Fallopian tubes Research Papers - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

We have recently reported that human fallopian tubes, which are discarded during surgical procedures of women submitted to sterilization or hysterectomies, are a rich source of human fallopian tube mesenchymal stromal cells (htMSCs). It has been previously shown that human mesenchymal stromal cells may be useful in enhancing the speed of bone regeneration. This prompted us to investigate whether htMSCs might be useful for the treatment of osteoporosis or other bone diseases, since they present a pronounced capacity for osteogenic differentiation in vitro. Based on this prior knowledge, our aim was to evaluate, in vivo, the osteogenic capacity of htMSCs to regenerate bone through an already described xenotransplantation model: nonimmunosuppressed (NIS) rats with cranial defects. htMSCs were obtained from five 30-50 years old healthy women and characterized by flow cytometry and for their multipotenciality in vitro capacity (osteogenic, chondrogenic and adipogenic differentiations). Two symmetric fullthickness cranial defects on each parietal region of seven NIS rats were performed. The left side (LS) of six animals was covered with CellCeram (Scaffdex)-a bioabsorbable ceramic composite scaffold that contains 60% hydroxyapatite and 40% β-tricalciumphosphate-only, and the right side (RS) with the CellCeram and htMSCs (10 6 cells/scaffold). The animals were euthanized at 30, 60 and 90 days postoperatively and cranial tissue samples were taken for histological analysis. After 90 days we observed neobone formation in both sides. However, in animals euthanized 30 and 60 days after the procedure, a mature bone was observed only on the side with htMSCs. PCR and immunofluorescence analysis confirmed the presence of human DNA and thus that human cells were not rejected, which further supports the imunomodulatory property of htMSCs. In conclusion, htMSCs can be used successfully to enhance bone regeneration in vivo, opening a new field for future treatments of osteoporosis and bone reconstruction.

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- Hydroxyapatite, Flow Cytometry, Biology, Medicine

Villin, a 95-kD cytoskeletal protein selectively expressed in the microvilli of some absorptive cells was localized immunohistochemically in the oviduct and the seminiferous excretory ducts of the mouse. Villin was found in the proximal part of the oviduct, comprising the preampulla, ampulla, and part of the isthmus. Distal to the isthmus the oviductal cells lining the junctura and the intrauterine colliculus tubaris were devoid of villin. No villin could be detected in the uterine cells. Ductuli efferentes, connecting the rete testis with the epididymis were the only portion of the male seminiferous ductal system expressing villin. The cells lining the epididymis and the vas deferens were devoid of villin. These data show that villin is selectively expressed in male and female reproductive systems and that it is limited to anatomically defined proximal portions of the reproductive ducts.

- by Ivan Damjanov
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- Microscopy, Localization, Histochemistry, Immunohistochemistry
- by Nick Wheelhouse
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- Chlamydia trachomatis, Toll like receptor signaling, Cell line, Pregnancy

The capacity of membranes from the ovaries, oviducts and uteri of rats to bind [3SS]t-butylbicyclophosphorothionate (TBPS), and the effect of ¥-~minobutyric acid (GABA) and pentobarbital on the specific binding of TBPS were examined. Specific TBPS binding, that could be modulated by GABA and pentobarbital in an allosterk: manner, was demonstrated. These findings indicate that the TBPS-labeled chloride ion ch~anels in the female sex organs are regulated by GABA and pentobarbital sites, in a fashion similar to that observed in the brain.

- by Sandor L Erdö
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- Membranes, Rats, Ovary, Uterus

Objective: To evaluate the pain and cause of pain experienced by women undergoing hysterosalpingography (HSG) and contrast hysterosalpingo sonography (HyCoSy) with air in a saline solution for the assessment of uterine and tubal patency. Method: In this prospective study, 121 infertile women undergoing these 2 procedures measured the pain incurred using a digital/analog scale (1-10). We looked for correlations between pain level and variables pertaining to the procedures. Vagal effects and their persistence were also recorded. Results: The pain was less during HSG (median, 5) than during HyCoSy (median, 7). It was greater than menstrual pain for 38.8% of participants during HSG and for 70.5% of participants during HyCoSy. There was no correlation between pain and difficult catheter passage, degree of tubal obstruction, volume of contrast medium injected, or presence of IgG antibodies to Chlamydia when these variables were studied for HyCoSy alone. However, the strong correlation between pain score and volume of contrast medium injected during each procedure seems to explain the significantly higher pain levels during HyCoSy (P b 0.001). In 65.3% and 57.8% of participants, respectively, the pain disappeared immediately after the HSG or HyCoSy. Only mild vagal effects were recorded following both procedures, in 0.8% of participants after HSG and 2.5% of participants after HyCoSy. Conclusion: Hysterosalpingo contrast sonography is similar to HSG regarding rapidity of pain disappearance, and infrequency and moderation of vagal effects, but the level of pain is slightly higher, probably due to the greater volume of medium injected.

