and multifunctional strategies. Serving as inspiration for mucosal vaccine design, pathogens have evolved elaborate, diverse, and multipronged approaches to penetrate and infect mucosae. This review is focused on biomaterials-based strategies, many inspired by pathogens, for designing mucosal vaccine platforms. Passive and active technologies are discussed, along with the microbial processes that they seek to mimic.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Helena Freire Haddad
- Theodore Kennedy Professor of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, 101 Science Drive, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
| | - Emily F Roe
- Theodore Kennedy Professor of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, 101 Science Drive, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
| | - Joel H Collier
- Theodore Kennedy Professor of Biomedical Engineering, Duke University, 101 Science Drive, Durham, NC 27708, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
van Teijlingen NH, Eder J, Sarrami-Forooshani R, Zijlstra-Willems EM, Roovers JPWR, van Leeuwen E, Ribeiro CMS, Geijtenbeek TBH. Immune activation of vaginal human Langerhans cells increases susceptibility to HIV-1 infection. Sci Rep 2023; 13:3283. [PMID: 36841916 PMCID: PMC9968315 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-30097-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2018] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Vaginal inflammation increases the risk for sexual HIV-1 transmission but underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In this study we assessed the impact of immune activation on HIV-1 susceptibility of primary human vaginal Langerhans cells (LCs). Vaginal LCs isolated from human vaginal tissue expressed a broad range of TLRs and became activated after exposure to both viral and bacterial TLR ligands. HIV-1 replication was restricted in immature vaginal LCs as only low levels of infection could be detected. Notably, activation of immature vaginal LCs by bacterial TLR ligands increased HIV-1 infection, whereas viral TLR ligands were unable to induce HIV-1 replication in vaginal LCs. Furthermore, mature vaginal LCs transmitted HIV-1 to CD4 T cells. This study emphasizes the role for vaginal LCs in protection against mucosal HIV-1 infection, which is abrogated upon activation. Moreover, our data suggest that bacterial STIs can increase the risk of HIV-1 acquisition in women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nienke H. van Teijlingen
- grid.509540.d0000 0004 6880 3010Amsterdam UMC Location Academic Medical Center, Experimental Immunology, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Julia Eder
- grid.509540.d0000 0004 6880 3010Amsterdam UMC Location Academic Medical Center, Experimental Immunology, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands ,Amsterdam Institute for Infection & Immunity, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ramin Sarrami-Forooshani
- grid.417689.5ATMP Department, Breast Cancer Research Center, Motamed Cancer Institute, ACECR, P.O. BOX, Tehran, 15179/64311 Iran
| | - Esther M. Zijlstra-Willems
- grid.509540.d0000 0004 6880 3010Amsterdam UMC Location Academic Medical Center, Experimental Immunology, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands ,Amsterdam Institute for Infection & Immunity, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jan-Paul W. R. Roovers
- grid.509540.d0000 0004 6880 3010Amsterdam UMC Location Academic Medical Center, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Elisabeth van Leeuwen
- grid.509540.d0000 0004 6880 3010Amsterdam UMC Location Academic Medical Center, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Carla M. S. Ribeiro
- grid.509540.d0000 0004 6880 3010Amsterdam UMC Location Academic Medical Center, Experimental Immunology, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands ,Amsterdam Institute for Infection & Immunity, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Teunis B. H. Geijtenbeek
- grid.509540.d0000 0004 6880 3010Amsterdam UMC Location Academic Medical Center, Experimental Immunology, Meibergdreef 9, Amsterdam, The Netherlands ,Amsterdam Institute for Infection & Immunity, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Pinto V, Dellino M, Santarsiero CM, Cormio G, Loizzi V, Griseta V, Vimercati A, Cazzato G, Cascardi E, Cicinelli E. Ultrasound Control of Cervical Regeneration after Large Loop Excision of the Transformation Zone: Results of an Innovative Measurement Technique. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13040791. [PMID: 36832279 PMCID: PMC9955376 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13040791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
