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Early Pregnancy (early + pregnancy)
Terms modified by Early Pregnancy Selected AbstractsLeptin Gene and Protein Expression in the Ovary During the Oestrous Cycle and Early Pregnancy in PigsREPRODUCTION IN DOMESTIC ANIMALS, Issue 5 2010N Smolinska Contents Leptin, the product of the obese gene, is the hormone originally identified in adipocytes. It is involved in the control of satiety and energy metabolism. More recent observations suggest that leptin plays an important role in reproduction. Leptin mRNA and protein have been found in the human and the murine ovary. However, the expression of leptin in the porcine ovary has not been examined. Therefore, the aim of the present work was to compare the expression levels of porcine leptin mRNA by semiquantitative RT-PCR and in situ hybridization, as well as leptin protein by Western blotting in the corpus luteum (CL) and ovarian stroma (OS) during mid- and late-luteal phase of the oestrous cycle as well as during days 14,16 and 30,32 of pregnancy. Leptin gene and protein expression in CL was increased on days 14,16 of the cycle compared with pregnant animals. Leptin gene expression in OS was higher during the late-luteal phase of the cycle than on days 30,32 after conception. However, comparison of leptin protein expression in OS between days 14,16 of the cycle and days 30,32 of pregnancy indicates a higher protein expression during pregnancy. Moreover, leptin gene expression was higher in porcine CL and OS on days 14,16 of pregnancy in comparison to days 30,32. Contrary to leptin mRNA expression, a higher leptin protein expression was observed on days 30,32 compared with days 14,16 after conception. In summary, the present study provides the first evidence that leptin mRNA and protein occur in porcine ovary and vary during the oestrous cycle and pregnancy. Moreover, the obtained results indicate that also locally synthesized leptin may participate in the control of pig reproduction by exercising its action at the ovarian level. [source] The Influence of Pre- and Post-ovulatory Insemination and Early Pregnancy on the Infiltration by Cells of the Immune System in the Sow OviductREPRODUCTION IN DOMESTIC ANIMALS, Issue 5 2006J Jiwakanon Contents The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of pre- and post-ovulatory insemination and early pregnancy on the distribution of immune cells in the oviduct. Eighteen sows were pre-ovulatory and sixteen sows were post-ovulatory inseminated and slaughtered at different times, 5,6 h after insemination, 20,25 h and approximately 70 h after ovulation, day 11 and day 19. Immediately after slaughter, oviductal samples of three different segments (isthmus, ampulla and infundibulum) were fixed, embedded in plastic resin and stained with toluidine blue or cryofixed and stored in a freezer at ,70°C until analysed by immunohistochemistry (pre-ovulatory inseminated sows) with an avidin,biotin peroxidase method. Quantitative and qualitative examinations of oviductal epithelium and subepithelial connective tissue were performed by light microscopy. After pre- or post-ovulatory insemination, neutrophils were not observed in the oviductal epithelium from any of the segments or groups. The numbers of intraepithelial lymphocytes of all sows as well as CD2- and CD3-positive cells of the pre-ovulatory inseminated sows were higher in the infundibulum than in the other segments (p , 0.001). In the subepithelial connective tissue of the pre-ovulatory inseminated sows, significantly higher numbers of lymphocytes (p , 0.001) and plasma cells (p , 0.001) were found in infundibulum than in isthmus. Neutrophils were found mainly in infundibulum, the number approximately 40 h after pre-ovulatory insemination was significantly higher (p , 0.05) than in the other groups and segments. Significantly higher numbers of CD2 than CD3-positive cells were found for all groups and segments. In the subepithelial connective tissue of post-ovulatory inseminated sows, the numbers of lymphocytes was higher (p , 0.001) at day 19 than up to 50 h after insemination and lower (p , 0.001) in isthmus than in ampulla and infundibulum. Neutrophils were found in infundibulum in almost all groups and the number was significantly higher (p , 0.05) in the infundibulum up to 50 h after insemination than in other segments. In the oviductal epithelium, no influence of insemination was found on the presence of phagocytes, i.e. neutrophils and macrophages, but on lymphocytes. In the infundibular connective tissue, pre-ovulatory insemination had an effect on neutrophil distribution, indicating an active immune response to insemination in the upper segment. Post-ovulatory insemination changed the oviductal immune cell pattern. [source] Expression of Cyclooxygenase-1 and -2 in the Porcine Endometrium during the Oestrous Cycle and Early PregnancyREPRODUCTION IN DOMESTIC ANIMALS, Issue 3 2006A Blitek Contents Cyclooxygenase (COX) is the rate-limiting enzyme that catalyses the initial step in prostaglandins (PGs) production. In the present studies, endometrial COX-1 and COX-2 expression throughout the oestrous cycle and early pregnancy was analysed in pigs using real-time reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), Western blot and immunohistochemistry. There were no changes in messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression for COX-1 in cyclic pigs. In pregnant animals, mRNA levels of this enzyme increased on days 22,25 (p < 0.001). However, no upregulation of COX-1 protein was detected. Quantification of COX-2 mRNA expression during the oestrous cycle revealed significant increases on days 10,12 and 14 (p < 0.001 and p < 0.01 vs days 2,4, respectively). Protein levels were also increased on day 14 when compared with days 2,12 and 18,20 after oestrus. In pregnant animals, the patterns of both COX-2 mRNA and protein expression were similar. Messenger RNA levels were higher on days 16 and 22,25 (p < 0.01 vs day 10). Moreover, the protein content tended to increase on days 16 and 22,25. COX-1 and COX-2 were localized in the luminal and glandular epithelium as well as in the uterine stroma. In contrast to COX-1, a positive immunostaining reaction for COX-2 was detected only on days 12,16 after ovulation and on days 14,16 of pregnancy. In conclusion, these results indicate specific patterns of COX-1 and COX-2 expression in the porcine endometrium throughout the oestrous cycle and early pregnancy. COX-2 rather than COX-1 seems to be the primary enzyme responsible for modulated PGs production at the time of luteolysis in cyclic and during implantation in pregnant animals. [source] Stage-specific Expression of Leukaemia Inhibitory Factor and its Receptor