- by Ivona Anghelache Lupascu
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- Obstetrics, Pain, Comparative Study, Prospective studies

background: Techniques for uterus transplantation (UTx) have been developed in rodent/domestic animals towards future clinical introduction of UTx to treat uterine factor infertility. The aim of this study was to extend the UTx research into a non-human primate species by developing surgical techniques for uterus retrieval and transplantation in the baboon. methods: Female baboons (n ¼ 15) underwent surgery, with the initial five animals used for studies of pelvic vascular anatomy. Retrieval surgery included isolation of the ovarian veins and the uterine arteries together with the anterior branches of the internal iliacs. The uterotubal-ovarian specimen was removed, flushed and kept ex vivo for 2 h when the two arterial ends and two venous ends were anastomosed side-to-side to construct one arterial and one venous end. These were, at auto-transplantation, anastomosed end-to-side to the external iliacs and the animals (n ¼ 10) were evaluated concerning cyclicity and later by laparoscopy/laparotomy. results: The total duration of organ retrieval, backtable preparation and transplantation was around 6 h with an overall ischaemic time of the specimen of about 3 h. One animal died due to cardiomyopathy. Five out of the nine surviving animals resumed cyclicity, as a sign of reestablished ovarian function. Only two out of these five animals exhibited resumed menstruation, indicating re-established ovarian and uterine function. Laparoscopy confirmed normal-sized uteri in these two animals. conclusions: This study demonstrates the feasibility of UTx by vascular anastomosis in a non-human primate species. The low success rate demonstrates the complexity involved in UTx surgery and the need for further methodological developments.

- by Dr. Atunga Nyachieo, PhD
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- Biology, Fertility, Treatment Outcome, Medicine

Primary adenocarcinoma of Fallopian tube is a rare gynecological malignancy affecting women in the fi fth and sixth decades of their lives. The rarity of this type of carcinoma has prompted reports of individual cases rather than publication of a large series. One such case is reported in a 50-year-old nulliparous post-menopausal female. The age, low fertility index and presentation of the disease are in accordance with previous reports in the literature. The present case also fulfi lls the diagnostic criteria's applied to this tumor.

- by Dr Sunil Y Swami
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- Histopathology, Cancers, Fallopian tubes

Background Mutations in the BRCA genes confer greater risk of developing breast, ovarian, and prostate cancer. Families carrying the mutation can have intensive surveillance and take preventative measures. This is the first report on the uptake of such interventions in Chinese mutation carriers residing in Asia. Methods Breast and ovarian cancer index patients and family members referred for genetic counselling and testing who are found to carry the BRCA mutations were included in this multicenter study. Results A total of 31 patients with breast and/or ovarian cancer were found to carry BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations. Forty-one tested family members also carried the mutations. Of the females, 85.7% of the index patients opted for breast surveillance and 23.8% for prophylactic mastectomy. Of the family members, 82.4% chose breast surveillance and 17.7% had prophylactic mastectomy. The

- by Ava Kwong
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- Genetics, China, Ovarian Cancer, Medicine

Purpose Preventive health strategies for women at increased hereditary risk of ovarian cancer include gynecologic screening (GS) and/or prophylactic oophorectomy (PBSO). Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is often prescribed to compensate for postsurgical endocrine deficiencies. This study examined the impact of HRT use on levels of endocrine symptoms and sexual functioning among premenopausal women who have undergone PBSO. Comparisons were made with similar women undergoing GS. Patients and Methods Questionnaire data on endocrine symptoms and sexual functioning were obtained from 450 premenopausal, high-risk women who had participated in this nationwide, cross-sectional, observational study. Results Thirty-six percent of women had undergone PBSO and 64% had opted for GS. In the PBSO group, 47% of the women were current HRT users. They reported significantly fewer vasomotor symptoms than nonusers (P < .05). However, compared with premenopausal women undergoing GS, oophorectomized ...

- by K.N. Gaarenstroom
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- Ovarian Cancer, Clinical, Clinical oncology, Premenopausal women

According to the structure of his body and his whole nature, Human is a sperm, whose Ovum is God. Our life is a movement towards It through the fallopian tubes of the Way. // В телесном устройстве своем и во всем естестве Человек — спермий, чьей Яйцеклеткой есть Бог. Жизнь людей — к Ней движенье по маточным трубам Пути.

- by Oleg Yermakov
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- Physics, Anthropology, Philosophy, Metaphysics
- by Alan Trounson
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- Endocrinology, Obstetrics, Australia, Infertility

The affinity and the density of peripheral-type benzodiazepine binding sites (PBzS) in tissues from the genital organs of female rats were studied during the oestrous cycle. When comparing PBzS density on the day of oestrus to PBzS density on the day of pro-oestrus, a significant increase was observed in the ovary (1\m=.\9-fol d) oviduct (2\ m=. \ 4-f ol d) and uterus (1\m=.\7-fold), but not in the kidney. Serum oestradiol also increased to a maximum on the day of pro-oestrus. The ovarian and uterine PBzS density and serum concentrations of oestradiol and progesterone were measured every 8 h between the days of dioestrus and pro-oestrus. Ovarian and uterine PBzS density increased to a maximal value at 01:00 and 09:00 h, respectively, on the day of pro-oestrus. However, a significant increase in PBzS density occurred in the ovary (P < 0\m=.\02) and uterus (P < 0\m=.\001) at 09:00 h on the day of pro-oestrus as compared to 09:00 h on the day of dioestrus. These changes were associated with an increase in serum oestradiol and progesterone concentrations. The affinity of PBzS in all tissues examined remained unaltered during the oestrous cycle. This study demonstrates that changes associated with the oestrous cycle occur in the density of PBzS in various genital organs.