The objective of this research is to evaluate cervical regeneration after large loop excision of the transformation zone (LLETZ) through the identification of a new sonographic reference point at the level of the uterine margins. In the period March 2021-January 2022, a total of 42 patients affected by CIN 2-3 were treated with LLETZ at the University Hospital of Bari (Italy). Before performing LLETZ, cervical length and volume were measured with trans-vaginal 3D ultrasound. From the multiplanar images, the cervical volume was obtained using the Virtual Organ Computer-aided AnaLysis (VOCAL™) program with manual contour mode. The line that connects the points where the common trunk of the uterine arteries reaches the uterus splitting into the ascending major branch and the cervical branch was considered as the upper limit of the cervical canal. From the acquired 3D volume, the length and the volume of the cervix were measured between this line and the external uterine os. Immediately after LLETZ, the removed cone was measured using Vernier's caliper, and before fixation in formalin, the volume of the excised tissue was evaluated by the fluid displacement technique based on the Archimedes principle. The proportion of excised cervical volume was 25.50 ± 17.43%. The volume and the height of the excised cone were 1.61 ± 0.82 mL and 9.65 ± 2.49 mm corresponding to 14.74 ± 11.91% and 36.26 ± 15.49% of baseline values, respectively. The volume and length of the residual cervix were also assessed using 3D ultrasound up to the sixth month after excision. At 6 weeks, about 50% of cases reported an unchanged or lower cervical volume compared to the baseline pre-LLETZ values. The average percentage of volume regeneration in examined patients was equal to 9.77 ± 55.33%. In the same period, the cervical length regeneration rate was 69.41 ± 14.8%. Three months after LLETZ, a volume regeneration rate of 41.36 ± 28.31% was found. For the length, an average regeneration rate of 82.48 ± 15.25% was calculated. Finally, at 6 months, the percentage of regeneration of the excised volume was 90.99 ± 34.91%. The regrowth percentage of the cervical length was 91.07 ± 8.03%. The cervix measurement technique that we have proposed has the advantage of identifying an unequivocal reference point in 3D cervical measurement. Ultrasound 3D evaluation could be useful in the clinical practice to evaluate the cervical tissue deficit and express the "potential of cervical regeneration" as well as provide the surgeon useful information about the cervical length.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Pinto
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine (DIM), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Miriam Dellino
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine (DIM), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
- Correspondence: (M.D.); (E.C.)
| | - Carla Mariaflavia Santarsiero
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine (DIM), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Gennaro Cormio
- Gynecologic Oncology IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II” Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy
- Department of Interdiscipliniary Medicine (DIM), University of Bari, 70121 Bari, Italy
| | - Vera Loizzi
- Gynecologic Oncology IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II” Bari, 70124 Bari, Italy
- Department of Interdiscipliniary Medicine (DIM), University of Bari, 70121 Bari, Italy
| | - Valentina Griseta
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine (DIM), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Antonella Vimercati
- Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian Area, University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Gerardo Cazzato
- Section of Molecular Pathology, Department of Precision and Regenerative Medicine and Ionian, Area (DiMePRe-J), School of Medicine, Aldo Moro University of Bari, 70100 Bari, Italy
| | - Eliano Cascardi
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, 10124 Turin, Italy
- Pathology Unit, FPO-IRCCS Candiolo Cancer Institute, 10060 Candiolo, Italy
- Correspondence: (M.D.); (E.C.)
