|
1
|
Tinelli A, Andjić M, Morciano A, Pecorella G, Malvasi A, D’Amato A, Sparić R. Uterine Aging and Reproduction: Dealing with a Puzzle Biologic Topic. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 25:322. [PMID: 38203493 PMCID: PMC10778867 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25010322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Uterine aging is the process of the senescence of uterine tissue, observed in all middle-aged mammals. Since the aging-related changes in the uterus are associated with infertility and poor pregnancy outcomes, with a lack of studies discussing uterine aging, authors reviewed uterine aging and its consequences on reproduction. MEDLINE, Scopus, and PubMed searches during the years 1990-2023 were performed using a combination of keywords and terms on such topics. According to the author's evaluation, articles were identified, selected, and included in this narrative review. The aging process has an unfavorable impact on the uterus of mammals. There are different and selected molecular pathways related to uterine aging in humans and animals. Uterine aging impairs the function of the uterine myometrium, neurofibers of the human uterus, and human endometrium. These biological pathways modulate oxidative stress, anti-inflammatory response, inflammation, mitochondrial function, DNA damage repair, etc. All these dysregulations have a role in poorer reproductive performance and pregnancy outcomes in older mammals. The most recent data suggest that uterine aging is accompanied by genetic, epigenetic, metabolic, and immunological changes. Uterine aging has a negative impact on the reproductive performance in mammalian species, but it could be potentially modulated by pharmacological agents, such as quercetin and dasatinib.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Tinelli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and CERICSAL (CEntro di RIcercaClinicoSALentino), “Veris delli Ponti Hospital”, 73020 Scorrano, LE, Italy
| | - Mladen Andjić
- Clinic for Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Clinical Centre of Serbia, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (M.A.); (R.S.)
| | - Andrea Morciano
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Pia Fondazione “Card. G. Panico”, 73039 Tricase, LE, Italy;
| | - Giovanni Pecorella
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Saarland University, 66421 Homburg, Saar, Germany;
| | - Antonio Malvasi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of Bari, 70121 Bari, BA, Italy;
| | - Antonio D’Amato
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Bari, 70121 Bari, BA, Italy;
| | - Radmila Sparić
- Clinic for Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Clinical Centre of Serbia, 11000 Belgrade, Serbia; (M.A.); (R.S.)
- School of Medicine, University of Belgrade, 11080 Belgrade, Serbia
| |
Collapse
|
|
2
|
Abstract
Uterine aging is an important factor that impacts fertility, reproductive health, and uterus-related diseases; however, it remains poorly explored. Functionally, these disturbances have been associated with an abnormal hormonal response in the endometrium and decreased endometrial receptivity. Based on emerging evidence, these alterations are mediated via the senescence of endometrial stem cells and impaired decidualization of endometrial stromal cells. Multiple molecular activities may participate in uterine aging, including oxidative stress, inflammation, fibrosis, DNA damage response, and cellular senescence. Over the past decade, several protective strategies targeting these biological processes have afforded promising results, including stem cell therapy, anti-aging drugs, and herbal medicines. However, the currently available evidence is fragmented and scattered. Here, we summarize the most recent findings regarding uterine aging, including functional and structural alterations and potential cellular and molecular mechanisms, and discuss potential protective interventions against uterine aging. Thereby, we hope to provide a comprehensive understanding of the pathophysiological processes and underlying mechanisms associated with uterine aging, as well as improve fecundity and reproductive outcomes in females of advanced reproductive age.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yaling Wu
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Milu Li
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jinjin Zhang
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| | - Shixuan Wang
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
| |
Collapse
|