Bo Lindblom - Academia.edu (original) (raw)
Papers by Bo Lindblom
Human Reproduction, 1999
The aim of this investigation was to compare the response of small arteries of the human tubo-ova... more The aim of this investigation was to compare the response of small arteries of the human tubo-ovarian vasculature to certain vasoactive agents. Ring preparations of the arteries were isolated and mounted in tissue chambers for isometric recording of wall tension. The arteries were exposed to the vasoactive agents adrenalin, prostaglandin F 2α and two vasopressin analogues. Adrenalin, prostaglandin F 2α , lysin-vasopressin and triglycyl-lysine-vasopressin all produced powerful vasoconstriction, the greatest efficacy being shown by and lysine-vasopressin. The maximum response occurred after addition of a third compound to a combination of two, irrespective of which combination was used. Adrenalin showed faster contraction velocity than the other agents. The results indicate that the human tubo-ovarian arteries may be constricted by a variety of physiological and pharmacological stimuli, at least partly acting via different effector mechanisms. It is proposed that these vasoconstrictive agents-alone or in combination-may be useful in conjunction with gynaecological endoscopic surgery, e.g. in tubal pregnancy or ovarian cysts.
Molecular human reproduction, 2001
Angiogenesis is an important but poorly understood process of the cycling endometrium. Endometria... more Angiogenesis is an important but poorly understood process of the cycling endometrium. Endometrial angiogenesis is believed to be regulated by angiogenic growth factors under the influence of ovarian steroids. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its receptors VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2, fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF-2) and its receptors FGFR-1 and FGFR-2, as well as epidermal growth factor (EGF) and its receptor EGFR are believed to be important in the control of angiogenesis in the human endometrium. Their expression was examined by immunohistochemistry in endometrial biopsies obtained from 16 healthy women with proven fertility. Western blot analysis showed that the primary antibodies used were specific for their epitopes. We found that VEGF, FGF-2, EGF and their receptors were all expressed, especially in and/or around blood vessels, thus supporting the hypothesis that these peptides contribute to the regulation of angiogenesis and blood vessel function in the human endometrium. The receptors VEGFR-1, VEGFR-2, FGFR-2 and EGFR were co-expressed and exhibited their strongest expression during the beginning of the secretory phase, coinciding with the developing endometrial oedema and formation of a complex subepithelial capillary plexus. No correlation was seen between receptor expression and stromal blood vessel density.
Human Reproduction, 1997
assisted procreation clinical effect which remains unexplained to date.
Obstetrical & Gynecological Survey, 1992
Objective: Women with ectopic pregnancy (EP) who have been operated on by laparoscopy are thought... more Objective: Women with ectopic pregnancy (EP) who have been operated on by laparoscopy are thought to have improved subsequent fertility, probably because of less adhesion formation. We aimed to evaluate the adhesion formation after laparoscopy as compared with laparotomy in a randomized trial. Design: One hundred five patients with tubal pregnancy were stratified with regard to age and risk factors and randomized to surgery by laparoscopy or laparotomy. To evaluate adhesion formation and tubal status, 73 patients with strong desire of pregnancy underwent a second-look laparoscopy. The adhesion status at the ipsilateral and contralateral side at primary surgery was compared with the status at second-look laparoscopy. Results: Patients operated on by laparotomy developed significantly more adhesions at the operated side than patients operated on by laparoscopy (P < 0.001). Substantially more patients in the laparotomy group underwent adhesiolysis at second-look laparoscopy than did patients in the laparoscopy group. Tubal patency did not differ between the groups. Conclusions: Laparoscopic treatment of EP results in less impairment of the pelvic status compared with conventional conservative surgery.
Molecular Human Reproduction, 2001
Angiogenesis is an important but poorly understood process of the cycling endometrium. Endometria... more Angiogenesis is an important but poorly understood process of the cycling endometrium. Endometrial angiogenesis is believed to be regulated by angiogenic growth factors under the influence of ovarian steroids. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its receptors VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2, fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF-2) and its receptors FGFR-1 and FGFR-2, as well as epidermal growth factor (EGF) and its receptor EGFR are believed to be important in the control of angiogenesis in the human endometrium. Their expression was examined by immunohistochemistry in endometrial biopsies obtained from 16 healthy women with proven fertility. Western blot analysis showed that the primary antibodies used were specific for their epitopes. We found that VEGF, FGF-2, EGF and their receptors were all expressed, especially in and/or around blood vessels, thus supporting the hypothesis that these peptides contribute to the regulation of angiogenesis and blood vessel function in the human endometrium. The receptors VEGFR-1, VEGFR-2, FGFR-2 and EGFR were co-expressed and exhibited their strongest expression during the beginning of the secretory phase, coinciding with the developing endometrial oedema and formation of a complex subepithelial capillary plexus. No correlation was seen between receptor expression and stromal blood vessel density.