| | - Ettore Cicinelli
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine (DIM), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Cooley A, Madhukaran S, Stroebele E, Colon Caraballo M, Wang L, Akgul Y, Hon GC, Mahendroo M. Dynamic states of cervical epithelia during pregnancy and epithelial barrier disruption. iScience 2023; 26:105953. [PMID: 36718364 PMCID: PMC9883190 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.105953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Revised: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The cervical epithelium undergoes changes in proliferation, differentiation, and function that are critical to ensure fertility and maintain pregnancy. Here, we identify cervical epithelial subtypes in non-pregnant, pregnant, and in labor mice using single-cell transcriptome and spatial analysis. We identify heterogeneous subpopulations of epithelia displaying spatial and temporal specificity. Notably in pregnancy, two goblet cell subtypes are present in the most luminal layers with one goblet population expanding earlier in pregnancy than the other goblet population. The goblet populations express novel protective factors and distinct mucosal networks. Single-cell analysis in a model of cervical epithelial barrier disruption indicates untimely basal cell proliferation precedes the expansion of goblet cells with diminished mucosal integrity. These data demonstrate how the cervical epithelium undergoes continuous remodeling to maintain dynamic states of homeostasis in pregnancy and labor, and provide a framework to understand perturbations in epithelial health that increase the risk of premature birth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anne Cooley
- Cecil H. and Ida Green Center for Reproductive Biology Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - ShanmugaPriyaa Madhukaran
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Elizabeth Stroebele
- Cecil H. and Ida Green Center for Reproductive Biology Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Mariano Colon Caraballo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Lei Wang
- Cecil H. and Ida Green Center for Reproductive Biology Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Yucel Akgul
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Gary C. Hon
- Cecil H. and Ida Green Center for Reproductive Biology Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
- Department of Bioinformatics, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Mala Mahendroo
- Cecil H. and Ida Green Center for Reproductive Biology Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Yang M, Cao Y, Zhang Z, Guo J, Hu C, Wang Z, Du Y. Low intensity ultrasound-mediated drug-loaded nanoparticles intravaginal drug delivery: an effective synergistic therapy scheme for treatment of vulvovaginal candidiasis. J Nanobiotechnology 2023; 21:53. [PMID: 36782198 PMCID: PMC9926847 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-023-01800-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/15/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a mucosal infection of the female lower genital tract for which treatment using conventional antifungal drugs shows limited effectiveness. Herein, amphotericin B-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)-polyethylene glycol (PLGA-PEG) nanoparticles (AmB-NPs) were fabricated and combined with low intensity ultrasound (US) to mediate AmB-NPs intravaginal drug delivery to achieve productive synergistic antifungal activity in a rabbit model of VVC. METHODS Polymeric AmB-NPs were fabricated by a double emulsion method and the physical characteristics and biosafety of nanoparticles were analyzed. The distribution and tissue permeability of nanoparticles after intravaginal ultrasound irradiation (1.0 MHz, 1.0 W/cm2, 5 min, 50% duty ratio) were observed in the vagina. The synergistic therapeutic activity of US-mediated AmB-NPs treatment was evaluated using an experimental rabbit model of VVC. Vaginal C. albicans colony counts, the pathological structure of the vagina epithelium, and Th1/Th2/Th17-type cytokine and oxidative stress levels were analyzed to investigate the therapeutic effect in vivo. RESULTS The prepared AmB-NPs showed an obvious shell and core structure with uniform size and good dispersion and displayed high biosafety and US-sensitive slow drug release. Ultrasound significantly enhanced nanoparticle transport through the mucus and promoted permeability in the vaginal tissue. US-mediated AmB-NPs treatment effectively increased drug sensitivity, even in the presence of the vaginal mucus barrier in vitro. On the seventh day after treatment in vivo, the combination treatment of AmB-NPs and US significantly reduced the fungal load in the vagina, achieving over 95% clearance rates, and also improved the pathological epithelium structural damage and glycogen secretion function. The expression of Th1 (IFN-γ, IL-2) and Th17 (IL-17) cytokines were significantly increased and Th2 (IL-6, IL-10) cytokines significantly decreased in the US + AmB-NP group. Furthermore, US-mediated AmB-NPs treatment effectively increased C. albicans intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and promoted vaginal oxidation and antioxidants to normal levels. CONCLUSION US-mediated drug-loaded nanoparticles with intravaginal drug delivery exhibited a productive synergistic antifungal effect, which may provide a new non-invasive, safe, and effective therapy for acute or recurrent fungal vaginitis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Min Yang
- grid.203458.80000 0000 8653 0555State Key Laboratory of Ultrasound in Medicine and Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, No. 1 Yixueyuan Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400016 China ,grid.203458.80000 0000 8653 0555Chongqing Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016 China
| | - Yuchao Cao
- grid.203458.80000 0000 8653 0555State Key Laboratory of Ultrasound in Medicine and Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, No. 1 Yixueyuan Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400016 China ,grid.203458.80000 0000 8653 0555Chongqing Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016 China
| | - Zhifei Zhang
- grid.203458.80000 0000 8653 0555State Key Laboratory of Ultrasound in Medicine and Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, No. 1 Yixueyuan Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400016 China ,grid.203458.80000 0000 8653 0555Chongqing Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016 China
| | - Jiajun Guo
- grid.203458.80000 0000 8653 0555State Key Laboratory of Ultrasound in Medicine and Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, No. 1 Yixueyuan Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400016 China ,grid.203458.80000 0000 8653 0555Chongqing Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016 China
| | - Can Hu
- grid.203458.80000 0000 8653 0555State Key Laboratory of Ultrasound in Medicine and Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, No. 1 Yixueyuan Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400016 China ,grid.203458.80000 0000 8653 0555Chongqing Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016 China
| | - Zhibiao Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Ultrasound in Medicine and Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, No. 1 Yixueyuan Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400016, China. .,Chongqing Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.
