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Niels Uldbjerg - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • trefoil factor peptide 3 is positively correlated with the viscoelastic properties of the Cervical Mucus Plug
    Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica, 2017
    Co-Authors: Sara Kjaer Bastholm, Naja Becher, Lea Kirstine Hansen, Mie Hesselund Samson, Peter Stubbe, Ioannis S Chronakis, Ebba Nexo, Niels Uldbjerg
    Abstract:

    Introduction The viscoelastic properties of the Cervical Mucus Plug are considered essential for the occlusion of the Cervical canal and thereby for protection against ascending infections during pregnancy. Factors controlling this property are virtually unknown. This study explores a possible role of trefoil factor peptides 1, 2 and 3 (TFF1–3); peptides believed to influence Mucus viscosity. Material and methods The study is based on spontaneously shed Cervical Mucus Plugs from 14 women in active labor. The viscoelastic properties; the elastic modulus (G’) and the viscous modulus (G”) were determined by an oscillatory rheometer. The concentrations of TFF1–3 were measured by an in-house enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Associations were analyzed by random-effects generalized least-squares regression analyses. Results Median (range) concentrations of TFF1, TFF2 and TFF3 were 3.1 (1.2–8.6), 1.1 (<0.006–3.7) and 1000 (170–5300) nmol/g Cervical Mucus Plug, respectively. The TFF3 concentration was associated with G’ (regression coefficient 11.7 Pa/Log nm; 95% CI 3.0–20.4, p = 0.009) and G” (regression coefficient 3.2 Pa/Log nm; 95% CI 1.5–5.0, p < 0.001). Conclusion We suggest that TFF3 plays a role in the viscoelastic properties of the Cervical Mucus Plug.

  • the viscoelastic properties of the Cervical Mucus Plug
    Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica, 2014
    Co-Authors: Sara Kjaer Bastholm, Naja Becher, Peter Stubbe, Ioannis S Chronakis, Niels Uldbjerg
    Abstract:

    Objective To characterize the viscoelastic properties of Cervical Mucus Plugs (CMPs) shed during labor at term. Design Experimental research. Setting Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark. Population/Sample Spontaneously shed CMPs from 18 healthy women in active labor. Methods Viscoelastic properties of CMPs were investigated with a dynamic oscillatory rheometer using frequency and stress sweep experiments within the linear viscoelastic region. Main outcome measures The rheological variables obtained were as follows: elastic modulus (G′), viscous modulus (G″) and tan delta (G″/G′). Random-effects regression was used for statistical analysis. Results All CMPs showed solid-like viscoelastic behavior. This was substantiated by the elastic modulus which was three to four times greater than the viscous modulus and by tan delta, which was <1 at all frequencies. Mean tan delta at 0.01 Hz was 0.38 (95% CI 0.34–0.43) and 0.27 (95% CI 0.23–0.32) at 1 Hz. The elastic modulus could be described by the relation G′(ω) = KωA [mean R2 0.95 (95% CI 0.93–0.98)]. Despite relatively large variation in the rheological properties within CMPs, rheological variables obtained from frequency sweeps differed significantly among CMPs (p < 0.05). Conclusion The CMPs are solid-like viscoelastic structures. These rheological characteristics are probably essential for the CMP's ability to form and sustain a Plug in the Cervical canal during pregnancy, thereby reducing the risk of ascending infections. The technique described here might be used for evaluation of an association between CMP viscoelasticity and preterm delivery.

  • the Cervical Mucus Plug inhibits but does not block the passage of ascending bacteria from the vagina during pregnancy
    Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica, 2014
    Co-Authors: Lea Kirstine Hansen, Naja Becher, Sara Kjaer Bastholm, Julie Glavind, Mette Ramsing, Chong J Kim, Roberto Romero, Jorgen Skov Jensen, Niels Uldbjerg
    Abstract:

    Objective To evaluate the microbial load and the inflammatory response in the distal and proximal parts of the Cervical Mucus Plug. Design Experimental research. Population Twenty women with a normal, singleton pregnancy. Sample Vaginal swabs and specimens from the distal and proximal parts of the Cervical Mucus Plug. Methods Immunohistochemistry, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, quantitative polymerase chain reaction and histology. Results The total bacterial load (16S rDNA) was significantly lower in the Cervical Mucus Plug compared with the vagina (p = 0.001). Among women harboring Ureaplasma parvum, the median genome equivalents/g were 1574 (interquartile range 2526) in the proximal part, 657 (interquartile range 1620) in the distal part and 60 240 (interquartile range 96 386) in the vagina. Histological examinations and quantitative polymerase chain reaction revealed considerable amounts of lactobacilli and inflammatory cells in both parts of the Cervical Mucus Plug. The matrix metalloproteinase-8 concentration was decreased in the proximal part of the Plug compared with the distal part (p = 0.08). Conclusion The Cervical Mucus Plug inhibits, but does not block, the passage of Ureaplasma parvum during its ascending route from the vagina through the Cervical canal.