- by Fuad Fares
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- Physiology, Reproduction, Biology, Medicine

Pregnancy is a complex physiological process tightly controlled by the interplay among hormones, morphogens, transcription factors, and signaling pathways. Although recent studies using genetically engineered mouse models have revealed that ligands and receptors of transforming growth factor beta (TGFbeta) and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling pathways are essential for multiple reproductive events during pregnancy, the functional role of SMAD transcription factors, which serve as the canonical signaling platform for the TGFbeta/BMP pathways, in the oviduct and uterus is undefined. Here, we used a mouse model containing triple conditional deletion of the BMP receptor signaling Smads (Smad1 and Smad5) and Smad4, the central mediator of both TGFbeta and BMP signaling, to investigate the role of the SMADs in reproductive tract structure and function in cells from the Amhr2 lineage. Unlike the respective single- or double-knockouts, female Smad1(flox/flox) Smad5(flox/flox) Smad...

- by Caterina Clementi
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- Reproduction, Signal Transduction, Biological Sciences, Pregnancy

Once deposited in the female tract, sperm face a series of challenges that must be overcome to ensure the presence of an adequate normal sperm population close to the site of fertilization. Our aim was to evaluate the influence of the uterine milieu on boar sperm morphology. In experiment 1, sperm morphology was evaluated in the backflow (60 min after insemination) and within the uterotubal junction (UTJ) (collected ~24 h after insemination) following intrauterine sperm deposition (n = 6) and compared with the morphology of the sperm in the insemination dose. In experiment 2, the influence of the uterine fluid (UF) on sperm morphological modifications was evaluated. For this purpose, ejaculated (n = 4) and epididymal (n = 4) sperm were in vitro incubated with or without UF for 2 and 24 h. In both experiments, sperm were classified as normal, having a cytoplasmic droplet (proximal or distal) or having tail defects. The results of experiment 1 pointed to an increase in morphologically abnormal sperm collected in the backflow (27.70%) and a reduction of the same in the UTJ (2.12%) compared with the insemination dose (17.75%) (P < 0.05). In experiment 2, incubation of ejaculated sperm with UF did not provoke any morphological modifications; however, when epididymal sperm were incubated with UF, a pronounced increase in the percentage of normal sperm was evident after 24 h compared with the initial dose (from 25.77% to 53.58%, P < 0.05), mainly due to distal cytoplasmatic droplet shedding (53.22 vs. 20.20%). In conclusion, almost all the sperm that colonize the UTJ had a normal morphology, with part of the abnormal sperm having been discarded in the backflow and part selected/modified on their way to the oviduct. UF seems to influence cytoplasmic distal droplet removal, as demonstrated previously in seminal plasma.

- by Carmen Parra
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- Zoology, Spain, Semen Analysis, Abattoirs

In this prospective study 294 patients diagnosed with ectopic pregnancy (EP) were treated with multiple-dose methotrexate (MTX) to determine the conversion rate to surgery. We concluded that multiple-dose MTX treatment had a low success rate, and the success rate was not related to initial b-hCG value; it was more related to the size of gestational mass before treatment. (Fertil Steril Ò 2010;93:2415-7. Ó2010 by American Society for Reproductive Medicine.

- by Mehmet Colakoglu
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- Treatment Outcome, Medicine, Pregnancy, Fertility and Sterility

Human genital infection caused by C hlamydia trachomatis is thought to be immunologically mediated, resulting in local recruitment of lymphocyte subsets and inducing the production of cytokines. Little information is available about the role of lymphocyte recruitment and the regulation of cytokine production in the genital tract of C. trachomatis positive infertile women. We have evaluated the recruitment of lymphocyte subsets in the genital tract and production of Th1/Th2 cytokines in cervical secretions and laparoscopic specimens from the fallopian tubes of C. trachomatis positive infertile women (n = 17) and compared them with controls, viz. C. trachomatis negative infertile women (n = 20) using ELISA and flow cytometry. None of these patients were found to be infected either with Candida sps., bacterial vaginosis, Trichomonas vaginalis , Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Mycoplasma hominis or Ureaplasma urealyticum in the cervix. Flow cytometric analysis of cervical secretions in Chlamydia positive women revealed recruitment of both CD4 and CD8 lymphocytes to the genital tract was up-regulated and a variation in the production rates of different cytokines in cervical secretions and fallopian tube was observed. We found that the immune responses in cervical secretions were of Th0 type, since all the analysed cytokines, viz. IFN-g , TNF-a , IL-10 and IL-12 were up-regulated. As, both CD4 and CD8 cells contribute to the production of IFN-g and IL-10, these results suggest that along with CD4 cells, CD8 lymphocytes also may be important for local regulation of Th1/Th2 responses in the genital tract during C. trachomatis infection.