| | - Yonghong Du
- State Key Laboratory of Ultrasound in Medicine and Engineering, College of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, No. 1 Yixueyuan Road, Yuzhong District, Chongqing, 400016, China. .,Chongqing Key Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, 400016, China.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Aggarwal N, Kitano S, Puah GRY, Kittelmann S, Hwang IY, Chang MW. Microbiome and Human Health: Current Understanding, Engineering, and Enabling Technologies. Chem Rev 2023; 123:31-72. [PMID: 36317983 PMCID: PMC9837825 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrev.2c00431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 54.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
The human microbiome is composed of a collection of dynamic microbial communities that inhabit various anatomical locations in the body. Accordingly, the coevolution of the microbiome with the host has resulted in these communities playing a profound role in promoting human health. Consequently, perturbations in the human microbiome can cause or exacerbate several diseases. In this Review, we present our current understanding of the relationship between human health and disease development, focusing on the microbiomes found across the digestive, respiratory, urinary, and reproductive systems as well as the skin. We further discuss various strategies by which the composition and function of the human microbiome can be modulated to exert a therapeutic effect on the host. Finally, we examine technologies such as multiomics approaches and cellular reprogramming of microbes that can enable significant advancements in microbiome research and engineering.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nikhil Aggarwal
- NUS
Synthetic Biology for Clinical and Technological Innovation (SynCTI), National University of Singapore, Singapore 117456, Singapore
- Synthetic
Biology Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117456, Singapore
| | - Shohei Kitano
- NUS
Synthetic Biology for Clinical and Technological Innovation (SynCTI), National University of Singapore, Singapore 117456, Singapore
- Synthetic
Biology Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117456, Singapore
| | - Ginette Ru Ying Puah
- NUS
Synthetic Biology for Clinical and Technological Innovation (SynCTI), National University of Singapore, Singapore 117456, Singapore
- Synthetic
Biology Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117456, Singapore
- Wilmar-NUS
(WIL@NUS) Corporate Laboratory, National
University of Singapore, Singapore 117599, Singapore
- Wilmar
International Limited, Singapore 138568, Singapore
| | - Sandra Kittelmann
- Wilmar-NUS
(WIL@NUS) Corporate Laboratory, National
University of Singapore, Singapore 117599, Singapore
- Wilmar
International Limited, Singapore 138568, Singapore
| | - In Young Hwang
- NUS
Synthetic Biology for Clinical and Technological Innovation (SynCTI), National University of Singapore, Singapore 117456, Singapore
- Synthetic
Biology Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117456, Singapore
- Department
of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117596, Singapore
- Singapore
Institute of Technology, Singapore 138683, Singapore
| | - Matthew Wook Chang
- NUS
Synthetic Biology for Clinical and Technological Innovation (SynCTI), National University of Singapore, Singapore 117456, Singapore
- Synthetic
Biology Translational Research Programme, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117456, Singapore
- Wilmar-NUS
(WIL@NUS) Corporate Laboratory, National
University of Singapore, Singapore 117599, Singapore
- Department
of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore 117596, Singapore
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Xu ZM, Zhang J, Hong XL, Liu J, Yang ZZ, Pan M. Comparison of two stitches versus one stitch for emergency cervical cerclage to prevent preterm birth in singleton pregnancies. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2023; 160:98-105. [PMID: 35396704 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.14213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the efficacy of two stitches versus one stitch in women with emergency cervical cerclage. METHODS A retrospective case-control study of 26 women with singleton pregnancies who underwent emergency cervical cerclage before 26 weeks. A comparison was made between patients with two stitches versus one stitch at the time of cervical cerclage placement. The primary outcome was gestational age (GA) at delivery and preterm birth (PTB) before 37, 34, 32, 28, and 24 weeks. RESULTS Average GA at delivery in the two-stitches group was significantly greater than in the one-stitch group (32.71 ± 5.54 weeks vs 27.99 ± 4.70 weeks, P = 0.028). There were significant decreases in the incidence of spontaneous PTB at <34 weeks and less than 32 weeks in the two-stitches group (P = 0.034; P = 0.013, respectively). The neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admissions rate and length of stay in the NICU in the two-stitches group were significantly reduced (P = 0.035 and P = 0.018, respectively). However, there was no significant difference in neonatal mortality between the two groups. CONCLUSION Compared with emergency cervical cerclage placement with one stitch, the procedure with two stitches can prolong the pregnancy and improve the neonatal prognosis more effectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Min Xu
- Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Xiao-Lan Hong
- Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Zhen-Zhen Yang
- Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Mian Pan
- Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Shapiro RL, DeLong K, Zulfiqar F, Carter D, Better M, Ensign LM. In vitro and ex vivo models for evaluating vaginal drug delivery systems. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 191:114543. [PMID: 36208729 PMCID: PMC9940824 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Vaginal drug delivery systems are often preferred for treating a variety of diseases and conditions of the female reproductive tract (FRT), as delivery can be more targeted with less systemic side effects. However, there are many anatomical and biological barriers to effective treatment via the vaginal route. Further, biocompatibility with the local tissue and microbial microenvironment is desired. A variety of in vitro and ex vivo models are described herein for evaluating the physicochemical properties and toxicity profile of vaginal drug delivery systems. Deciding whether to utilize organoids in vitro or fresh human cervicovaginal mucus ex vivo requires careful consideration of the intended use and the formulation characteristics. Optimally, in vitro and ex vivo experimentation will inform or predict in vivo performance, and examples are given that describe utilization of a range of methods from in vitro to in vivo. Lastly, we highlight more advanced model systems for other mucosa as inspiration for the future in model development for the FRT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachel L Shapiro
- Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 400 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, 3400 N Charles St., Baltimore, MD 21218, USA.
| | - Kevin DeLong
- Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 400 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1800 Orleans St., Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
| | - Fareeha Zulfiqar
- Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 400 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1800 Orleans St., Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
| | - Davell Carter
- Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 400 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 725 N Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
| | - Marina Better
- Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 400 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 725 N Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD 21287, USA.
| | - Laura M Ensign
- Center for Nanomedicine at the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 400 N Broadway, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1800 Orleans St., Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; Department of Pharmacology and Molecular Sciences, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 725 N Wolfe St., Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; Department of Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, 3400 N. Charles St., Baltimore, MD 21218, USA; Departments of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Infectious Diseases, and Oncology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1800 Orleans St., Baltimore, MD 21287, USA; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Johns Hopkins University, 3400 N. Charles St., Baltimore, MD 21218, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Izadifar Z, Sontheimer-Phelps A, Lubamba BA, Bai H, Fadel C, Stejskalova A, Ozkan A, Dasgupta Q, Bein A, Junaid A, Gulati A, Mahajan G, Kim S, LoGrande NT, Naziripour A, Ingber DE. Modeling mucus physiology and pathophysiology in human organs-on-chips. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2022; 191:114542. [PMID: 36179916 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2022.114542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
The surfaces of human internal organs are lined by a mucus layer that ensures symbiotic relationships with commensal microbiome while protecting against potentially injurious environmental chemicals, toxins, and pathogens, and disruption of this layer can contribute to disease development. Studying mucus biology has been challenging due to the lack of physiologically relevant human in vitro models. Here we review recent progress that has been made in the development of human organ-on-a-chip microfluidic culture models that reconstitute epithelial tissue barriers and physiologically relevant mucus layers with a focus on lung, colon, small intestine, cervix and vagina. These organ-on-a-chip models that incorporate dynamic fluid flow, air-liquid interfaces, and physiologically relevant mechanical cues can be used to study mucus composition, mechanics, and structure, as well as investigate its contributions to human health and disease with a level of biomimicry not possible in the past.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zohreh Izadifar
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | | | - Bob A Lubamba
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Haiqing Bai
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Cicely Fadel
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Anna Stejskalova
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Alican Ozkan
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Queeny Dasgupta
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Amir Bein
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Abidemi Junaid
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Aakanksha Gulati
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Gautam Mahajan
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Seongmin Kim
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Nina T LoGrande
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Arash Naziripour
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States
| | - Donald E Ingber
- Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering, Harvard University, Boston, MA 02115, United States; Vascular Biology Program, Boston Children's Hospital and Department of Pathology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, United States; Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Cambridge, MA 02138, United Kingdom.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Ueda Y, Mogami H, Kawamura Y, Takakura M, Inohaya A, Yasuda E, Matsuzaka Y, Chigusa Y, Ito S, Mandai M, Kondoh E. Cervical MUC5B and MUC5AC are Barriers to Ascending Pathogens During Pregnancy. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2022; 107:3010-3021. [PMID: 36112402 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgac545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Cervical excision is a risk factor for preterm birth. This suggests that the cervix plays an essential role in the maintenance of pregnancy. OBJECTIVE We investigated the role of the cervix through proteomic analysis of cervicovaginal fluid (CVF) from pregnant women after trachelectomy surgery, the natural model of a lack of cervix. METHODS The proteome compositions of CVF in pregnant women after trachelectomy were compared with those in control pregnant women by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry and label-free relative quantification. MUC5B/AC expression in the human and murine cervices was analyzed by immunohistochemistry. Regulation of MUC5B/AC expression by sex steroids was assessed in primary human cervical epithelial cells. In a pregnant mouse model of ascending infection, Escherichia coli or phosphate-buffered saline was inoculated into the vagina at 16.5 dpc, and the cervices were collected at 17.5 dpc. RESULTS The expression of MUC5B/5AC in cervicovaginal fluid was decreased in pregnant women after trachelectomy concomitant with the anatomical loss of cervical glands. Post-trachelectomy women delivered at term when MUC5B/AC abundance was greater than the mean normalized abundance of the control. MUC5B levels in the cervix were increased during pregnancy in both humans and mice. MUC5B mRNA was increased by addition of estradiol in human cervical epithelial cells, whereas MUC5AC was not. In a pregnant mouse model of ascending infection, E. coli was trapped in the MUC5B/AC-expressing mucin of the cervix, and neutrophils were colocalized there. CONCLUSION Endocervical MUC5B and MUC5AC may be barriers to ascending pathogens during pregnancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yusuke Ueda
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, 54 Shogoin-kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Haruta Mogami
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, 54 Shogoin-kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Yosuke Kawamura
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, 54 Shogoin-kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Masahito Takakura
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, 54 Shogoin-kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Asako Inohaya
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, 54 Shogoin-kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Eriko Yasuda
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, 54 Shogoin-kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Yu Matsuzaka
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, 54 Shogoin-kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Yoshitsugu Chigusa
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, 54 Shogoin-kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Shinji Ito
- Medical Research Support Center, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Yoshida-Konoe-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8501, Japan
| | - Masaki Mandai
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, 54 Shogoin-kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| | - Eiji Kondoh
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Kyoto University Graduate School of Medicine, 54 Shogoin-kawahara-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Collins MK, McCutcheon CR, Petroff MG. Impact of Estrogen and Progesterone on Immune Cells and Host–Pathogen Interactions in the Lower Female Reproductive Tract. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2022; 209:1437-1449. [DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.2200454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 08/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
|
46
|
N-glycosylation of cervicovaginal fluid reflects microbial community, immune activity, and pregnancy status. Sci Rep 2022; 12:16948. [PMID: 36216861 PMCID: PMC9551102 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-20608-7] [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: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Human cervicovaginal fluid (CVF) is a complex, functionally important and glycan rich biological fluid, fundamental in mediating physiological events associated with reproductive health. Using a comprehensive glycomic strategy we reveal an extremely rich and complex N-glycome in CVF of pregnant and non-pregnant women, abundant in paucimannose and high mannose glycans, complex glycans with 2-4 N-Acetyllactosamine (LacNAc) antennae, and Poly-LacNAc glycans decorated with fucosylation and sialylation. N-glycosylation profiles were observed to differ in relation to pregnancy status, microbial composition, immune activation, and pregnancy outcome. Compared to CVF from women experiencing term birth, CVF from women who subsequently experienced preterm birth showed lower sialylation, which correlated to the presence of a diverse microbiome, and higher fucosylation, which correlated positively to pro-inflammatory cytokine concentration. This study is the first step towards better understanding the role of cervicovaginal glycans in reproductive health, their contribution to the mechanism of microbial driven preterm birth, and their potential for preventative therapy.