  • matrix metalloproteinases in the Cervical Mucus Plug in relation to gestational age Plug compartment and preterm labor
    Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology, 2010
    Co-Authors: Naja Becher, Merete Hein, Carl Christian Danielsen, Niels Uldbjerg
    Abstract:

    Background High concentrations of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) have been identified in the Cervical Mucus Plug (CMP) at term of pregnancy. Their physiological and pathophysiological implications, however, remain to be elucidated, and CMPs from preterm labor have never been examined. This study was therefore conducted to describe the concentrations of MMP-2, TIMP-1, MMP-8 and MMP-9 in the CMP in relation to gestational age, IL-8 as an indicator of inflammation, compartment of the CMP, and preterm labor.

  • balance between matrix metalloproteinases mmp and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases timp in the Cervical Mucus Plug estimated by determination of free non complexed timp
    Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology, 2008
    Co-Authors: Naja Becher, Merete Hein, Niels Uldbjerg, Carl Christian Danielsen
    Abstract:

    Background The Cervical Mucus Plug (CMP) is a semi-solid structure with antibacterial properties positioned in the Cervical canal during pregnancy. The CMP contains high concentrations of matrix metalloproteinase 8 and 9 (MMP-8, MMP-9) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP-1). This indicates a potential to degrade extracellular matrix components depending on the balance between free non-complexed inhibitors and active enzymes.

Naja Becher - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • trefoil factor peptide 3 is positively correlated with the viscoelastic properties of the Cervical Mucus Plug
    Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica, 2017
    Co-Authors: Sara Kjaer Bastholm, Naja Becher, Lea Kirstine Hansen, Mie Hesselund Samson, Peter Stubbe, Ioannis S Chronakis, Ebba Nexo, Niels Uldbjerg
    Abstract:

    Introduction The viscoelastic properties of the Cervical Mucus Plug are considered essential for the occlusion of the Cervical canal and thereby for protection against ascending infections during pregnancy. Factors controlling this property are virtually unknown. This study explores a possible role of trefoil factor peptides 1, 2 and 3 (TFF1–3); peptides believed to influence Mucus viscosity. Material and methods The study is based on spontaneously shed Cervical Mucus Plugs from 14 women in active labor. The viscoelastic properties; the elastic modulus (G’) and the viscous modulus (G”) were determined by an oscillatory rheometer. The concentrations of TFF1–3 were measured by an in-house enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Associations were analyzed by random-effects generalized least-squares regression analyses. Results Median (range) concentrations of TFF1, TFF2 and TFF3 were 3.1 (1.2–8.6), 1.1 (<0.006–3.7) and 1000 (170–5300) nmol/g Cervical Mucus Plug, respectively. The TFF3 concentration was associated with G’ (regression coefficient 11.7 Pa/Log nm; 95% CI 3.0–20.4, p = 0.009) and G” (regression coefficient 3.2 Pa/Log nm; 95% CI 1.5–5.0, p < 0.001). Conclusion We suggest that TFF3 plays a role in the viscoelastic properties of the Cervical Mucus Plug.

  • the viscoelastic properties of the Cervical Mucus Plug
    Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica, 2014
    Co-Authors: Sara Kjaer Bastholm, Naja Becher, Peter Stubbe, Ioannis S Chronakis, Niels Uldbjerg
    Abstract:

    Objective To characterize the viscoelastic properties of Cervical Mucus Plugs (CMPs) shed during labor at term. Design Experimental research. Setting Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark. Population/Sample Spontaneously shed CMPs from 18 healthy women in active labor. Methods Viscoelastic properties of CMPs were investigated with a dynamic oscillatory rheometer using frequency and stress sweep experiments within the linear viscoelastic region. Main outcome measures The rheological variables obtained were as follows: elastic modulus (G′), viscous modulus (G″) and tan delta (G″/G′). Random-effects regression was used for statistical analysis. Results All CMPs showed solid-like viscoelastic behavior. This was substantiated by the elastic modulus which was three to four times greater than the viscous modulus and by tan delta, which was <1 at all frequencies. Mean tan delta at 0.01 Hz was 0.38 (95% CI 0.34–0.43) and 0.27 (95% CI 0.23–0.32) at 1 Hz. The elastic modulus could be described by the relation G′(ω) = KωA [mean R2 0.95 (95% CI 0.93–0.98)]. Despite relatively large variation in the rheological properties within CMPs, rheological variables obtained from frequency sweeps differed significantly among CMPs (p < 0.05). Conclusion The CMPs are solid-like viscoelastic structures. These rheological characteristics are probably essential for the CMP's ability to form and sustain a Plug in the Cervical canal during pregnancy, thereby reducing the risk of ascending infections. The technique described here might be used for evaluation of an association between CMP viscoelasticity and preterm delivery.

  • the Cervical Mucus Plug inhibits but does not block the passage of ascending bacteria from the vagina during pregnancy
    Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica, 2014
    Co-Authors: Lea Kirstine Hansen, Naja Becher, Sara Kjaer Bastholm, Julie Glavind, Mette Ramsing, Chong J Kim, Roberto Romero, Jorgen Skov Jensen, Niels Uldbjerg
    Abstract:

    Objective To evaluate the microbial load and the inflammatory response in the distal and proximal parts of the Cervical Mucus Plug. Design Experimental research. Population Twenty women with a normal, singleton pregnancy. Sample Vaginal swabs and specimens from the distal and proximal parts of the Cervical Mucus Plug. Methods Immunohistochemistry, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, quantitative polymerase chain reaction and histology. Results The total bacterial load (16S rDNA) was significantly lower in the Cervical Mucus Plug compared with the vagina (p = 0.001). Among women harboring Ureaplasma parvum, the median genome equivalents/g were 1574 (interquartile range 2526) in the proximal part, 657 (interquartile range 1620) in the distal part and 60 240 (interquartile range 96 386) in the vagina. Histological examinations and quantitative polymerase chain reaction revealed considerable amounts of lactobacilli and inflammatory cells in both parts of the Cervical Mucus Plug. The matrix metalloproteinase-8 concentration was decreased in the proximal part of the Plug compared with the distal part (p = 0.08). Conclusion The Cervical Mucus Plug inhibits, but does not block, the passage of Ureaplasma parvum during its ascending route from the vagina through the Cervical canal.

  • matrix metalloproteinases in the Cervical Mucus Plug in relation to gestational age Plug compartment and preterm labor
    Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology, 2010
    Co-Authors: Naja Becher, Merete Hein, Carl Christian Danielsen, Niels Uldbjerg
    Abstract:

    Background High concentrations of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) have been identified in the Cervical Mucus Plug (CMP) at term of pregnancy. Their physiological and pathophysiological implications, however, remain to be elucidated, and CMPs from preterm labor have never been examined. This study was therefore conducted to describe the concentrations of MMP-2, TIMP-1, MMP-8 and MMP-9 in the CMP in relation to gestational age, IL-8 as an indicator of inflammation, compartment of the CMP, and preterm labor.

  • balance between matrix metalloproteinases mmp and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases timp in the Cervical Mucus Plug estimated by determination of free non complexed timp
    Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology, 2008
    Co-Authors: Naja Becher, Merete Hein, Niels Uldbjerg, Carl Christian Danielsen
    Abstract:

    Background The Cervical Mucus Plug (CMP) is a semi-solid structure with antibacterial properties positioned in the Cervical canal during pregnancy. The CMP contains high concentrations of matrix metalloproteinase 8 and 9 (MMP-8, MMP-9) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP-1). This indicates a potential to degrade extracellular matrix components depending on the balance between free non-complexed inhibitors and active enzymes.

Carl Christian Danielsen - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • matrix metalloproteinases in the Cervical Mucus Plug in relation to gestational age Plug compartment and preterm labor
    Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology, 2010
    Co-Authors: Naja Becher, Merete Hein, Carl Christian Danielsen, Niels Uldbjerg
    Abstract:

    Background High concentrations of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) have been identified in the Cervical Mucus Plug (CMP) at term of pregnancy. Their physiological and pathophysiological implications, however, remain to be elucidated, and CMPs from preterm labor have never been examined. This study was therefore conducted to describe the concentrations of MMP-2, TIMP-1, MMP-8 and MMP-9 in the CMP in relation to gestational age, IL-8 as an indicator of inflammation, compartment of the CMP, and preterm labor.