- by Sangita Rastogi
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- Immunology, Immune response, Flow Cytometry, Biology

Objective: To review the physiology, pathology, and treatment of proximal tubal disease. Data Identification: Relevant reports on the pathophysiology of proximal tubal disease were reviewed. All studies in English of microsurgery and macrosurgery, and of radiographic and hysteroscopic cannulation in women with proximal tubal blockage were identified through MEDLINE searches. Study Selection: All studies of therapy for proximal blockage that included pregnancy rates were considered. Series of sterilization reversals, series of unilateral or combined procedures, and series in which the location of tubal blockage was not given were excluded from the data analyses. Data Analysis: Raw data were assessed for homogeneity, then standardized and pooled. Total and ongoing pregnancy rates after microsurgery and macrosurgery, as well as radiographic and hysteroscopic transcervical cannulation, were compared by the 2 test. Relative risks for total and ongoing pregnancies were calculated for all treatment methods. Result(s): This meta-analysis suggests that, overall, microsurgical anastomosis results in higher total and ongoing pregnancy rates than macrosurgery or radiographic tubal cannulation. However, pregnancy rates in selected series of transcervical tubal cannulation are similar to those reported for microsurgery. Conclusion(s): Ongoing intrauterine pregnancy rates near 50% can be achieved in patients with proximal blockage of the fallopian tube. Selective salpingography and transcervical cannulation under fluoroscopic guidance are effective at establishing patency in appropriately selected patients and are less invasive and costly than the surgical alternatives.

- by R. Schenken
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- Surgery, Data Analysis, Microsurgery, Pregnancy

Mares are occasionally encountered that consistently fail to conceive when inseminated, naturally or artificially, with fertile stallion semen in the absence of any identifiable pathology of either the structure or function of their reproductive tract. Temporary blockage of the oviducts by accumulations of naturally occurring oviducal masses may be preventing oviducal transport of the embryo to the uterus. Mares, with known reproductive histories, that had exhibited inexplicable failure of conception were treated by laparoscopically guided administration of PGE2-laced triacetin gel directly onto the surface of their oviducts. Fifteen mares age 10-21 years that had exhibited inexplicable failure of conception during 1-4 years were treated, of which 14 (93%) conceived within the same or subsequent breeding season. The high success rate of this treatment supports the tentative diagnosis of oviducal obstruction in these mares and indicates that blockage of the mare's oviducts may oc...

- by Lee Morris
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- Reproduction, Biological Sciences, Pregnancy, Horses

Objective: To determine the presence of angiotensin II and angiotensin II type-2 receptor subtype messenger RNA (mRNA) in human fallopian tube. ... Design: Frozen fallopian tubes were used for all studies. ... Setting: Procedures were... more

- by Andrea Castro
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- Sterilization, National Health Service, Menstrual Cycle, Clinical Sciences

Introduction Inguinal hernias commonly occur during infancy. They are approximately six times more common in males than in females. They are one of the most common surgical conditions in childhood. About 5–20% of inguinal hernias have the ovary or fallopian tube in the hernia sac. Surgical interventions during childhood may cause damage. Unawareness of this damage can cause infertility in future. Case report Presentation of a case diagnosed as having tubal damage during laparoscopic operation because of primary infertility with a history of inguinal hernia during her childhood. Inguinal hernia repair caused tubal damage and bilateral tubal occlusion as a cause of primary infertility. Conclusion Medical history is of great importance during infertility investigation and may reveal some unexpected conditions.

- by Celaleddin Celik
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- Obstetrics, Treatment Outcome, Medical History, Pregnancy

BACKGROUND: Selective salpingography enables us to measure the Fallopian tube perfusion pressure which, when high, can be effectively reduced with the use of transcervical guide-wire tubal catheterization. Whether fertility prognosis improves as a result is currently unknown. Our objective was to clarify the issue. METHODS: Infertile women undergoing selective salpingography were classified into poor, mediocre and good tubal perfusion pressure groups, based on the distribution of tubal perfusion pressures in an unselected infertile population. Of 325 women, 150 (46.1%) were classified in the poor group and underwent guide-wire tubal catheterization. RESULTS: Complete pregnancy and tubal perfusion pressure data were available for 104 (69.4%) subjects. Following tubal catheterization, 29 women (group A) could be classified in the good, 25 (group B) in the mediocre, while 50 women (group C) remained in the poor tubal perfusion pressure group. Survival analysis showed that the pregnancy rate in group A was significantly higher than the rates in groups B and C (P ⍧ 0.036 and 0.005 respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Reductions of tubal perfusion pressures achieved with transcervical guide-wire tubal catheterization resulted in an improved fertility prognosis for women. Selective salpingography and tubal catheterization might have a wider role in the management of the infertile couple than currently believed.

- by Alan Girling
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- Fertility, Survival Analysis, Medicine, Catheterization

High-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC) is the most frequent type of ovarian cancer and has a poor outcome. It has been proposed that fallopian tube cancers may be precursors of HGSOC but evolutionary evidence for this hypothesis has been limited. Here, we perform whole-exome sequence and copy number analyses of laser capture microdissected fallopian tube lesions (p53 signatures, serous tubal intraepithelial carcinomas (STICs), and fallopian tube carcinomas), ovarian cancers, and metastases from nine patients. The majority of tumor-specific alterations in ovarian cancers were present in STICs, including those affecting TP53, BRCA1, BRCA2 or PTEN. Evolutionary analyses reveal that p53 signatures and STICs are precursors of ovarian carcinoma and identify a window of 7 years between development of a STIC and initiation of ovarian carcinoma, with metastases following rapidly thereafter. Our results provide insights into the etiology of ovarian cancer and have implications for preven...