Molecular Human Reproduction, 1999
Two subpopulations of steroidogenic cells exist in the corpus luteum of most species. The aims of... more Two subpopulations of steroidogenic cells exist in the corpus luteum of most species. The aims of the present study were to characterize these cells and to study their function during long-term culture. Human corpora lutea from early and late luteal phases were treated by mechanical and enzymatic digestion, followed by density sedimentation. Five distinct cell bands were obtained, two of which produced large amounts of progesterone. These were characterized according to density, size, steroidogenic enzymes, and numbers. More than 75% of cells expressed immunoreactive 3β-hydroxydehydrogenase (3β-HSD). Cells of higher density/smaller size were obtained in increasing numbers during the luteal phase and were more numerous compared with large cells. Under basal, human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG)-, and prostaglandin E 2-stimulated culture conditions, progesterone synthesis was greater in large cells of the early, but not late, luteal phase. Both cell fractions obtained from late, in contrast to early, luteal phase increased their basal progesterone production during the culture period of 9 days. We conclude that this technique for luteal cell isolation in the human yields two distinct subpopulations of steroidogenic cells, which respond differently to luteotrophic stimuli. We also conclude that cells of late luteal phase readily increase their progesterone synthesis over a period of 9 days, indicating a transition to longevity.
Hypertension in Pregnancy, 1998
ABSTRACT Objecrive: To compare myometrial resistance arteries from women with preeclampsia and no... more ABSTRACT Objecrive: To compare myometrial resistance arteries from women with preeclampsia and normal pregnant women with respect to myogenic behavior, acetylcholine-mediated dilatation, and distensibility. Study Design: Arteries from women with preeclampsia (n = 14) and healthy term pregnant women (n = 17) were studied in a pressurized arteriograph system. Myogenic tone was evaluated during increments in intraluminal pressure from 20 to 120 mm Hg, as well as distensibility index at the same pressure steps in Ca2+-free solution substituted with papaverine. Endotheliumdependent relaxation was assessed by evaluating the response to acetylcholine (10−6 M) in the absence and presence of Nω-nitro-L-arginine in arteries pressurized at a constant intraluminal pressure of 70 mm Hg. Results: Overall myogenic tone did not differ between the arteries from the two patient groups studied, but the slope of the pressure-myogenic tone relationship in arteries from women with preeclampsia was significantly different (positive). Relaxation to acetylcholine was impaired in arteries from women with preeclampsia (6 ω 1% versus 18 t 4%, p < 0.05), whereas inhibition of nitric oxide synthase with Nω-nitro-L-arginine abolished this response in both patients groups. The distensibility index (Ca2+-free solution plus papaverine) of arteries from women with preeclampsia was increased as compared to arteries from normal pregnant women (p <0.05). Conclusions: Pressure-induced myogenic tone and impaired acetylcholine-mediated vasodilatation in myometrial resistance arteries from women with preeclampsia might contribute to the increased vascular resistance in the uterine circulation seen in preeclampsia. The increased distensibility of the myornetrial arteries from women with preeclampsia might represent a compen-satory mechanism to preserve the blood flow in the uteroplacental vascular bed.
Human Reproduction, 1999
The aim of this investigation was to compare the response of small arteries of the human tubo-ova... more The aim of this investigation was to compare the response of small arteries of the human tubo-ovarian vasculature to certain vasoactive agents. Ring preparations of the arteries were isolated and mounted in tissue chambers for isometric recording of wall tension. The arteries were exposed to the vasoactive agents adrenalin, prostaglandin F 2α and two vasopressin analogues. Adrenalin, prostaglandin F 2α , lysin-vasopressin and triglycyl-lysine-vasopressin all produced powerful vasoconstriction, the greatest efficacy being shown by and lysine-vasopressin. The maximum response occurred after addition of a third compound to a combination of two, irrespective of which combination was used. Adrenalin showed faster contraction velocity than the other agents. The results indicate that the human tubo-ovarian arteries may be constricted by a variety of physiological and pharmacological stimuli, at least partly acting via different effector mechanisms. It is proposed that these vasoconstrictive agents-alone or in combination-may be useful in conjunction with gynaecological endoscopic surgery, e.g. in tubal pregnancy or ovarian cysts.
Gynecologic and Obstetric Investigation, 2003
The content of RNA and DNA in human myometrium and fibroids obtained at different endocrine condi... more The content of RNA and DNA in human myometrium and fibroids obtained at different endocrine conditions varied, with the highest RNA/DNA ratio in tissues from pregnant patients, intermediate ratios in women during the menstrual cycle and the lowest in tissues from postmenopausal and GnRHa-treated patients. mRNA expression of two house-keeping genes, γ-actin and GAPDH, was highest in myometrium from pregnant women, intermediate in untreated women of fertile age and lowest in tissues from GnRHa-treated and postmenopausal women. To control for degradation of nucleic acids when measuring mRNA expression, we suggest additional analysis of gene(s), where the expression pattern is known, and that expression, whenever possible, is related to DNA, which is a more stable parameter than RNA and total nucleic acids, when there are differences in proliferation between tissues and/or groups of patients.
