Expression of extracellular matrix and adhesion proteins in pelvic organ prolapse

Monica Cecati,Monica Emanuelli,Davide Sartini,Franca Saccucci,Stefano R Giannubilo,Valentina Pozzi,Andrea Ciavattini,Alessandra Corradetti

doi:10.14715/cmb/2018.64.5.24

Monica Cecati, Monica Emanuelli + Show 6 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.14715/cmb/2018.64.5.24

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Abstract

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a common disorder in women. It is characterized by the descent of the vaginal wall with consequent drop of pelvic organs. Pregnancy, labour and childbirth seem to be important events leading to the development of POP, since they are associated with prolonged stretch and mechanical stress of muscles, ligaments and connective tissue supporting pelvic organs. In pubocervical fascia, we explored the expression level of extracellular matrix and adhesion molecules. Tissue samples were obtained from twenty patients with POP who underwent cystocele repair, and from twenty control subjects during hysterectomy surgery. The PCR array analysis was performed and data were confirmed by Real-Time PCR and Western Blot. Real-Time PCR results showed a significant upregulation for extracellular matrix protein 1 (ECM1) and integrin beta 3 (ITGB3) and a significant downregulation for FBLN5 in POP group. The decreased mRNA expression of FBLN5 in pathological samples was paralleled by a quantitative decrease in the corresponding protein, as Western Blot test highlighted. Our data provide an understanding of molecular mechanisms involved in POP-related pathophysiological processes and might represent an important tool to develop novel therapeutic agents for the treatment of this condition.

Highlights

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a common condition affecting million women around the world [1], and its pathophysiology is still largely unknown
Real-Time PCR results showed a significant upregulation for extracellular matrix protein 1 (ECM1) and integrin beta 3 (ITGB3) and a significant downregulation for FBLN5 in POP group
Using the RT2 Profiler PCR Array data analysis tool supplied by SuperArray Bioscience Corporation, we examined in Real-Time PCR assay only those genes whose difference was statically significant (p

Summary

Introduction

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a common condition affecting million women around the world [1], and its pathophysiology is still largely unknown. 11% of women experience some form of pelvic prolapse and some require surgical treatment [2, 3]. The resting diameter of the vaginal wall is increased and may distend up to three times in diameter compared with vaginal tissues from non-pregnant animals. These changes, come at the expense of vaginal wall strength; the pregnant vagina endured less maximal stress [5]

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