Objective: To review the published literature on the cost-effective approach to infertility treatment. Design: The literature on the economics and cost-effectiveness of infertility treatments was reviewed. Studies related to this topic were identified through MEDLINE. Result(s): Few cost-effectiveness studies about infertility treatment have been published. In the absence of tubal blockage and severe male factor, use of IUI and hMG-IUI is more cost-effective than IVF. In vitro fertilization is at least as cost-effective as tubal surgery. Although IVF costs are high, they fall well within the range of other accepted medical treatments and are below the general public's willingness to pay for these treatments. Conclusion(s): Cost-effectiveness analysis is an important means of improving quality of care while controlling costs. Further work regarding cost-effectiveness of treatments among different diagnostic groups is needed.

- by Brian Allen
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- Infertility, Medicine, Cost Effectiveness Analysis, Fertility and Sterility

Fecal steroid analysis was used to investigate relationships between endocrine parameters and embryo characteristics in domestic cats subjected to chorionic gonadotropin stimulation and artificial insemination (AI). In Study 1, normal endocrine patterns were assessed in 12 cycling domestic queens. Fecal estradiol (E) patterns established an anovulatory cycle length of 18.3 + 0.4 d with estrus lasting 6.3 f 0.3 d. Eight females (67%) exhibited at least one spontaneous ovulation based on sustained increases in fecal progestagens (P). In Study 2, queens were mated during natural estrus (NE, n = 5) or subjected to exogenous i.m. gonadotropin stimulation, 100 IU eCG followed by 75 IU hCG 80 h later, (GS, n = 5). Compared with NE queens, fecal E concentrations were higher (P < 0.05) and remained elevated longer after ovulation induction with hCG. In Study 3, gonadotropin-stimulated queens (n = 7) were artificially inseminated and ovariohysterectomized 160 h after hCG. Ancillary follicles and/or corpora lutea were observed in 5 of 6 (83%) ovulating queens. Both fecal E and number of unovulated follicles observed at ovariohysterectomy were negatively correlated with the percentage of embryos recovered from the uterus (r =-0.91 and r =-0.87, respectively; P < 0.05). In summary, exogenous gonadotropin administration causes an abnormal endocrine environment in domestic cats, likely due to ancillary follicle development. The sustained elevations in estradiol appear to impair oviductal transport of embryos, possibly leading to the reduced fertility typically observed in cats subjected to gonadotropin stimulation and AI.

- by Laura Graham
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- Fertility, Cats, Theriogenology, Biological Sciences
- by Nick Wheelhouse
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- Adolescent, Gene expression, Chlamydia trachomatis, Human

Women who inherit mutations in the breast cancer susceptibility genes, BRCA1 and BRCA2, are predisposed to the development of breast and ovarian cancer. We used mice with a Brca1 mutation on a BALB/cJ inbred background (BALB/cB1+/- mice) or a Brca2 genetic alteration on the 129/SvEv genetic background (129B2+/- mice) to investigate potential gene-environment interactions between defects in these genes and treatment with the highly estrogenic compound diethylstilbestrol (DES). Beginning at 3 weeks of age, BALB/cB1+/-, 129B2+/-, and wild-type female mice were fed a control diet or a diet containing 640 ppb DES for 26 weeks. DES treatment caused vaginal epithelial hyperplasia and hyperkeratosis, uterine inflammation, adenomyosis, and fibrosis, as well as oviductal smooth muscle hypertrophy. The severity of the DES response was mouse strain specific. The estrogen-responsive 129/SvEv strain exhibited an extreme response in the reproductive tract, whereas the effect in BALB/cJ and C3H/HeN...

- by Keith Collins
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- Genetics, Cancer, Breast Cancer, Biology

Hysterosalpingo-contrast sonography is an accurate first-line method used to test for tubal patency in human gynecology. Tubal pathology occurs in dairy cattle and is a reason for infertility, but easy and accurate methods to test for tubal patency are not available in the living cow. In this study it was thus investigated if contrast sonography (CS) using Echovist ®-200 as the echo-contrast medium is a feasible procedure to test for tubal patency in dairy cattle. In eight repeat breeder Holstein Frisian cows, all of them being in behavioral estrus, Echovist ®-200 was given into the uterus and its exit into the abdominal cavity then imaged by transrectal conventional B-mode ultrasound, and used as indicator for tubal patency. Animals were slaughtered one day later and the genital tracts subjected to gross morphology and histology in order to confirm the results of CS. In two cows, CS was prematurely terminated after examination of one oviduct because of rectal bleeding, while CS completely failed in another cow because of poor image quality. In five cows, both oviducts could be examined by CS, respectively. A total of five oviducts were found patent by CS and confirmed by post mortem examination. Two out of five oviducts diagnosed as occluded by CS were morphologically intact and thus misdiagnosed. Of the three non-patent oviducts, two were occluded because of a hydrosalpings, respectively, while the third was inflamed. In conclusion, CS has been shown a feasible procedure to test for tubal patency in dairy cattle. Further studies with more animals are however recommended to warrant this result.