Fertility and Sterility, 2002
Objective: To determine mRNA and protein expression of the progesterone receptor (PR) and insulin... more Objective: To determine mRNA and protein expression of the progesterone receptor (PR) and insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) in myometrium and fibroids. Design: Retrospective clinical study. Setting: Hospital-based and university-affiliated research laboratories. Patient(s): Twelve women in the proliferative phase and six women treated with GnRH analogue (GnRH-a). Intervention(s): Blood sampling and collection of myometrium and fibroids. Main Outcome Measure(s): PR and IGF-I mRNA levels in fibroids and myometrium were analyzed by solution hybridization and in situ hybridization whereas the proteins were localized by immunohistochemistry. Result(s): Fibroids and myometrium from women in the proliferative phase showed significantly higher PR mRNA than the corresponding tissues from GnRH-a᎑treated women. The amount of cells positively stained for PR-AB and PR-B in fibroids and myometrium decreased after GnRH-a treatment compared with in the proliferative phase. The IGF-I mRNA in both fibroids and myometrium in the proliferative phase was significantly higher than those after GnRH-a treatment. The immunostaining of IGF-I showed no difference between the two tissues. There was weaker immunostaining in the GnRH-a᎑treated group compared with in the proliferative phase group. Conclusion(s): The shrinkage of fibroids after steroid deprivation is associated with alterations in PR and IGF-I expression.
European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, 1986
Two hundred and five patients with ectopic pregnancy in a well-defined Swedish population were in... more Two hundred and five patients with ectopic pregnancy in a well-defined Swedish population were interviewed with respect to prior disease and pregnancy histories as well as various constitutional and socioeconomic factors. The results were compared with those of two control groups, i.e. 110 early pregnant women intending to continue the gestation to term as well as 101 women seeking voluntary interruption of pregnancy. The results provide evidence that several factors may be involved in the etiology of ectopic pregnancy, including abdominal (or pelvic) surgery, previous ectopic pregnancy and pelvic inflammatory disease. Furthermore, a history of infertility is strongly correlated to ectopic pregnancy. On the other hand, there is no evidence that uncomplicated spontaneous or induced abortion, parity or marital status are important factors.
European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, 1993
Experientia, 1985
Cervical specimens were obtained by needle biopsy in connection with caesarean section at term pr... more Cervical specimens were obtained by needle biopsy in connection with caesarean section at term pregnancy. The preparations were superfused in an organ chamber and contractions were registered isometrically. Prostaglandin (PG) E 2 and F2~ inhibited spontaneous contractions. The stimulatory action of noradrenaline was not influenced by PGF2~ but was reduced by PGE 2 whereas both PGs abolished the excitatory effect of oxytocin.
BMJ, 1998
Objectives: To analyse trends in rates of genital chlamydial infection and ectopic pregnancy betw... more Objectives: To analyse trends in rates of genital chlamydial infection and ectopic pregnancy between 1985 and 1995 in a county in Sweden. Setting: Uppsala county where screening for chlamydial infection, treatment, and contact tracing has been widespread and where ectopic pregnancies are recorded. Methods: Rates of chlamydial infections and ectopic pregnancy between 1985 and 1995 were calculated for women aged 20-39 years. Poisson and linear regression were used to examine the association between the risk of ectopic pregnancy and the current rates of chlamydial infection and rates of chlamydial infection from up to 5 years earlier. Main outcome measures: Rates of chlamydial infection per 100 examinations, rates of ectopic pregnancy per 1000 pregnancies, rate ratios and 95% confidence intervals for an increase in chlamydial infections of 5 new cases per 100 examinations. Results: 103 870 cervical samples from women aged 15-39 years were analysed; 5648 (5.4%) were positive for chlamydia. 51 630 pregnancies were analysed; 930 (1.8%) were ectopic. Both rates declined over time. For women aged 20-24 years there was a strong correlation between the rate of ectopic pregnancy and the rate of chlamydial infection in the same year (r = 0.93, P < 0.001); among older women correlations were stronger with rates of chlamydial infection occurring 1 or 2 years earlier. In Poisson regression ectopic pregnancy was most strongly associated with the current rate of chlamydial infection among women aged 20-24 (rate ratio 1.85, 95% confidence interval 1.44 to 2.38), with the rate of infection 1 year earlier among 25-29 year olds (rate ratio 1.72, 1.33 to 2.22) and 30-34 year olds (rate ratio 2.27, 1.53 to 3.37); and with the rate 2 years earlier among 35 to 39 year olds (rate ratio 2.58, 1.45 to 4.60). Conclusions: Declining rates of genital chlamydial infections have probably led to a fall in the rate of ectopic pregnancies. The timing of the decline in the rate of ectopic pregnancies varies with age. Among young women falling rates of chlamydial infection have been accompanied by an immediate reduction in the rate of ectopic pregnancy.