in Rabbit Pre-implantation Embryo and Uterine Epithelium During Early PregnancyREPRODUCTION IN DOMESTIC ANIMALS, Issue 1 2004T Lei Contents Leukaemia inhibitory factor (LIF) has been shown to play an important role in the development and implantation of blastocysts in mice. In the current study, the reverse transcription,polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was employed to examine the expression patterns of LIF and its receptor (LIFR) genes in rabbit embryos during pre-implantation development, and the uterine expression of LIF and LIFR was also evaluated by Western blotting. Transcripts for LIFR were detected within morula and blastocyst-stage embryos, while the LIF mRNA was only found in blastocysts (from early to fully expanded blastocoel cavities), indicating that embryo-derived LIF can act in an autocrine manner on the process of blastocyst formation. The expression levels of LIF and LIFR in uterine epithelium were gradually increased during pre-implantation period and reached their highest levels on days 6.5 of pregnancy, just before the time of blastocyst implantation, suggest that paracrine LIF circuit should exist between the endometrium and the early embryos, which may be involved in the embryo-maternal dialogue and important for the blastocyst implantation. The data present here show the stage-specific and dynamic expression patterns of LIF and LIFR, both in embryos and endometrium, during early pregnancy in rabbits, which indicated that LIF might play an important role in the pre-implantation development and subsequent implantation of rabbit embryos. [source] REVIEW ARTICLE: Control of Interferon-Tau Expression During Early Pregnancy in RuminantsAMERICAN JOURNAL OF REPRODUCTIVE IMMUNOLOGY, Issue 2 2009Alan D. Ealy Problem, A type I interferon (IFN), termed IFN-tau (,), is responsible for the establishment and maintenance of early pregnancy in cattle and sheep. The control of IFN, gene (IFNT) expression is not completely understood. Method of study, This article will provide an overview of recent progress made in understanding the dynamic expression pattern of IFNT during pre- and peri-attachment conceptus development. Results, Several ubiquitous transcriptional regulators (Ets2 and AP1) and at least two trophectoderm factors (Cdx2 and Dlx3) control IFNT transcription during early pregnancy. Co-activators (CBP/p300) are also involved in this process. At least two uterine-derived factors (GM-CSF and FGF2) stimulate IFN-, production in bovine trophectoderm, and multiple signaling pathways are functionally linked with IFNT expression. Conclusion, Although understanding the regulation of IFNT expression is far from complete, considerable progress has been made in uncovering how uterine-derived factors and key placental-specific transcriptional regulators control IFNT expression. [source] A Th2 Chemokine, TARC, Produced by Trophoblasts and Endometrial Gland Cells, Regulates the Infiltration of CCR4+ T Lymphocytes into Human Decidua at Early PregnancyAMERICAN JOURNAL OF REPRODUCTIVE IMMUNOLOGY, Issue 1 2002HIROSHI TSUDA PROBLEM:,A chemokine receptor, CCR4 preferentially expressed on type 2 helper T (Th2-type) cells, and its ligand, thymus and activation regulated chemokine -(TARC/CCL)- play important roles in the recruitment of Th2-type cells. We examined the distribution of CCR4 expressing CD4+ and CD8+ -T cells in human decidua at early pregnancy, and localized TARC in the decidual tissue and chorionic tissue. METHOD OF STUDY:,Decidual tissue was obtained by legal abortion. The percentages of CCR4 expressing CD4+ and CD8+ -T cells were analyzed by flow cytometry. Localization of TARC protein was evaluated by immunofluorescence staining. The expression of TARC mRNA in the choriocarcinoma cell line and endometrial cell line was analyzed by reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT,PCR). RESULT:,The percentages of CCR4+ cells in CD4+ -T cells and CD8+ -T cells were significantly increased in human early pregnancy decidua compared with those in peripheral blood. An another marker of human Th2 and Tc2 cells, CRTH2 molecules was also expressed on CCR4+CD4+ -T cells and CCR4+CD8+ -T cells. In addition, we found that trophoblasts, uterine epithelial cells and endometrial gland cells produce TARC by immunohistochemical staining and the RT-PCR method. CONCLUSION:,Our findings imply that TARC secreted in decidua mediates the infiltration of CCR4+ T-cell migration into the fetomaternal interface, decidua, resulting in the maintenance of pregnancy. [source] High NK Cell Activity in Early Pregnancy Correlates with Subsequent Abortion with Normal Chromosomes in Women with Recurrent AbortionAMERICAN JOURNAL OF REPRODUCTIVE IMMUNOLOGY, Issue 2 2001Hideto Yamada PROBLEM: The aim of this study was to assess the role of natural killer (NK) cells in pregnant women with a history of recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA). METHOD OF STUDY: Consecutive 66 pregnant women with a history of RSA were prospectively assessed for peripheral NK cell activity, percentage of the NK cell subsets, and subsequent pregnancy outcome. RESULTS: NK cell activity in women with subsequent live birth (group I) at 4,5 gestational weeks (GW) (mean±SD, 32.5±12.3%) significantly decreased at 6,7 GW (28.1±12.1%) and at 8,9 GW (28.0±11.8%). NK cell activity in women with subsequent abortion with normal chromosomes (group II) at 6,7 GW (41.2±19.0%) was significantly higher than that in group I women, while NK cell activity at 6,7 GW in women with subsequent abortion with abnormal chromosomes (group III) was the same as the level in group I women. CONCLUSIONS: High NK cell activity at 6,7 GW correlates with subsequent abortion with normal chromosomes. [source] What Factors in Early Pregnancy Indicate that the Mother Will Be Hit by Her Partner during the Year after Childbirth?BIRTH, Issue 2 2004A Nationwide Swedish Survey The purpose of this study was to document the prevalence and indicators in early pregnancy of a woman being hit by her partner during the year after childbirth. Method: Information was collected by a postal questionnaire in early pregnancy and 12 months after childbirth from the approximately 5,550 women in Sweden who visited an antenatal care clinic for the first time during one of three chosen weeks in 1999 and 2000. Results: Of the 3,266 recruited women, 2,563 returned the follow-up questionnaire. Being hit during the first year after childbirth was reported by 52 of the 2,563 (2%) women: 32 (61%) had been hit by their partner once, 12 (23%) twice, and 8 (15%) three or more times. Risk increased in women who were age 24 years or younger (3.9% had been hit), unmarried (7.1%), born in countries outside Europe (6.8%), with a