Collapse
|
47
|
Tripathy S, Nallasamy S, Mahendroo M. Progesterone and its receptor signaling in cervical remodeling: Mechanisms of physiological actions and therapeutic implications. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2022; 223:106137. [PMID: 35690241 PMCID: PMC9509468 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2022.106137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
The remodeling of the cervix from a closed rigid structure to one that can open sufficiently for passage of a term infant is achieved by a complex series of molecular events that in large part are regulated by the steroid hormones progesterone and estrogen. Among hormonal influences, progesterone exerts a dominant role for most of pregnancy to initiate a loss of tissue strength yet maintain competence in a phase termed softening. Equally important are the molecular events that abrogate progesterone function in late pregnancy to allow a loss of tissue competence and strength during cervical ripening and dilation. In this review, we focus on current understanding by which progesterone receptor signaling for the majority of pregnancy followed by a loss/shift in progesterone receptor action at the end of pregnancy, collectively ensure cervical remodeling as necessary for successful parturition.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sudeshna Tripathy
- Division of Basic Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Cecil H. and Ida Green Center for Reproductive Biology Sciences, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Shanmugasundaram Nallasamy
- Division of Basic Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Cecil H. and Ida Green Center for Reproductive Biology Sciences, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA
| | - Mala Mahendroo
- Division of Basic Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA; Cecil H. and Ida Green Center for Reproductive Biology Sciences, The University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Puri V, Kaur VP, Singh A, Singh C. Recent advances on drug delivery applications of mucopenetrative/mucoadhesive particles: A review. J Drug Deliv Sci Technol 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jddst.2022.103712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
49
|
Acupuncture for Female Infertility: Discussion on Action Mechanism and Application. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:3854117. [PMID: 35832528 PMCID: PMC9273356 DOI: 10.1155/2022/3854117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
A higher incidence of female infertility has been reported with an unexpectedly early appearance in recent years. The female infertility treatment and application of assisted reproductive technology have recently gained immense interest from scientists. Many studies have discussed the beneficial effects of acupuncture on female infertility. With advancements in science and medical technology, acupuncture-related research has increased in investigating its effectiveness in treating female infertility. This review focuses on a compilation of research in recent years on acupuncture for female infertility treatment and the exploration of the underlying mechanism. For this purpose, literature was searched using various search engines like PubMed, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. The search was refined by only focusing on recent studies on acupuncture effectiveness and mechanism in female infertility and evaluating pregnancy outcomes.
Collapse
|
50
|
Lacroix G, Gouyer V, Rocher M, Gottrand F, Desseyn JL. A porous cervical mucus plug leads to preterm birth induced by experimental vaginal infection in mice. iScience 2022; 25:104526. [PMID: 35754724 PMCID: PMC9218384 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2022.104526] [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: 12/18/2021] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
During gestation, the cervical mucus plug (CMP) acts to seal the cervical canal. Pilot studies in humans have suggested that a porous CMP may increase the risk of uterine infection and preterm birth. We examined the gel-forming content of the mouse vagina and the CMP. We experimentally infected pregnant mice by intravaginal administration of pathogens related to preterm birth in humans. We found that the epithelium in both the vagina and cervical canal of pregnant mice produced the two gel-forming mucins Muc5b and Muc5ac. The CMP was porous in Muc5b-deficient mice for which intravaginal administration of Escherichia coli O 55 led to the activation of an inflammatory response in the uterus and 100% preterm births. The pathogen was found in the mucus plug and uterus. This study shows that Muc5b is essential for the in vivo barrier function and the prevention of uterine infections during gestation. Muc5b and Muc5ac are the main gel-forming mucins of the mouse vagina and cervical canal During pregnancy, a cervical mucus plug (CMP) is formed and seals the cervical canal Muc5b-deficient CMP is highly porous Inflammation following vaginal infection causes preterm birth in Muc5b-deficient mice
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Lacroix
- University Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1286 - Infinite, 59000 Lille, France
| | - Valérie Gouyer
- University Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1286 - Infinite, 59000 Lille, France
| | - Mylène Rocher
- University Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1286 - Infinite, 59000 Lille, France
| | - Frédéric Gottrand
- University Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1286 - Infinite, 59000 Lille, France
| | - Jean-Luc Desseyn
- University Lille, Inserm, CHU Lille, U1286 - Infinite, 59000 Lille, France
| |
Collapse
|