Biology of Reproduction, 1985
Small muscle strips were dissected from the circular and longitudinal muscle layers of the human ... more Small muscle strips were dissected from the circular and longitudinal muscle layers of the human oviduct. The preparations showed rhythmic spontaneous activity when perfused by Krebs-Ringer buffer. Excitatory effects of the prostaglandin (PG) precursor arachidonic acid were totally blocked by the cyclooxygenase inhibitors 5,8,11, 14-eicosatetraynoic acid (ETYA) and indomethacm. The latter drugs also caused a reversible inhibition of spontaneous activity in both muscle layers. After total inhibition produced by ETYA, the initial activity was restored by adding low concentrations of prostaglandin F20 (PGF20) to the medium. PGE2 was able to reestablish the activity only in the longitudinal layer. It is concluded that isolated smooth muscle of the human oviduct has the capacity of generating PGs from both endogenous and exogenous substrate. The data also suggest that the formation of PGF20 is a prerequisite for maintenance of normal tubal contractions.
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2000
We evaluated the role of endothelium-derived nitric oxide and endothelin 1 in the modulation of m... more We evaluated the role of endothelium-derived nitric oxide and endothelin 1 in the modulation of myogenic tone, norepinephrine-induced tone, and flow-mediated responses in resistance arteries from pregnant women at term. Arteries (approximately 200 microm at 50 mm Hg; n = 27) were dissected from myometrial biopsies obtained from women undergoing elective cesarean delivery at term and mounted in a pressure arteriograph. Responses to intraluminal flow, pressure, and norepinephrine were studied in the absence and presence of the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor Nomega-nitro-L-arginine and the endothelin-converting enzyme inhibitor phosphoramidon. Pressure-induced (80 mm Hg) myogenic tone was significantly enhanced after incubation with Nomega-nitro-L-arginine (33% +/- 8% vs 24% +/- 4%; P <.05), whereas phosphoramidon significantly reduced myogenic tone (24% +/- 5% vs 33% +/- 5%; P <.05). A combination of Nomega-nitro-L -arginine and phosphoramidon did not affect myogenic tone. Norepinephrine-induced tone was significantly enhanced after nitric oxide synthase inhibition (49% +/- 6% vs 41% +/- 5%; P <.05) but was not affected by phosphoramidon. Flow-mediated dilatation was increased in the presence of phosphoramidon compared with flow-induced dilatation in physiologic salt solution (maximum dilatation, 57% +/- 12% vs 30% +/- 5%; analysis of variance, P <.05), and all flow-induced dilatation was abolished by Nomega-nitro-L -arginine. Nitric oxide and endothelin 1 may play a significant role in modulation of myogenic tone and flow-mediated responses in the resistance vasculature of the uterine circulation in normal pregnancy.
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 1997
Our purpose was to compare myometrial and omental resistance arteries from term pregnant women wi... more Our purpose was to compare myometrial and omental resistance arteries from term pregnant women with respect to myogenic behavior in the presence or absence of a nitric oxide synthase inhibitor and to compare distensibility and acetylcholine-mediated dilatation in these vessels. Intramyometrial (n = 17) and omental (n = 14) resistance arteries from term normal pregnant women were studied in a pressurized arteriograph system. Myogenic tone was evaluated during increments in intraluminal pressure from 20 to 120 mm Hg with and without inhibition of nitric oxide synthase. Endothelium-dependent relaxation was assessed by evaluating the response to acetylcholine (10(-6) mol/L) in arteries pressurized at 70 mm Hg. Myogenic tone was greater at all pressure steps in the myometrial than in the omental arteries (p < 0.05). Inhibition of nitric oxide synthase with N(omega)-nitro-L-arginine had no influence on myogenic tone in either group. Relaxation to acetylcholine was greater in myometrial (18% +/- 4%) compared with omental vessels (7% +/- 2%, p < 0.05). The passive distensibility (Ca++-free solution and in the presence of papaverine) of arteries from the myometrium and the omentum was similar. Normal pregnancy is associated with different mechanical properties of resistance vessels from the two vascular beds studied. Basal nitric oxide release does not modify myogenic tone, at least under no-flow conditions. Acetylcholine-induced relaxation is greater in myometrial than in omental arteries.
Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica, 2001
ABSTRACT
Human Reproduction, 1999
The aim of this investigation was to compare the response of small arteries of the human tubo-ova... more The aim of this investigation was to compare the response of small arteries of the human tubo-ovarian vasculature to certain vasoactive agents. Ring preparations of the arteries were isolated and mounted in tissue chambers for isometric recording of wall tension. The arteries were exposed to the vasoactive agents adrenalin, prostaglandin F 2α and two vasopressin analogues. Adrenalin, prostaglandin F 2α , lysin-vasopressin and triglycyl-lysine-vasopressin all produced powerful vasoconstriction, the greatest efficacy being shown by and lysine-vasopressin. The maximum response occurred after addition of a third compound to a combination of two, irrespective of which combination was used. Adrenalin showed faster contraction velocity than the other agents. The results indicate that the human tubo-ovarian arteries may be constricted by a variety of physiological and pharmacological stimuli, at least partly acting via different effector mechanisms. It is proposed that these vasoconstrictive agents-alone or in combination-may be useful in conjunction with gynaecological endoscopic surgery, e.g. in tubal pregnancy or ovarian cysts.
Molecular human reproduction, 2001
Angiogenesis is an important but poorly understood process of the cycling endometrium. Endometria... more Angiogenesis is an important but poorly understood process of the cycling endometrium. Endometrial angiogenesis is believed to be regulated by angiogenic growth factors under the influence of ovarian steroids. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its receptors VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2, fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF-2) and its receptors FGFR-1 and FGFR-2, as well as epidermal growth factor (EGF) and its receptor EGFR are believed to be important in the control of angiogenesis in the human endometrium. Their expression was examined by immunohistochemistry in endometrial biopsies obtained from 16 healthy women with proven fertility. Western blot analysis showed that the primary antibodies used were specific for their epitopes. We found that VEGF, FGF-2, EGF and their receptors were all expressed, especially in and/or around blood vessels, thus supporting the hypothesis that these peptides contribute to the regulation of angiogenesis and blood vessel function in the human endometrium. The receptors VEGFR-1, VEGFR-2, FGFR-2 and EGFR were co-expressed and exhibited their strongest expression during the beginning of the secretory phase, coinciding with the developing endometrial oedema and formation of a complex subepithelial capillary plexus. No correlation was seen between receptor expression and stromal blood vessel density.
Human Reproduction, 1997
assisted procreation clinical effect which remains unexplained to date.
Obstetrical & Gynecological Survey, 1992
Objective: Women with ectopic pregnancy (EP) who have been operated on by laparoscopy are thought... more Objective: Women with ectopic pregnancy (EP) who have been operated on by laparoscopy are thought to have improved subsequent fertility, probably because of less adhesion formation. We aimed to evaluate the adhesion formation after laparoscopy as compared with laparotomy in a randomized trial. Design: One hundred five patients with tubal pregnancy were stratified with regard to age and risk factors and randomized to surgery by laparoscopy or laparotomy. To evaluate adhesion formation and tubal status, 73 patients with strong desire of pregnancy underwent a second-look laparoscopy. The adhesion status at the ipsilateral and contralateral side at primary surgery was compared with the status at second-look laparoscopy. Results: Patients operated on by laparotomy developed significantly more adhesions at the operated side than patients operated on by laparoscopy (P < 0.001). Substantially more patients in the laparotomy group underwent adhesiolysis at second-look laparoscopy than did patients in the laparoscopy group. Tubal patency did not differ between the groups. Conclusions: Laparoscopic treatment of EP results in less impairment of the pelvic status compared with conventional conservative surgery.
Molecular Human Reproduction, 2001
Angiogenesis is an important but poorly understood process of the cycling endometrium. Endometria... more Angiogenesis is an important but poorly understood process of the cycling endometrium. Endometrial angiogenesis is believed to be regulated by angiogenic growth factors under the influence of ovarian steroids. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its receptors VEGFR-1 and VEGFR-2, fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF-2) and its receptors FGFR-1 and FGFR-2, as well as epidermal growth factor (EGF) and its receptor EGFR are believed to be important in the control of angiogenesis in the human endometrium. Their expression was examined by immunohistochemistry in endometrial biopsies obtained from 16 healthy women with proven fertility. Western blot analysis showed that the primary antibodies used were specific for their epitopes. We found that VEGF, FGF-2, EGF and their receptors were all expressed, especially in and/or around blood vessels, thus supporting the hypothesis that these peptides contribute to the regulation of angiogenesis and blood vessel function in the human endometrium. The receptors VEGFR-1, VEGFR-2, FGFR-2 and EGFR were co-expressed and exhibited their strongest expression during the beginning of the secretory phase, coinciding with the developing endometrial oedema and formation of a complex subepithelial capillary plexus. No correlation was seen between receptor expression and stromal blood vessel density.