partner born outside Europe (5.4%), had a low level of education (8.9%), and were unemployed (5.0%). In early pregnancy, women with back pain (4.0%), a chronic illness (4.1%), coital pain (6.1%), frequent depression-related symptoms (8.1%), stomach pain (3.8%), or a urinary tract problem (6.3%) were hit more often than others after childbirth. Conclusions: At least 2 percent of Swedish women giving birth in 2000 were hit by their partner during the year after childbirth. Using identified predictors during antenatal care may increase the likelihood of finding women at risk, thereby enhancing the possibility of interventions to prevent this crime and health hazard. [source] Expression of Genes in the Canine Pre-implantation Uterus and Embryo: Implications for an Active Role of the Embryo Before and During InvasionREPRODUCTION IN DOMESTIC ANIMALS, Issue 6 2008S Schäfer-Somi Contents The aim of the present study was to assess genes expressed in maternal uterine tissue and pre-implantation embryos which are presumably involved in maternal recognition and establishment of canine pregnancy. For this purpose, 10 pregnant bitches were ovariohysterectomized between days 10 and 12 after mating. Four non-pregnant bitches served as controls. Early pregnancy was verified by flushing the uterine horns with PBS solution. The collected embryos (n = 60) were stored deep-frozen (,80°C). Uterine tissue was excised, snaps frozen in liquid nitrogen and homogenized using TRI Reagent. All embryos from one litter were thawed together and also homogenized in TRI Reagent. RT-PCR was performed to prove mRNA expression of progesterone receptor, key enzymes of the prostaglandin synthesis pathway, selected growth factors, cytokines, immune cell receptors, major histocompatibility complex (MHC) and matrix-metalloproteinases (MMP). Only pregnant uteri revealed the presence of mRNA for interferon (IFN)-,, IL-4 and CD-8, which resembles the milieu in humans and other mammalians. Similarly, in day 10 embryos, mRNA for transforming growth factor-,, insulin-like growth factor-1,-2, hepatocyte growth factor, leukaemia inhibitor factor, tumour necrosis factor-,, interleukin-1,,-6,-8, cyclooxygenase-2, CD4+ cells, and MMP-2 and -9 were detected, but not MHC-I or -II. We therefore suppose that the canine embryo, like its human counterpart, actively initiates measures to prevent attacks from the maternal immune system to prepare its own adhesion, nidation, growth and further development. [source] Congenital malformations in infants whose mothers reported the use of folic acid in early pregnancy in Sweden.CONGENITAL ANOMALIES, Issue 4 2007A prospective population study ABSTRACT The use of folic acid prior to conception is generally recommended for the prevention of birth defects, notably neural tube defects. In a previous study from Sweden, based on interviews of women in early pregnancy, no such effect was found on the general malformation rate, but data for neural tube defects were scarce. Using data from the Swedish Medical Birth Register for the years 1995,2004, 20 891 women were identified who reported the use of folic acid in early pregnancy, but not of anticonvulsants. These women were compared to all other women who gave birth during the study period. Malformations in the infants born were identified from multiple sources. No reduction in the general malformation rate was seen among infants born to women who reported the use of folic acid (OR = 1.09, 95% CI 1.02,1.17) and no effect of neural tube defect rate was seen (RR = 1.35, 95% CI 0.82,2.22), based on 16 infants with neural tube defect whose mother reported the use of folic acid. No effect was seen on the rates of other malformations except for cardiac defects, where a statistically significant increased risk (notably for severe defects) was found (OR = 1.19, 95% CI 1.05,1.35). The effect of various deficiencies in data collection is discussed, but is unlikely to explain the lack of protective effect noticed. So far, it has not been possible to demonstrate a beneficial effect of folic acid supplementation on malformation risk in Sweden. A more complete ascertainment and detailed timing and dosage of folic acid use in a prospective study is recommended. [source] Lower levels of circulating IGF-I in Type 1 diabetic women with frequent severe hypoglycaemia during pregnancyDIABETIC MEDICINE, Issue 7 2008L. Ringholm Nielsen Abstract Aims Severe hypoglycaemia is a significant problem in pregnant women with Type 1 diabetes. We explored whether frequent severe hypoglycaemia during pregnancy in women with Type 1 diabetes is related to placental growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) levels. Methods A prospective, observational study of 107 consecutive pregnant women with Type 1 diabetes. Blood samples were drawn for IGF-I and placental GH analyses at 8, 14, 21, 27 and 33 weeks. Severe hypoglycaemic events were reported within 24 h. Results Eleven women (10%) experienced frequent severe hypoglycaemia (, 5 events), accounting for 60% of all events. Throughout pregnancy, IGF-I levels were 25% lower in these women (P < 0.005) compared with the remaining women, despite similar placental GH levels. Eighty per cent of the severe hypoglycaemic events occurred before 20 weeks when IGF-I levels were at their lowest. This finding was not explained by differences in insulin dose, median plasma glucose levels or glycated haemoglobin. History of severe hypoglycaemia the year preceding pregnancy and impaired hypoglycaemia awareness,being the only predictors of frequent severe hypoglycaemia in a logistic regression analysis,were not associated with IGF-I or placental GH levels at 8 weeks. Conclusions In women with Type 1 diabetes experiencing frequent severe hypoglycaemia during pregnancy, IGF-I levels are significantly lower compared with the remaining women despite similar placental GH levels. IGF-I levels are lowest in early pregnancy where the incidence of severe hypoglycaemia is highest. IGF-I may be a novel factor of interest in the investigation of severe hypoglycaemia in patients with Type 1 diabetes. [source] Body Dimensions of Infants Exposed to Antiepileptic Drugs In Utero: Observations Spanning 25 YearsEPILEPSIA, Issue 7 2000K. Wide Summary: Purpose: To investigate the influence of maternal antiepileptic drug (AED) treatment on pregnancy duration, birth weight, body length, head circumference, and intrauterine growth in infants exposed in utero to antiepileptic drugs in Sweden between 1973,1997, with 963 singleton infants. Methods: Data collected from (a) 1973,1981 (record linkage between a hospital discharge register and a medical birth register); (b) 1984,1995 (prospectively collected information in one defined catchment area with