Reproduction Abstracts

Background: The human endometrium is a dynamic, multi-cellular sex steroid-dependent tissue subject to cyclical episodes of breakdown (menses), repair and regeneration. The mechanisms responsible for initiation of menses are well characterised; the molecular and cellular changes responsible for rapid repair are poorly understood. Re-epithelialisation of the tissue is thought to involve contributions from both the stromal and epithelial compartments. A role for androgens in end...

Introduction: Menstruation is an inflammatory process characterised by tissue breakdown, bleeding and recruitment of leukocytes. Resolution of this inflammation at menses is critical both to limiting tissue damage and to efficient repair. Apoptosis and clearance of apoptotic cells are necessary for this process, and are thought to involve neutrophils.Our aims were to (i) delineate neutrophil numbers and identify apoptosis in peri-menstrual endometrium an...

Introduction: Selective progesterone receptor modulators (SPRMs) have been reported to decrease cell proliferation within uterine fibroids, and reduce menstrual blood loss. The SPRM Ulipristal Acetate (UPA) has an anti-proliferative effect on fibroid tissue, yet its impact on endometrial cell proliferation is not well understood. The aim of this study was to quantify the effects of the SPRM UPA administration on endometrial cell proliferation within the human endometrium.<...

Introduction: Uterine fibroids cause pain, pressure symptoms and heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB). Fibroid growth is sex steroid dependent. The selective progesterone receptor (PR) modulator (SPRM), ulipristal acetate (UPA) reduces fibroid size and alleviates HMB in 90% of women. UPA has both agonist and antagonist properties and induces (S)PRM-associated endometrial changes (PAEC). The mechanism of UPA action and aetiology of PAEC are unknown. We propose that modulation of ster...