Molecular Human Reproduction, 1999
Two subpopulations of steroidogenic cells exist in the corpus luteum of most species. The aims of... more Two subpopulations of steroidogenic cells exist in the corpus luteum of most species. The aims of the present study were to characterize these cells and to study their function during long-term culture. Human corpora lutea from early and late luteal phases were treated by mechanical and enzymatic digestion, followed by density sedimentation. Five distinct cell bands were obtained, two of which produced large amounts of progesterone. These were characterized according to density, size, steroidogenic enzymes, and numbers. More than 75% of cells expressed immunoreactive 3β-hydroxydehydrogenase (3β-HSD). Cells of higher density/smaller size were obtained in increasing numbers during the luteal phase and were more numerous compared with large cells. Under basal, human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG)-, and prostaglandin E 2-stimulated culture conditions, progesterone synthesis was greater in large cells of the early, but not late, luteal phase. Both cell fractions obtained from late, in contrast to early, luteal phase increased their basal progesterone production during the culture period of 9 days. We conclude that this technique for luteal cell isolation in the human yields two distinct subpopulations of steroidogenic cells, which respond differently to luteotrophic stimuli. We also conclude that cells of late luteal phase readily increase their progesterone synthesis over a period of 9 days, indicating a transition to longevity.
Hypertension in Pregnancy, 1998
ABSTRACT Objecrive: To compare myometrial resistance arteries from women with preeclampsia and no... more ABSTRACT Objecrive: To compare myometrial resistance arteries from women with preeclampsia and normal pregnant women with respect to myogenic behavior, acetylcholine-mediated dilatation, and distensibility. Study Design: Arteries from women with preeclampsia (n = 14) and healthy term pregnant women (n = 17) were studied in a pressurized arteriograph system. Myogenic tone was evaluated during increments in intraluminal pressure from 20 to 120 mm Hg, as well as distensibility index at the same pressure steps in Ca2+-free solution substituted with papaverine. Endotheliumdependent relaxation was assessed by evaluating the response to acetylcholine (10−6 M) in the absence and presence of Nω-nitro-L-arginine in arteries pressurized at a constant intraluminal pressure of 70 mm Hg. Results: Overall myogenic tone did not differ between the arteries from the two patient groups studied, but the slope of the pressure-myogenic tone relationship in arteries from women with preeclampsia was significantly different (positive). Relaxation to acetylcholine was impaired in arteries from women with preeclampsia (6 ω 1% versus 18 t 4%, p < 0.05), whereas inhibition of nitric oxide synthase with Nω-nitro-L-arginine abolished this response in both patients groups. The distensibility index (Ca2+-free solution plus papaverine) of arteries from women with preeclampsia was increased as compared to arteries from normal pregnant women (p <0.05). Conclusions: Pressure-induced myogenic tone and impaired acetylcholine-mediated vasodilatation in myometrial resistance arteries from women with preeclampsia might contribute to the increased vascular resistance in the uterine circulation seen in preeclampsia. The increased distensibility of the myornetrial arteries from women with preeclampsia might represent a compen-satory mechanism to preserve the blood flow in the uteroplacental vascular bed.
Human Reproduction, 1999
The aim of this investigation was to compare the response of small arteries of the human tubo-ova... more The aim of this investigation was to compare the response of small arteries of the human tubo-ovarian vasculature to certain vasoactive agents. Ring preparations of the arteries were isolated and mounted in tissue chambers for isometric recording of wall tension. The arteries were exposed to the vasoactive agents adrenalin, prostaglandin F 2α and two vasopressin analogues. Adrenalin, prostaglandin F 2α , lysin-vasopressin and triglycyl-lysine-vasopressin all produced powerful vasoconstriction, the greatest efficacy being shown by and lysine-vasopressin. The maximum response occurred after addition of a third compound to a combination of two, irrespective of which combination was used. Adrenalin showed faster contraction velocity than the other agents. The results indicate that the human tubo-ovarian arteries may be constricted by a variety of physiological and pharmacological stimuli, at least partly acting via different effector mechanisms. It is proposed that these vasoconstrictive agents-alone or in combination-may be useful in conjunction with gynaecological endoscopic surgery, e.g. in tubal pregnancy or ovarian cysts.
Gynecologic and Obstetric Investigation, 2003
The content of RNA and DNA in human myometrium and fibroids obtained at different endocrine condi... more The content of RNA and DNA in human myometrium and fibroids obtained at different endocrine conditions varied, with the highest RNA/DNA ratio in tissues from pregnant patients, intermediate ratios in women during the menstrual cycle and the lowest in tissues from postmenopausal and GnRHa-treated patients. mRNA expression of two house-keeping genes, γ-actin and GAPDH, was highest in myometrium from pregnant women, intermediate in untreated women of fertile age and lowest in tissues from GnRHa-treated and postmenopausal women. To control for degradation of nucleic acids when measuring mRNA expression, we suggest additional analysis of gene(s), where the expression pattern is known, and that expression, whenever possible, is related to DNA, which is a more stable parameter than RNA and total nucleic acids, when there are differences in proliferation between tissues and/or groups of patients.