two delivery hospitals); and (c) 1995,1997 (medical birth register data). Observed numbers of infants below a defined size for body measurements compared with expected numbers calculated from all births in Sweden after stratification for year of birth, maternal age, parity, and education or smoking habits in early pregnancy. Standard deviation scores estimated with same stratification procedures. Results: Fraction of monotherapy exposures increased from ,40% to ,90% from 1973 to 1997. Significantly increased numbers of infants with small body measurements found in exposed group. Negative influence on body dimensions decreased over time. More marked effects found in infants exposed to polytherapy. In monotherapy, only infants exposed to carbamazepine consistently showed reduction in body dimensions. Significant effect on gestational age in girls and on number of small for gestational age (<2 SD) in boys. Conclusions: Polytherapy with antiepileptic drugs and negative influence on body dimensions decreased. In monotherapy, only carbamazepine has a negative influence on body dimensions in this study. [source] Safety of rituximab therapy during the first trimester of pregnancy: a case historyEUROPEAN JOURNAL OF HAEMATOLOGY, Issue 4 2004Eva Kimby Abstract: The optimal treatment of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL) during pregnancy is currently undefined. The potential teratogenic effects of conventional chemotherapy preclude its use during the first trimester of pregnancy. We report the case of a pregnant woman with relapsed indolent follicular NHL who was treated with rituximab (unintentionally) during the first trimester. The treatment stabilised the disease. Following an uncomplicated pregnancy, a healthy child was born at full term and careful haematological and immunological monitoring has revealed no adverse effects resulting from exposure to rituximab. Data of using rituximab during pregnancy are scarce, but the present case shows that rituximab may be one option for treatment of NHL in early pregnancy. [source] Ultrastructure of the placenta of the tammar wallaby, Macropus eugenii: comparison with the grey short-tailed opossum, Monodelphis domesticaJOURNAL OF ANATOMY, Issue 2 2002Claudia Freyer Abstract The ultrastructure of the tammar placenta was studied throughout pregnancy. The uterine epithelium grows from a columnar to an enlarged, undulating epithelium between early gestation and mid-gestation when the shell coat that surrounds the marsupial conceptus ruptures. Trophectoderm and uterine epithelium do not form syncytia, nor does invasion of the endometrium occur at any stage of pregnancy. Uterine secretion is provided to both the bilaminar and the trilaminar side of the yolk sac placenta up to birth. Fenestrations, abundant vesicles and lumenal processes of maternal capillaries, as well as deep basal folds of the uterine epithelium, suggest that there is transfer of hemotrophes adjacent to both parts of the yolk sac. In contrast, in the grey short-tailed opossum, these structures are lacking. The yolk sacs of adjacent embryos fuse to form a common yolk sac cavity, thus losing most of the bilaminar yolk sac. The bilaminar and trilaminar components of the yolk sac placenta of the tammar are less different in structure and function than those of the grey short-tailed opossum, but both types are fully functional placentas. The extended secretory phase of the tammar uterus and the maternal recognition of early pregnancy appear to be derived characters of macropodid marsupials. [source] Role of EG-VEGF in human placentation: Physiological and pathological implicationsJOURNAL OF CELLULAR AND MOLECULAR MEDICINE, Issue 8b 2009Pascale Hoffmann Abstract Pre-eclampsia (PE), the major cause of maternal morbidity and mortality, is thought to be caused by shallow invasion of the maternal decidua by extravillous trophoblasts (EVT). Data suggest that a fine balance between the expressions of pro- and anti-invasive factors might regulate EVT invasiveness. Recently, we showed that the expression of the new growth factor endocrine gland-derived vascular endothelial growth factor (EG-VEGF) is high in early pregnancy but falls after 11 weeks, suggesting an essential role for this factor in early pregnancy. Using human villous explants and HTR-8/SVneo, a first trimester extravillous trophoblast cell line, we showed differential expression of EG-VEGF receptors, PKR1 and PKR2, in the placenta and demonstrated that EG-VEGF inhibits EVT migration, invasion and tube-like organisation. EG-VEGF inhibitory effect on invasion was supported by a decrease in matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and MMP-9 production. Interference with PKR2 expression, using specific siRNAs, reversed the EG-VEGF-induced inhibitory effects. Furthermore, we determined EG-VEGF circulating levels in normal and PE patients. Our results showed that EG-VEGF levels were highest during the first trimester of pregnancy and decreased thereafter to non-pregnant levels. More important, EG-VEGF levels were significantly elevated in PE patients compared with age-matched controls. These findings identify EG-VEGF as a novel paracrine regulator of trophoblast invasion. We speculate that a failure to correctly down-regulate placental expression of EG-VEGF at the end of the first trimester of pregnancy might lead to PE. [source] Phosphorylated osteopontin promotes migration of human choriocarcinoma cells via a p70 S6 kinase-dependent pathwayJOURNAL OF CELLULAR BIOCHEMISTRY, Issue 6 2005Rania Al-Shami Abstract This study examined the role of osteopontin (OPN), a phosphorylated secreted glycoprotein, in the promotion of trophoblastic cell migration, an early event in the embryo implantation process. Three human choriocarcinoma cell lines, namely JAR, BeWo, and JEG-3, were treated with variants of OPN differing in the extent of phosphorylation following sequential dephosphorylation with tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP), and their migratory response was measured. The highly phosphorylated human milk form of OPN (OPN-1) strongly triggered migration in all three cell lines, whereas the less phosphorylated variants, OPN-2a and OPN-2b, failed to stimulate migration. JAR cell migration in response to OPN-1 was accompanied by a rapid rearrangement of actin filaments to the cellular membrane. Using broad spectrum protein kinase profiling, we identified p70 S6 kinase as a major signal transduction pathway activated by OPN-1 during the migratory response in JAR cells. Activation was blocked completely by rapamycin and LY294002, thus demonstrating that OPN-1-stimulated migration occurs through mTOR and PI3K pathways, respectively. Conversely, PD98059 did not affect