  • balance between matrix metalloproteinases mmp and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases timp in the Cervical Mucus Plug estimated by determination of free non complexed timp
    Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology, 2008
    Co-Authors: Naja Becher, Merete Hein, Niels Uldbjerg, Carl Christian Danielsen
    Abstract:

    Background The Cervical Mucus Plug (CMP) is a semi-solid structure with antibacterial properties positioned in the Cervical canal during pregnancy. The CMP contains high concentrations of matrix metalloproteinase 8 and 9 (MMP-8, MMP-9) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP-1). This indicates a potential to degrade extracellular matrix components depending on the balance between free non-complexed inhibitors and active enzymes.

  • matrix metalloproteinases and their inhibitors in the Cervical Mucus Plug at term of pregnancy
    American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2004
    Co-Authors: Naja Becher, Merete Hein, Carl Christian Danielsen, Niels Uldbjerg
    Abstract:

    Abstract Objective This study was undertaken to evaluate the presence of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their inhibitors in the Cervical Mucus Plug obtained during active labor at term. Study design Cervical Mucus Plugs from 17 healthy women in normal active labor were homogenized, extracted, and analyzed by 4 different assays. Results Gelatin zymography revealed large amounts of MMP-2 and MMP-9, and triple-helical collagen degradation demonstrated collagenase activity (MMP-8). Reverse zymography showed that tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP-1) and TIMP-2 are detectable in the Cervical Mucus Plug. Quantification by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay confirmed the presence of MMP-2, MMP-8, MMP-9, and TIMP-1. Conclusion Our results suggest that proteolytic or nonproteolytic effects of MMP and TIMP may play a part in the function of the Cervical Mucus Plug of pregnancy.

Merete Hein - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • matrix metalloproteinases in the Cervical Mucus Plug in relation to gestational age Plug compartment and preterm labor
    Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology, 2010
    Co-Authors: Naja Becher, Merete Hein, Carl Christian Danielsen, Niels Uldbjerg
    Abstract:

    Background High concentrations of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) have been identified in the Cervical Mucus Plug (CMP) at term of pregnancy. Their physiological and pathophysiological implications, however, remain to be elucidated, and CMPs from preterm labor have never been examined. This study was therefore conducted to describe the concentrations of MMP-2, TIMP-1, MMP-8 and MMP-9 in the CMP in relation to gestational age, IL-8 as an indicator of inflammation, compartment of the CMP, and preterm labor.

  • balance between matrix metalloproteinases mmp and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases timp in the Cervical Mucus Plug estimated by determination of free non complexed timp
    Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology, 2008
    Co-Authors: Naja Becher, Merete Hein, Niels Uldbjerg, Carl Christian Danielsen
    Abstract:

    Background The Cervical Mucus Plug (CMP) is a semi-solid structure with antibacterial properties positioned in the Cervical canal during pregnancy. The CMP contains high concentrations of matrix metalloproteinase 8 and 9 (MMP-8, MMP-9) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP-1). This indicates a potential to degrade extracellular matrix components depending on the balance between free non-complexed inhibitors and active enzymes.

  • matrix metalloproteinases and their inhibitors in the Cervical Mucus Plug at term of pregnancy
    American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, 2004
    Co-Authors: Naja Becher, Merete Hein, Carl Christian Danielsen, Niels Uldbjerg
    Abstract:

    Abstract Objective This study was undertaken to evaluate the presence of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and their inhibitors in the Cervical Mucus Plug obtained during active labor at term. Study design Cervical Mucus Plugs from 17 healthy women in normal active labor were homogenized, extracted, and analyzed by 4 different assays. Results Gelatin zymography revealed large amounts of MMP-2 and MMP-9, and triple-helical collagen degradation demonstrated collagenase activity (MMP-8). Reverse zymography showed that tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP-1) and TIMP-2 are detectable in the Cervical Mucus Plug. Quantification by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay confirmed the presence of MMP-2, MMP-8, MMP-9, and TIMP-1. Conclusion Our results suggest that proteolytic or nonproteolytic effects of MMP and TIMP may play a part in the function of the Cervical Mucus Plug of pregnancy.

Sara Kjaer Bastholm - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.