- by Karsten Bergmann
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- Zoology, Medicine, Feasibility Studies, Cattle

Angiotensin II (Ang II), a vasoactive peptide, is secreted by the bovine oviduct and is involved in modulation of local oviductal contraction. Ang II biosynthesis and release during the normal estrous cycle and the effects of luteinizing hormone (LH) and ovarian steroids on biosynthesis and secretion of Ang II were investigated. During the preovulatory period, increases in mRNA expression for Angiotensin converting enzyme 1 (ACE-1) and release of Ang II peptide were detected. Microdialysis of oviductal segments in vitro showed that LH alone significantly increased Ang II release, and combined infusion of LH+E2+P4 caused an increase in Ang II release. In cultured oviductal epithelial cells, LH increased Ang II release and ACE-1 mRNA expression, and E2+P4 enhanced stimulatory effect of LH on Ang II release and ACE-1 mRNA expression. Thus, it can be concluded that the oviductal Ang II system is upregulated by LH and ovarian steroids during the periovulatory period and may enhance local oviductal contraction. These events could stimulate transport of gametes to the fertilization site.

- by Akio Miyamoto
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- Zoology, Reproduction, Biology, Medicine

A case of laparoscopic excision of non-communicating rudimentary horn. The anatomical features of this case were unique. A 19-year-old nulligravida presented with severe dysmenorrhea and primary infertility. Hysterosalpingogram revealed a left uterine horn that had a solitary patent tube. Magnetic resonance imaging showed a left unicornuate uterus continuous with the cervix and the vagina, and a rudimentary right uterine horn. This confirmed the diagnosis of non-communicating cavitated right rudimentary horn. At laparoscopy the patient had stage III endometriosis, and non-communicating right rudimentary horn, which was attached to the unicornuate uterus by a long fibrous band. The rudimentary horn was freed from the pelvic side wall, excised and removed laparoscopically with no complication.

- by Ahmed M.saleh
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- Hysterectomy, Dysmenorrhea, Utero, Uterus

- by Mehmet Colakoglu
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- Treatment Outcome, Medicine, Pregnancy, Fertility and Sterility

Laparoscopy can assist in the diagnosis and treatment of intersex patients. We report a rare case in which laparoscopic gonadectomy and hysterosalpingectomy were performed in a phenotypically-male intersex patient first diagnosed in... more

- by Oscar Fugita
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- Urology, Medicine, Disorders of sex development, Differential Diagnosis

Recently, the distal Fallopian tube has attracted considerable attention not only as site of origin for serous cancer in women with BRCA mutations, but also as the anatomical location where the majority of serous ovarian cancers apparently develop. Consequently, the Fallopian tube may be the unique location where early 'ovarian' cancers can be found-which would contradict the long-standing impression that the ovaries and the Fallopian tubes are always simultaneously involved. Based on the dismal prognosis associated with ovarian cancer and our inability to screen for early-stage disease, we discuss the rationale for introducing salpinges-hysterectomy as new clinical standard for women in need of hysterectomy and further weigh the arguments for and against bilateral salpingectomy as a sterilization method. There is no known physiological benefit of retaining the post-reproductive Fallopian tube during hysterectomy or sterilization, especially as this does not affect ovarian hormone production. On the other hand, the consequences associated with a surgical menopause provide a rationale for preserving the ovaries in premenopausal women. Prophylactic removal of the Fallopian tubes during hysterectomy or sterilization would rule out any subsequent tubal pathology, such as hydrosalpinx, which is observed in up to 30% of women after hysterectomy. Moreover, this intervention is likely to offer considerable protection against later tumour development, even if the ovaries are retained. Thus, we recommend that any hysterectomy should be combined with salpingectomy. In addition, women over 35 years of age could also be offered bilateral salpingectomy as means of sterilization.

- by Jörg Wischhusen
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- Risk, Adolescent, Medicine, Medical Oncology

The oviduct is the physiological site for key events in reproduction, such as capacitation of spermatozoa, fertilization and early embryonic development. Interactions between oviduct epithelial cells and gametes or embryos cannot sufficiently be studied in vivo. Therefore, model systems are needed which mimic in vivo conditions most closely. In this study we optimised the method for isolating bovine oviduct cells and compared different cell support materials as well as two culture systems (perfusion vs static culture) for their ability to maintain characteristic morphological and functional features of oviduct cells. Out of nine different cell support materials tested, cellulose nitrate (0.45 µm pore size) was the most suitable to maintain cells in a manner similar to freshly isolated oviduct epithelial cells. Comparing static vs perfusion culture by electron microscopy, morphological differences of the cells were insignificant in the first days of culture, while they became more evident after 8 days. The cells in the static system lost typical characteristics such as columnar shape, cilia and secretory protrusions, while these features were still present in perfusion culture. In addition, intense ciliogenesis and cytoplasmic organelles for protein synthesis were found under perfusion conditions. These findings were underlined by differences in expression of the oviduct-specific oestrus-associated glycoprotein 85-97 kDa (GP 85-97) gene as revealed by semi-quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). The RNA levels of this specific gene were significantly higher in perfusion compared to the static culture system. Our data show clear advantages of perfusion vs static culture for primary bovine oviduct epithelial cells.