the activation of p70 S6 kinase by OPN-1, therefore, this response does not involve the Ras/ MAPK signaling cascade. Together, these data show that the highly phosphorylated human OPN-1 can stimulate trophoblastic cell migration and provides evidence for the involvement of the PI3K/mTOR/p70 S6 kinase pathway in the JAR cells response. Because both OPN and TRAP are expressed in the uterus during early pregnancy, it is conceivable that extracellular phosphatases such as TRAP may modify OPN charge state and thus modulate cell migration. © 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Identification of ,hot spots' of obesity and being underweight in early pregnancy in LiverpoolJOURNAL OF HUMAN NUTRITION & DIETETICS, Issue 3 2009J. C. Abayomi Abstract Background: Obesity and being underweight in pregnancy are related to an increased risk of maternal and foetal morbidity, yet their prevalence is often unknown. The present study aimed to identify neighbourhoods with a higher than average prevalence or ,hot spots' of obesity and/or being underweight among first trimester pregnant women. Methods: A database was compiled consisting of postcode, height and weight for 7981 women who had booked-in for antenatal care between July 2004 and June 2005 at Liverpool Women's Hospital. Body mass index (BMI) was calculated and women were categorised accordingly. Postcodes for 6865 cases across Merseyside were converted to geolocations (pin-points on a map) using conversion software (http://www.census.ac.uk/cdu/). Results: There was a very high prevalence of being overweight (27%) and obesity (17%); 3.8% of women were underweight and probably malnourished (BMI < 18.5 kg m,2); and a further 10.7% of women were possibly malnourished (BMI < 20.0 kg m,2. Deriving case density from the geolocations allowed visualisation and identification of six neighbourhoods with above average levels of obesity and three neighbourhoods had marked concentrations of both being underweight and obesity. Conclusions: These neighbourhoods, particularly those identified as ,hot spots' for both being underweight and obesity, include some of the most deprived wards in the UK. As dietetic intervention may help to promote optimal weight gain during pregnancy and improve dietary intake for pregnant women and their families, primary health care providers should target these localities with a high prevalence of low and high BMI as a priority. [source] Expression of nidogens in rat uterus and embryo during decidualization and implantationJOURNAL OF MORPHOLOGY, Issue 7 2006Hakan Öner Abstract The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the expression of nidogen-1 and nidogen-2 and their possible role in decidualization and implantation events during early pregnancy in rats. The tissue samples were examined from pregnant animals between gestational days 1,8 using immunocytochemistry. The uterine luminal epithelium, the glandular epithelium, and the myometrial smooth muscle cells stained strongly from gestational days 1,8 with both nidogen antibodies. At day 4 the decidual reaction areas began to appear in the stromal matrix and immunostaining of both nidogens revealed that the basement membrane of the surface epithelium was discontinuous. The differentiation of stromal cells into decidual cells was seen at gestational day 5 and both nidogens were weakly expressed in the decidualizing cells. At day 6, nidogen-2 immunoreactivity was higher in the primary decidual cells close to the embryo than nidogen-1, and during development of the decidual tissue both nidogens appeared in the endometrial stromal cells. At day 7, while expression of both nidogens declined in the primary decidual cells, their expression was markedly observed in the secondary decidual cells close to the myometrium. At day 8, expression of both nidogens was also observed to increase in the primary decidual cells. While nidogen-2 expression was seen in the parietal endoderm and primary ectoderm of the rat embryos at this developmental stage, nidogen-1 expression was only detected in the parietal endoderm. These results indicate that nidogen-1 and nidogen-2 could play important roles during embryogenesis, decidualization, and implantation in the endometrium of rat uterus. J. Morphol. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Multiple Roles for the Endocannabinoid System During the Earliest Stages of Life: Pre- and Postnatal DevelopmentJOURNAL OF NEUROENDOCRINOLOGY, Issue 2008E. Fride The endocannabinoid system, including its receptors (CB1 and CB2), endogenous ligands (,endocannabinoids'), synthesising and degrading enzymes, as well as transporter molecules, has been detected from the earliest stages of embryonic development and throughout pre- and postnatal development. In addition, the endocannabinoids, notably 2-arachidonyl glycerol, are also present in maternal milk. During three distinct developmental stages (i.e. embryonic implantation, prenatal brain development and postnatal suckling), the endocannabinoid system appears to play an essential role for development and survival. Thus, during early pregnancy, successful embryonic passage through the oviduct and implantation into the uterus both require critical enzymatic control of optimal anandamide levels at the appropriate times and sites. During foetal life, the cannabinoid CB1 receptor plays a major role in brain development, regulating neural progenitor differentiation into neurones and glia and guiding axonal migration and synaptogenesis. Postnatally, CB1 receptor blockade interferes with the initiation of milk suckling in mouse pups, by inducing oral motor weakness, which exposes a critical role for CB1 receptors in the initiation of milk suckling by neonates, possibly by interfering with innervation of the tongue muscles. Manipulating the endocannabinoid system by pre- and/or postnatal administration of cannabinoids or maternal marijuana consumption, has significant, yet subtle effects on the offspring. Thus, alterations in the dopamine, GABA and endocannabioid systems have been reported while enhanced drug seeking behaviour and impaired executive (prefrontal cortical) function have also been observed. The relatively mild nature of the disruptive effects of prenatal cannabinoids may be understood in the framework of the intricate timing requirements and frequently biphasic effects of the (endo)cannabinoids. In conclusion, the endocannabinoid system plays several key roles in pre- and postnatal development. Future studies should further clarify the mechanisms involved and provide a better understanding of the adverse effects of prenatal exposure, in order to design strategies for the treatment of conditions such as infertility, mental retardation and