Fertility and Sterility, 2002
Objective: To determine mRNA and protein expression of the progesterone receptor (PR) and insulin... more Objective: To determine mRNA and protein expression of the progesterone receptor (PR) and insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) in myometrium and fibroids. Design: Retrospective clinical study. Setting: Hospital-based and university-affiliated research laboratories. Patient(s): Twelve women in the proliferative phase and six women treated with GnRH analogue (GnRH-a). Intervention(s): Blood sampling and collection of myometrium and fibroids. Main Outcome Measure(s): PR and IGF-I mRNA levels in fibroids and myometrium were analyzed by solution hybridization and in situ hybridization whereas the proteins were localized by immunohistochemistry. Result(s): Fibroids and myometrium from women in the proliferative phase showed significantly higher PR mRNA than the corresponding tissues from GnRH-a᎑treated women. The amount of cells positively stained for PR-AB and PR-B in fibroids and myometrium decreased after GnRH-a treatment compared with in the proliferative phase. The IGF-I mRNA in both fibroids and myometrium in the proliferative phase was significantly higher than those after GnRH-a treatment. The immunostaining of IGF-I showed no difference between the two tissues. There was weaker immunostaining in the GnRH-a᎑treated group compared with in the proliferative phase group. Conclusion(s): The shrinkage of fibroids after steroid deprivation is associated with alterations in PR and IGF-I expression.
European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, 1986
Two hundred and five patients with ectopic pregnancy in a well-defined Swedish population were in... more Two hundred and five patients with ectopic pregnancy in a well-defined Swedish population were interviewed with respect to prior disease and pregnancy histories as well as various constitutional and socioeconomic factors. The results were compared with those of two control groups, i.e. 110 early pregnant women intending to continue the gestation to term as well as 101 women seeking voluntary interruption of pregnancy. The results provide evidence that several factors may be involved in the etiology of ectopic pregnancy, including abdominal (or pelvic) surgery, previous ectopic pregnancy and pelvic inflammatory disease. Furthermore, a history of infertility is strongly correlated to ectopic pregnancy. On the other hand, there is no evidence that uncomplicated spontaneous or induced abortion, parity or marital status are important factors.
European Journal of Obstetrics & Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, 1993
Experientia, 1985
Cervical specimens were obtained by needle biopsy in connection with caesarean section at term pr... more Cervical specimens were obtained by needle biopsy in connection with caesarean section at term pregnancy. The preparations were superfused in an organ chamber and contractions were registered isometrically. Prostaglandin (PG) E 2 and F2~ inhibited spontaneous contractions. The stimulatory action of noradrenaline was not influenced by PGF2~ but was reduced by PGE 2 whereas both PGs abolished the excitatory effect of oxytocin.
BMJ, 1998
Objectives: To analyse trends in rates of genital chlamydial infection and ectopic pregnancy betw... more Objectives: To analyse trends in rates of genital chlamydial infection and ectopic pregnancy between 1985 and 1995 in a county in Sweden. Setting: Uppsala county where screening for chlamydial infection, treatment, and contact tracing has been widespread and where ectopic pregnancies are recorded. Methods: Rates of chlamydial infections and ectopic pregnancy between 1985 and 1995 were calculated for women aged 20-39 years. Poisson and linear regression were used to examine the association between the risk of ectopic pregnancy and the current rates of chlamydial infection and rates of chlamydial infection from up to 5 years earlier. Main outcome measures: Rates of chlamydial infection per 100 examinations, rates of ectopic pregnancy per 1000 pregnancies, rate ratios and 95% confidence intervals for an increase in chlamydial infections of 5 new cases per 100 examinations. Results: 103 870 cervical samples from women aged 15-39 years were analysed; 5648 (5.4%) were positive for chlamydia. 51 630 pregnancies were analysed; 930 (1.8%) were ectopic. Both rates declined over time. For women aged 20-24 years there was a strong correlation between the rate of ectopic pregnancy and the rate of chlamydial infection in the same year (r = 0.93, P < 0.001); among older women correlations were stronger with rates of chlamydial infection occurring 1 or 2 years earlier. In Poisson regression ectopic pregnancy was most strongly associated with the current rate of chlamydial infection among women aged 20-24 (rate ratio 1.85, 95% confidence interval 1.44 to 2.38), with the rate of infection 1 year earlier among 25-29 year olds (rate ratio 1.72, 1.33 to 2.22) and 30-34 year olds (rate ratio 2.27, 1.53 to 3.37); and with the rate 2 years earlier among 35 to 39 year olds (rate ratio 2.58, 1.45 to 4.60). Conclusions: Declining rates of genital chlamydial infections have probably led to a fall in the rate of ectopic pregnancies. The timing of the decline in the rate of ectopic pregnancies varies with age. Among young women falling rates of chlamydial infection have been accompanied by an immediate reduction in the rate of ectopic pregnancy.