- by F. Sinowatz
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- Electron Microscopy, Cell Adhesion, Protein synthesis, Cell Division

Salpingectomy is recommended as a risk-reducing strategy for epithelial tubo-ovarian cancer. The gold standard procedure is complete tubal excision. The purpose of this study was to assess the presence of residual fimbrial/tubal tissue on ovarian surfaces after salpingectomy. Prospective analysis of patients who underwent salpingo-oophorectomy with or without hysterectomy for benign indications, early cervical cancer, or low-risk endometrial cancer at a UK National Health Service Trust. Salpingectomy with or without hysterectomy was performed initially, followed by oophorectomy within the same operation. Separately retrieved tubes and ovaries were sectioned serially and examined completely histologically. The main outcome measure was histologically identified fimbrial/ tubal tissue on ovarian surface. Chi-square/Fisher's exact tests were used to evaluate categoric variables. Twenty-five consecutive cases (mean age, 54.8 ± 5.0 years) that comprised 41 adnexae (unilateral, 9; bila...

- by Ranjit Manchanda
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- Prospective studies, Hysterectomy, Ovary, Fallopian tubes
- by C. Robert Stanhope
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- Adolescent, Mayo Clinic Proceedings, Amenorrhea, Fallopian tubes

The aim of this study was to evaluate the sexual functions and quality of life of women who have undergone tubal sterilization after tubal surgery. In all, 90 active premenopausal women, who had undergone tubal sterilization at least 1 year ago and been admitted to four different hospitals, were included in the study group. A total of 100 women at a similar age range, admitted to the same four hospitals for routine health controls, were included in the control group. To obtain sexual function assessments, the patients were asked to fill out Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) questionnaire. The participants were also asked to fill out Medical Outcomes Study Short Form (SF-36) questionnaire. All values were found to be lower in the tubal sterilization (TS) group and the differences between groups were statistically significant in domain except for pain and lubrication. Similarly, in the analysis of SF-36 scores, there were differences in comparison with the TS group in all domains. In the evaluation of the relationship of FSFI with educational level in the TS group, it was found that, while the educational level increased, all domain scores also increased, and this increase was statistically significant in all domains except pain. The termination of fertility, which is one of the important abilities of women, with tubal sterilization, may be a risk factor for female sexual dysfunction in people with low educational levels.

- by hayriye senturk çiftçi
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- Andrology, Pain, Quality of life, Body Mass Index

The dynamic action of oviductal secretory compounds on spermatozoa function is well documented. In contrast, the effect of spermatozoa on oviductal function remains poorly characterized. Previously, our lab and others have shown that prostaglandin (PG), together with other vasoactive peptides, plays major roles in oviductal contractions and sperm transport. We therefore examined the effect of spermatozoa on the production of PG by cow oviductal epithelial cells (OEC). A bovine spermatozoa–OEC co-culture system was utilized for this purpose. OECs in the second passage were co-cultured for 0, 1, 3, 6, 12, and 24 h with six doses of motile, killed, or truncated spermatozoa heads (control; without spermatozoa, 102–106 spermatozoa/ml medium). The levels of PGE2 and PGF2α in the medium were measured using enzyme immunoassays. Messenger RNA expression of cyclooxygenase-2, PGF synthase (PGFS), and PGE synthase (PGES) was investigated using real-time RT-PCR. The results indicated that motile...

- by Akio Miyamoto
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- Physiology, Chemistry, Reproduction, Medicine

The precise regulatory mechanisms of cyclic oviductal contraction in the cow are unclear. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of luteinizing hormone (LH), steroids, prostaglandins (PGs) and peptides on the oviductal contraction and secretion of PGs and endothelin (ET-1). In addition, the cyclic expression of mRNA for ET-1 and its receptors (ET-R) was evaluated by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). In the in vitro microdialysis study, an infusion of LH alone or in combination with progesterone (P(4)), estradiol-17beta (E(2)) and/or ET-1 stimulated pronounced release of PGE(2), PGF(2alpha) and ET-1 in the oviducts from cows in the follicular and postovulatory phases. The addition of LH, LH+P(4)+E(2) and/or ET-1 to the medium increased the amplitude of oviductal contraction. However, oxytocin (OT) completely blocked the responses of oviductal secretion and contraction. In contrast, these substances did not show any effect in the oviducts from cow...

- by Akio Miyamoto
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- Endocrinology, Animal Production, Oxytocin, Progesterone

Mammalian oviduct is the physiological site for sperm capacitation, gamete fertilization and early embryonic development. The secretory cells lining the lumen of the mammalian oviduct synthesize and secrete high molecular weight glycoprotein (OGP) in response to estrogen. The protein has been shown to interact with gametes and early embryo. Several key functions have been postulated particularly its role in pre-implantation events which would have far reaching implications in assisted reproductive technology and in the development of non-hormonal contraceptive vaccine. The intention of this article is to discuss the current status of the protein and analyze how far the postulated function of OGP has been borne out by the available data.

- by Gennaro Cormio
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- Risk assessment, Medicine, Pregnancy, Emergency Room

UNLABELLED To present a rare case of spontaneous ectopic pregnancy in a non-communicating heterotopic fallopian tube associated with unicornuate uterus without a rudimentary horn. Case report. SETTING Tertiary referral obstetrics and gynecology center. PATIENT A 36-year-old woman in her fourth pregnancy (para 1, abortus 2) presented at 5th gestational week with severe abdominal pain and circulatory instability. INTERVENTION Heterotopic fallopian tube removal by laparotomy. Investigation of the origin of the spontaneous heterotopic fallopian tube pregnancy and exploration of the gross structural development of the urinary system. Spontaneous ectopic pregnancy in a non-communicating heterotopic fallopian tube coexisting with corpus luteum in the contralateral ovary supports the hypothesis of transperitoneal migration of gametes or embryos.