  • trefoil factor peptide 3 is positively correlated with the viscoelastic properties of the Cervical Mucus Plug
    Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica, 2017
    Co-Authors: Sara Kjaer Bastholm, Naja Becher, Lea Kirstine Hansen, Mie Hesselund Samson, Peter Stubbe, Ioannis S Chronakis, Ebba Nexo, Niels Uldbjerg
    Abstract:

    Introduction The viscoelastic properties of the Cervical Mucus Plug are considered essential for the occlusion of the Cervical canal and thereby for protection against ascending infections during pregnancy. Factors controlling this property are virtually unknown. This study explores a possible role of trefoil factor peptides 1, 2 and 3 (TFF1–3); peptides believed to influence Mucus viscosity. Material and methods The study is based on spontaneously shed Cervical Mucus Plugs from 14 women in active labor. The viscoelastic properties; the elastic modulus (G’) and the viscous modulus (G”) were determined by an oscillatory rheometer. The concentrations of TFF1–3 were measured by an in-house enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Associations were analyzed by random-effects generalized least-squares regression analyses. Results Median (range) concentrations of TFF1, TFF2 and TFF3 were 3.1 (1.2–8.6), 1.1 (<0.006–3.7) and 1000 (170–5300) nmol/g Cervical Mucus Plug, respectively. The TFF3 concentration was associated with G’ (regression coefficient 11.7 Pa/Log nm; 95% CI 3.0–20.4, p = 0.009) and G” (regression coefficient 3.2 Pa/Log nm; 95% CI 1.5–5.0, p < 0.001). Conclusion We suggest that TFF3 plays a role in the viscoelastic properties of the Cervical Mucus Plug.

  • the viscoelastic properties of the Cervical Mucus Plug
    Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica, 2014
    Co-Authors: Sara Kjaer Bastholm, Naja Becher, Peter Stubbe, Ioannis S Chronakis, Niels Uldbjerg
    Abstract:

    Objective To characterize the viscoelastic properties of Cervical Mucus Plugs (CMPs) shed during labor at term. Design Experimental research. Setting Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark. Population/Sample Spontaneously shed CMPs from 18 healthy women in active labor. Methods Viscoelastic properties of CMPs were investigated with a dynamic oscillatory rheometer using frequency and stress sweep experiments within the linear viscoelastic region. Main outcome measures The rheological variables obtained were as follows: elastic modulus (G′), viscous modulus (G″) and tan delta (G″/G′). Random-effects regression was used for statistical analysis. Results All CMPs showed solid-like viscoelastic behavior. This was substantiated by the elastic modulus which was three to four times greater than the viscous modulus and by tan delta, which was <1 at all frequencies. Mean tan delta at 0.01 Hz was 0.38 (95% CI 0.34–0.43) and 0.27 (95% CI 0.23–0.32) at 1 Hz. The elastic modulus could be described by the relation G′(ω) = KωA [mean R2 0.95 (95% CI 0.93–0.98)]. Despite relatively large variation in the rheological properties within CMPs, rheological variables obtained from frequency sweeps differed significantly among CMPs (p < 0.05). Conclusion The CMPs are solid-like viscoelastic structures. These rheological characteristics are probably essential for the CMP's ability to form and sustain a Plug in the Cervical canal during pregnancy, thereby reducing the risk of ascending infections. The technique described here might be used for evaluation of an association between CMP viscoelasticity and preterm delivery.

  • the Cervical Mucus Plug inhibits but does not block the passage of ascending bacteria from the vagina during pregnancy
    Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica, 2014
    Co-Authors: Lea Kirstine Hansen, Naja Becher, Sara Kjaer Bastholm, Julie Glavind, Mette Ramsing, Chong J Kim, Roberto Romero, Jorgen Skov Jensen, Niels Uldbjerg
    Abstract:

    Objective To evaluate the microbial load and the inflammatory response in the distal and proximal parts of the Cervical Mucus Plug. Design Experimental research. Population Twenty women with a normal, singleton pregnancy. Sample Vaginal swabs and specimens from the distal and proximal parts of the Cervical Mucus Plug. Methods Immunohistochemistry, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, quantitative polymerase chain reaction and histology. Results The total bacterial load (16S rDNA) was significantly lower in the Cervical Mucus Plug compared with the vagina (p = 0.001). Among women harboring Ureaplasma parvum, the median genome equivalents/g were 1574 (interquartile range 2526) in the proximal part, 657 (interquartile range 1620) in the distal part and 60 240 (interquartile range 96 386) in the vagina. Histological examinations and quantitative polymerase chain reaction revealed considerable amounts of lactobacilli and inflammatory cells in both parts of the Cervical Mucus Plug. The matrix metalloproteinase-8 concentration was decreased in the proximal part of the Plug compared with the distal part (p = 0.08). Conclusion The Cervical Mucus Plug inhibits, but does not block, the passage of Ureaplasma parvum during its ascending route from the vagina through the Cervical canal.