Biology of Reproduction, 1985
Small muscle strips were dissected from the circular and longitudinal muscle layers of the human ... more Small muscle strips were dissected from the circular and longitudinal muscle layers of the human oviduct. The preparations showed rhythmic spontaneous activity when perfused by Krebs-Ringer buffer. Excitatory effects of the prostaglandin (PG) precursor arachidonic acid were totally blocked by the cyclooxygenase inhibitors 5,8,11, 14-eicosatetraynoic acid (ETYA) and indomethacm. The latter drugs also caused a reversible inhibition of spontaneous activity in both muscle layers. After total inhibition produced by ETYA, the initial activity was restored by adding low concentrations of prostaglandin F20 (PGF20) to the medium. PGE2 was able to reestablish the activity only in the longitudinal layer. It is concluded that isolated smooth muscle of the human oviduct has the capacity of generating PGs from both endogenous and exogenous substrate. The data also suggest that the formation of PGF20 is a prerequisite for maintenance of normal tubal contractions.
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2000
We evaluated the role of endothelium-derived nitric oxide and endothelin 1 in the modulation of m... more We evaluated the role of endothelium-derived nitric oxide and endothelin 1 in the modulation of myogenic tone, norepinephrine-induced tone, and flow-mediated responses in resistance arteries from pregnant women at term. Arteries (approximately 200 microm at 50 mm Hg; n = 27) were dissected from myometrial biopsies obtained from women undergoing elective cesarean delivery at term and mounted in a pressure arteriograph. Responses to intraluminal flow, pressure, and norepinephrine were studied in the absence and presence of the nitric oxide synthase inhibitor Nomega-nitro-L-arginine and the endothelin-converting enzyme inhibitor phosphoramidon. Pressure-induced (80 mm Hg) myogenic tone was significantly enhanced after incubation with Nomega-nitro-L-arginine (33% +/- 8% vs 24% +/- 4%; P <.05), whereas phosphoramidon significantly reduced myogenic tone (24% +/- 5% vs 33% +/- 5%; P <.05). A combination of Nomega-nitro-L -arginine and phosphoramidon did not affect myogenic tone. Norepinephrine-induced tone was significantly enhanced after nitric oxide synthase inhibition (49% +/- 6% vs 41% +/- 5%; P <.05) but was not affected by phosphoramidon. Flow-mediated dilatation was increased in the presence of phosphoramidon compared with flow-induced dilatation in physiologic salt solution (maximum dilatation, 57% +/- 12% vs 30% +/- 5%; analysis of variance, P <.05), and all flow-induced dilatation was abolished by Nomega-nitro-L -arginine. Nitric oxide and endothelin 1 may play a significant role in modulation of myogenic tone and flow-mediated responses in the resistance vasculature of the uterine circulation in normal pregnancy.
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 1997
Our purpose was to compare myometrial and omental resistance arteries from term pregnant women wi... more Our purpose was to compare myometrial and omental resistance arteries from term pregnant women with respect to myogenic behavior in the presence or absence of a nitric oxide synthase inhibitor and to compare distensibility and acetylcholine-mediated dilatation in these vessels. Intramyometrial (n = 17) and omental (n = 14) resistance arteries from term normal pregnant women were studied in a pressurized arteriograph system. Myogenic tone was evaluated during increments in intraluminal pressure from 20 to 120 mm Hg with and without inhibition of nitric oxide synthase. Endothelium-dependent relaxation was assessed by evaluating the response to acetylcholine (10(-6) mol/L) in arteries pressurized at 70 mm Hg. Myogenic tone was greater at all pressure steps in the myometrial than in the omental arteries (p < 0.05). Inhibition of nitric oxide synthase with N(omega)-nitro-L-arginine had no influence on myogenic tone in either group. Relaxation to acetylcholine was greater in myometrial (18% +/- 4%) compared with omental vessels (7% +/- 2%, p < 0.05). The passive distensibility (Ca++-free solution and in the presence of papaverine) of arteries from the myometrium and the omentum was similar. Normal pregnancy is associated with different mechanical properties of resistance vessels from the two vascular beds studied. Basal nitric oxide release does not modify myogenic tone, at least under no-flow conditions. Acetylcholine-induced relaxation is greater in myometrial than in omental arteries.
Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica, 2001
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