failure-to-thrive. [source] Noradrenergic Innervation of the Ventromedial Hypothalamus is Involved in Mating-Induced Pseudopregnancy in the Female RatJOURNAL OF NEUROENDOCRINOLOGY, Issue 8 2006L. E. Northrop The ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH) is an oestrogen-responsive area known to facilitate female sexual behaviour in the rat. The VMH is innervated by noradrenergic neurones projecting from the brain stem, and it has been demonstrated that noradrenaline receptor activation in the VMH plays a role in the expression of the lordosis reflex. Noradrenaline has been shown to be released within the VMH after a female receives vaginocervical stimulation (VCS) from the male during mating. VCS also is required to induce twice-daily surges of prolactin (PRL) characteristic of early pregnancy or pseudopregnancy (PSP). To determine whether noradrenaline within the ventrolateral ventromedial hypothalamus (VMHvl) plays a facilitatory role in initiation of PSP, we administered the ,1 -noradrenergic receptor agonist, phenylephrine, and the ,2 -autoreceptor antagonist, yohimbine, unilaterally into the VMHvl. Phenylephrine stimulated PSP in 85.7% of females given an amount of VCS known to be subthreshold for the induction of PSP, whereas saline infusion (0%) or cannula misplacement (7.7%) were ineffective. Yohimbine had a similar effect, inducing PSP in 85.7% of females, whereas 7.6% of both control groups together showed PSP. Finally, bilateral blockade of ,1 -receptors using prazosin blocked PSP in 100% of females given sufficient VCS to induce PSP, whereas saline infusion or misplaced intracerebral cannulae failed to prevent PSP in any animal. In all experiments, vaginal dioestrous was indicative of PSP, in that animals showed a mean number of days between oestrus of 12.8 ± 0.9. The results of the study demonstrate an important role for the VMHvl in initiation of PSP and suggest that the release of noradrenaline in the VMHvl at the time of mating contributes to neuroendocrine mechanisms responsible for establishing PSP in the female rat. [source] Opioid Receptor Subtypes Involved in the Regulation of Prolactin Secretion During Pregnancy and LactationJOURNAL OF NEUROENDOCRINOLOGY, Issue 3 2003Z. B. Andrews Abstract Afferent endogenous opioid neuronal systems facilitate prolactin secretion in a number of physiological conditions including pregnancy and lactation, by decreasing tuberoinfundibular dopamine (TIDA) inhibitory tone. The aim of this study was to investigate the opioid receptor subtypes involved in regulating TIDA neuronal activity and therefore facilitating prolactin secretion during early pregnancy, late pregnancy and lactation in rats. Selective opioid receptor antagonists nor-binaltorphimine (, -receptor antagonist, 15 µg/5 µl), beta funaltrexamine (, -receptor antagonist, 5 µg/5 µl) and naltrindole (, -receptor antagonist, 5 µg/5 µl) or saline were administered intracerebroventricularly (i.c.v.) on day 8 of pregnancy during a nocturnal prolactin surge, on day 21 of pregnancy during the ante partum prolactin surge or on day 7 of lactation before the onset of a suckling stimulus. Serial blood samples were collected at regular time intervals, via chronic indwelling jugular cannulae, before and after drug administration and plasma prolactin was determined by radioimmunoassay. TIDA neuronal activity was measured using the 3,4-dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) : dopamine ratio in the median eminence 2 h 30 min after i.c.v. drug injection. In each experimental condition, plasma prolactin was significantly inhibited by both , - and , -receptor antagonists, whereas the , -receptor antagonist had no effect compared to saline-injected controls. Similarly, nor-binaltorphimine and beta funaltrexamine significantly increased the median eminence DOPAC : dopamine ratio during early and late pregnancy, and lactation whereas naltrindole had no effect compared to saline-injected controls. These data suggest that TIDA neuronal activity, and subsequent prolactin secretion, is regulated by endogenous opioid peptides acting at both , - and , -opioid receptors during prolactin surges of early pregnancy, late pregnancy and lactation. [source] ,-Endorphin Cells in the Arcuate Nucleus: Projections to the Supraoptic Nucleus and Changes in Expression During Pregnancy and ParturitionJOURNAL OF NEUROENDOCRINOLOGY, Issue 10 2002A. J. Douglas Abstract Supraoptic nucleus oxytocin neurone activity and secretion are inhibited in late pregnancy and parturition by endogenous opioids. Here, we investigated alterations in the projections and gene expression of ,-endorphin/pro-opiomelanocortin neurones in the arcuate nucleus in the pregnant rat. All regions of the arcuate nucleus were found to contain cells immunoreactive for ,-endorphin fluorescent microbeads retrogradely transported from the supraoptic nucleus, and double-labelled neurones (,-endorphin plus microbeads), showing that ,-endorphin neurones throughout the arcuate nucleus project to the supraoptic nucleus. There was an increase in the number of ,-endorphin-immunoreactive cells in the arcuate nucleus and an increase in the density of ,-endorphin fibres within the supraoptic nucleus and peri-supraoptic region in late pregnancy and parturition, suggesting enhanced expression of ,-endorphin and increased ,-endorphin innervation of the supraoptic nucleus. Pro-opiomelanocortin mRNA expression in the arcuate nucleus increased in late compared to early pregnancy: the number of positive neurones significantly increased in the caudal region. Fos expression (an indicator of neuronal activation) in the arcuate nucleus was colocalized in ,-endorphin neurones in both proestrus and parturient rats, but the number of positive cells did not increase during parturition, suggesting lack of activation of ,-endorphin neurones at birth. Thus, ,-endorphin cells in the arcuate nucleus project to the supraoptic nucleus and increased innervation during pregnancy may explain the enhanced endogenous opioid inhibition of oxytocin neurones. [source] Dietary Zinc Supplementation Throughout Pregnancy Protects Against Fetal Dysmorphology and Improves Postnatal Survival After Prenatal Ethanol Exposure in MiceALCOHOLISM, Issue 4 2009Brooke L. Summers Background:, We have previously demonstrated that ethanol teratogenicity is associated with metallothionein-induced fetal zinc (Zn) deficiency, and that maternal subcutaneous Zn treatment given with ethanol in early pregnancy prevents fetal abnormalities and spatial memory impairments in mice. Here we investigated whether dietary Zn supplementation throughout pregnancy can also prevent ethanol-related dysmorphology. Methods:, Pregnant mice were injected with saline or 25% ethanol (0.015 