- by Waldemar Kuczyński
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- Treatment Outcome, Medicine, Pregnancy, Uterus

background: Uterus transplantation (UTx) may provide the first available treatment for women affected by uterine infertility. The present study aimed to further develop a surgical technique for autologous UTx in a non-human primate species and to assess long-term function. methods: Female baboons (n ¼ 16) underwent autologous transplantation of the uterus with the Fallopian tubes and ovaries, performed with a previously published surgical technique (n ¼ 6, Group 1) or using a modified technique (n ¼ 10; Group 2). The uterine arteries were dissected to the proximal end of the anterior branch (Group 1) or the entire (Group 2) internal iliac artery, and the ovarian veins were dissected to the crossing over the ureter (Group 1) or further cranially to include greater lengths and patches of the cava/renal vein (Group 2). Back-table preparation created common venous and arterial ends with arterial anastomosis either end-to-side to the left external iliac artery (Group 1) or end-to-end to the left internal iliac artery (Group 2). results: Overall short-time survival of the animals was 88% (66% in Group 1 and 100% in Group 2). Of all the operated animals, 75% (66% in Group 1 and 80% in Group 2) resumed ovarian cyclicity. Regular menstruation after UTx was demonstrated only in Group 2 (60%). Menstruating animals (n ¼ 6) were each exposed to timed mating for ≥5 menstrual cycles, but pregnancy did not occur. Adhesions and tubal blockage were seen in post-mortem analysis. conclusions: The modified UTx model of Group 2 is a safe procedure and shows resumed long-term uterine function in a majority of the animals, although pregnancy could not be demonstrated.

- by M. Olausson
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- Breeding, Treatment Outcome, Menstruation, Papio

Objective: To determine the effect of increasing experience in fluoroscopically guided selective salpingography and tubal catheterization on radiation doses and screening times, thus establishing a learning curve for the procedure. Design: Retrospective case note analysis. Setting: IVF center of an academic teaching hospital. Patients: Three hundred sixty-six patients with infertility seen over 3.5 years. Intervention(s): Fluoroscopically guided selective salpingography and tubal catheterization. Main Outcome Measure(s): Reductions in radiation doses and screening times for different categories of selective salpingography and tubal catheterization, expressed as percentage reductions during the study period and reductions per 10 procedures. Result(s): During the study period, The median dose of radiation decreased by 62.6%-71.9%, and the median screening time declined by 61.5%-78.5%. Reductions per 10 procedures were 2.5%-4.2% and 2.7%-5%, respectively. Conclusion(s): Significant reductions in radiation doses and screening times start early in a clinical team's practice of selective salpingography and tubal catheterization and continue even as trainees are added to the pool of operators.

- by Alan Girling
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- Radiation, Catheterization, Learning, Continuing Medical Education

Although there is no distinct, absolute, and ideal method for vaginal reconstruction, intestinal transfers are preferable to the other described techniques in the main clinics. In this report, we describe the transfer of a jejunal segment... more

- by Ayhan MESCİ
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- Microcirculation, Microsurgery, Treatment Outcome, Young Adult
- by Charles Hamner
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- Fertility, Multidisciplinary, Nature, Castration

In monkeys, as in man, the time required for ovum transport through the oviduct is about 3 days (Eddy, Garcia, Kraemer & Pauerstein, 1976). This period appears essential for normal fertility because eggs passing too quickly or too slowly through the oviduct fail to implant (Bennett, 1974). Although transport through the ampulla may be mediated by cilia (Blandau & Verdugo, 1976), the isthmus is comparatively muscular and well innervated and may delay ovum transport by a sphincterlike action. Prostaglandins and catecholamines are known to alter the muscular activity of human and rabbit oviducts and it is possible that changes in the levels of these drugs, or in the sensitivity of the tissues to them, may control egg transport (Hodgson & Eddy, 1975; Spilman & Harper, 1975). In the present study the contractile responses of the monkey oviduct to various drugs and to transmural electrical stimulation have been examined in the hope of increasing understanding of the regulation of ovum transport in this species. Tissues were obtained from mature female crabeating macaques (Macaca fascicularis). Uteri

- by Anthony Johns
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- Physiology, Reproduction, High Frequency, Macaca
- by John McBain
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- Catheterization, Pregnancy, Fertility and Sterility, Gynecology and Obstetrics

This paper presents a synthesis of 3 year results of in vitro production of bovine embryos in medium previously conditioned by bovine oviduct epithelial cells. In Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium, a total of 18356 oocytes were matured and inseminated in vitro: 13967 (76%) had cleaved at 3 days post-insemination and 3593 (26%) became blastocysts using this culture system. Our data show that conditioned medium can be stored frozen for up to 3 years without significant loss of activity and is resistant to lyophilization. One single batch of conditioned medium was tested within the same period in four different laboratories and yielded variable results: 27 and 37% blastocysts/cleaved embryos in two of them and only 7 and 0% in the two others whereas in each case more than 30% blastocysts were obtained with the local reference co-culture system. In one laboratory, the batch of oil used to overlay the culture drops had a detrimental effect on the blastocyst rate in conditioned medium but not in ...

- by G. Brem
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- Pregnancy, Plant tissue Culture Techniques, Cattle, Freeze Drying