ml/g intraperitoneally at 0 and 4 hours) on gestational day (GD) 8 and fed either a control (35 mg Zn/kg) or a Zn-supplemented diet (200 mg Zn/kg) from GD 0 to 18. Fetuses from the saline, saline + Zn, ethanol and ethanol + Zn groups were assessed for external birth abnormalities on GD 18. In a separate cohort of mice, postnatal growth and survival of offspring from these treatment groups were examined from birth until postnatal day 60. Results:, Fetuses from dams treated with ethanol alone in early pregnancy had a significantly greater incidence of physical abnormalities (26%) compared to those from the saline (10%), saline + Zn (9%), or ethanol + Zn (12%) groups. The incidence of abnormalities in ethanol + Zn-supplemented fetuses was not different from saline-treated fetuses. While ethanol exposure did not affect the number of fetal resorptions or pre- or postnatal weight, there were more stillbirths with ethanol alone, and cumulative postnatal mortality was significantly higher in offspring exposed to ethanol alone (35% deaths) compared to all other treatment groups (13.5 to 20.5% deaths). Mice supplemented with Zn throughout pregnancy had higher plasma Zn concentrations than those in un-supplemented groups. Conclusions:, These findings demonstrate that dietary Zn supplementation throughout pregnancy ameliorates dysmorphology and postnatal mortality caused by ethanol exposure in early pregnancy. [source] Alcohol Consumption among Low-Income Pregnant LatinasALCOHOLISM, Issue 11 2005Christina D. Chambers Abstract: Background: Due to changing cultural norms, Latinas of childbearing age residing in the U.S. may be at increasing risk of drinking harmful levels of alcohol during pregnancy, and may also be unaware of the risks for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders associated with this behavior. We assessed the prevalence of alcohol consumption in a sample of low-income pregnant Latinas and examined risk factors for alcohol use in the periconceptional period. Methods: As part of a larger intervention trial, a cross-sectional in-home interview study was conducted among a sample of 100 pregnant low-income Latinas receiving services from the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) in San Diego County, California. Results: Fifty-seven percent of respondents indicated they were either life-time abstainers or had not consumed any alcohol in the periconceptional period. Forty-three percent reported some alcohol use in the three months prior to recognition of the current pregnancy, and 20% reported at least one binge episode of four or more standard drinks during that time frame. Five percent reported drinking seven or more drinks per week, and 8% continued drinking alcohol after recognition of pregnancy. Significant predictors of any alcohol use in the periconceptional period included English language/higher level of acculturation, younger maternal age, lower parity, higher level of education, younger age at first drink, and having ever smoked. Women who were aware of alcohol warning messages and /or had more knowledge of the Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) were significantly more likely to have consumed alcohol in the periconceptional period. Frequency of periconceptional use of alcohol did not differ between women who planned or did not plan the pregnancy. Conclusion: The prevalence and pattern of early pregnancy alcohol consumption in this sample of Latinas is similar to patterns noted in other race/ethnic groups in the U.S. Level of knowledge about FAS and awareness of warning messages was not protective for early pregnancy alcohol consumption, suggesting that specific knowledge was insufficient to prevent exposure or that other factors reinforce maintenance of alcohol consumption in early pregnancy. Selective interventions in low-income Latinas are warranted, and should be focused on women of reproductive age who are binge or frequent drinkers and who are at risk of becoming pregnant. [source] Determination of gestational age in medium and small size bitches using ultrasonographic fetal measurementsJOURNAL OF SMALL ANIMAL PRACTICE, Issue 7 2000G. C. Luvoni A study was undertaken to estimate gestational age, in terms of days from parturition, in medium and small size dogs by ultrasonographic examination. Serial ultrasonographic examinations were performed in four medium size pregnant bitches throughout two consecutive pregnancies and three small size pregnant bitches throughout one pregnancy, in order to determine the range of variation in the size of selected fetal structures throughout gestation. Formulae were derived to estimate the expected delivery date for both groups of bitches by measuring anatomical fetal structures, so that this method could be applied to a large number of different breeds. The determination of gestational age could be achieved with reasonable precision by selecting fetal structures. Prediction of parturition date was accurate to within one day by ultrasonographic measurement of the diameter of the gestational sac in early pregnancy and the biparietal diameter in late pregnancy in both small size breeds and medium size breeds. [source] Complement 3 deficiency impairs early pregnancy in miceMOLECULAR REPRODUCTION & DEVELOPMENT, Issue 7 2009Wang-Ngai Chow Human oviductal cells produce complement-3 (C3) and its derivative, iC3b. These molecules are important in immune responses. Our recent study suggested that iC3b also possessed embryotrophic activity and it stimulates the blastulation and hatching rates of in vitro cultured mouse embryos. The objective is to study the impact of C3 deficiency on early pregnancy in vivo using homozygous C3-deficient (C3KO) and wild-type (C3WT) mice. C3 protein was undetectable in the reproductive tissues of C3KO mice. Deficiency in C3 is associated with significantly longer estrous cycle (P,=,0.037). No significant difference was found in the ovulation rate, total cell count in blastocysts and implantation rate between the wild-type and the C3KO mice, though C3KO mice tended to have lower values in the latter two parameters. On day 15 of pregnancy, C3KO mice had fewer conceptus (P,<,0.001) and higher resorption rate (P,<,0.001) than that of C3WT mice. The fetal and placental weights (P,<,0.001) were lower in the C3KO mice. The placenta of C3KO mice had smaller spongiotrophoblast (P,=,0.001) and labyrinth (P,=,0.037). Deficiency in C3 is associated with mild impairment in early pregnancy including longer estrous cycle and higher resorption rates after implantation. The impairment may be related to compromised placental development leading to under-developed fetuses. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 76: 647,655, 2009. © 2009 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] In vivo expression of interferon tau mRNA by the embryonic trophoblast and uterine concentrations of interferon tau protein during early pregnancy in the cowMOLECULAR REPRODUCTION & DEVELOPMENT, Issue 4 2006R.S. Robinson Abstract In this study, we have measured uterine concentrations of interferon tau and intensity of embryonic interferon tau mRNA expression between day 14 and 18 in cows. While interferon tau concentrations rose dramatically (P,<,0.001) from day 14 to 18, there was no significant increase in the intensity of expression of interferon tau mRNA by the trophoblast. When results were analyzed on the basis of embryo size, well elongated embryos (>10 cm) produced significantly (P,<,0.001) more interferon tau than smaller embryos but showed similar levels of interferon tau mRNA expression. These results demonstrate that the increase in interferon tau concentrations responsible for the maternal recognition of pregnancy results from the increase in embryo size during elongation and not from any upregulation of mRNA expression. Mol. Reprod. Dev. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Differential expression of transcriptional repressor snail gene at implantation site in mouse uterusMOLECULAR REPRODUCTION & DEVELOPMENT, Issue 2 2006Xing-Hong Ma Abstract The snail superfamily of zinc-finger transcription factors is involved in pronounced cell movements during both embryonic development and tumor progression. This study was to examine snail expression in mouse uterus during early pregnancy and its regulation under pseudopregnancy, delayed implantation, steroid hormone treatment, and artificial decidualization by in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry. There was a low level of snail mRNA signal and immunostaining in mouse uteri on day 1,4 of pregnancy. When embryo implanted on day 5, both snail mRNA signal and immunostaining were strongly detected in the subluminal stroma immediately surrounding the implanting blastocyst, but not detected in the inter-implantation sites. Under delayed implantation, there was no detectable snail expression. After delayed implantation was terminated by estrogen treatment and embryo implanted, there was a strong level of snail mRNA and immunostaining in the subluminal stroma surrounding the implanting blastocyst, which was similar to that on day 5 of pregnancy. Furthermore, there was no detectable snail expression in mouse uterus on day 5 of pseudopregnancy. From day 6,8 of pregnancy, both snail mRNA signal and immunostaining were detected in the decidua. Our data suggest that snail may play an important role during mouse embryo implantation. Mol. Reprod. Dev. © 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Differential expression and activation of Stat3 during mouse embryo implantation and decidualizationMOLECULAR REPRODUCTION & DEVELOPMENT, Issue 1 2004Chun-Bo Teng Abstract Signal transducer and activator of transcription (STATs) can be activated by many cytokines and growth factors. Stat3, a member of STAT family, is essential for embryonic development. Stat3 is specifically activated during mouse embryo implantation. This study was to investigate the expression, activation, and regulation of Stat3 in mouse uterus during early pregnancy, pseudopregnancy, delayed implantation, artificial decidualization, and hormonal treatments using in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry. There was a strong level of Stat3 phosphorylation in the luminal epithelium only at the midnight of day 4 pregnancy, which coincides with attachment reaction between the blastocyst and luminal epithelium. However, there was no detectable Stat3 phosphorylation at the corresponding period during pseudopregnancy. On day 5 of pregnancy, Stat3 phosphorylation was strongly observed in the luminal epithelium and the stroma surrounding the implanting blastocyst at implantation sites, but not at the inter-implantation sites. Stat3 phosphorylation was also not detected on day 5 of pseudopregnancy. Stat3 phosphorylation was at a high level in the decidual cells on days 6,8 of pregnancy. Under artificial decidualization, Stat3 was also phosphorylated in the decidual cells. In the ovariectomized mice, there was no Stat3 expression and activation in the uterus. Progesterone had no obvious effects. However, Stat3 mRNA expression and phosphorylation were significantly stimulated by estrogen treatment. Our data suggest that Stat3 phosphorylation may be important for mouse embryo implantation and decidualization, and may also be regulated by maternal estrogen. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 69: 1,10, 2004. © Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] Investigation of estrogen receptor , and , mRNA expression in the pregnant rat uterusMOLECULAR REPRODUCTION & DEVELOPMENT, Issue 4 2004Renáta Minorics Abstract Although the expressions of the estrogen receptor (ER) subtypes have been demonstrated in a large number of estrogen target tissues, to date no evidence has been reported as to how the expressions of the alpha (,) and beta (,) ER subtype mRNA alter in the rat uterus during pregnancy. The aims of the present study were to obtain information concerning the changes in the ER and the progesterone receptor (PR) in early pregnancy and to determine the alterations in the ER subtype mRNA in the pregnant rat uterus. To demonstrate the ER and PR densities, radioligand saturation assay was used. The reverse-transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was applied to characterize the alterations in the ER subtype mRNA. ER expression was highest on day 5 of pregnancy (Bmax,=,637.40,±,76.10 fmol/mg). The PR expression did not change significantly until day 8, but the protein density was increased on day 8 of pregnancy. The ER, mRNA expression was active during pregnancy, maximum expression was attained on day 5; a gradual decrease was then observed until the second half of pregnancy when its expression continuously increased up to the day of labor (day 22). Since the attachment of the blastocyst, an event that is dependent on estradiol in the progesterone-primed uterus of the rat, occurs on day 5 of pregnancy and the levels of the ER protein and the ER, mRNA on day 5 of pregnancy was the highest, it could be supposed that this subtype of ER might regulate implantation. The ER, mRNA was detected only from day 7 to day 15, with a maximum level on day 8. The expression of this ER subtype might be related to the development of decidual tissue. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 68: 463,468, 2004. © 2004 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [source] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||