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C R Wira - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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The role of sex hormones in immune protection of the Female Reproductive Tract
Nature Reviews Immunology, 2015Co-Authors: C R Wira, Marta Rodriguez-garcia, Mickey V. PatelAbstract:Interactions between the innate and adaptive immune systems and the endocrine system in the Female Reproductive Tract (FRT) are essential for successful reproduction and for maintaining immune protection against sexually transmitted infections. Epithelial cells, fibroblasts and immune cells throughout the FRT contribute to immune protection and create a mucosal environment that supports reproduction. Immune cell number, tissue distribution, phenotype and function throughout the menstrual cycle are site-specific in the lower and upper FRT and are differentially regulated by sex hormones. Hormonal regulation of immune cells in the endometrium is required to prevent sperm rejection and to prepare the endometrial tissue for implantation. Epithelial cells, fibroblasts and immune cells at each site are hormonally regulated and influence one another through the secretion of growth factors, cytokines, chemokines and antimicrobial factors. Immune protection that is regulated by oestradiol and progesterone is characterized by phenotypic changes to cells, including alterations to the secretion of cytokines, chemokines and antimicrobial factors, receptor expression, barrier function, cellular responses to pathogens, and the distribution and function of immune cells. Immune regulation to achieve optimal conditions for fertilization, implantation and pregnancy creates a 'window of vulnerability' during the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle, such that HIV and possibly other sexually transmitted pathogens are able to breach and infect the FRT. Within the human Female Reproductive Tract (FRT), the challenge of protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is coupled with the need to enable successful reproduction. Oestradiol and progesterone, which are secreted during the menstrual cycle, affect epithelial cells, fibroblasts and immune cells in the FRT to modify their functions and hence the individual's susceptibility to STIs in ways that are unique to specific sites in the FRT. The innate and adaptive immune systems are under hormonal control, and immune protection in the FRT varies with the phase of the menstrual cycle. Immune protection is dampened during the secretory phase of the cycle to optimize conditions for fertilization and pregnancy, which creates a 'window of vulnerability' during which potential pathogens can enter and infect the FRT. Regulation of the immune response in the Female Reproductive Tract by sex hormones enables optimal conditions for fertilization and pregnancy according to the stage of the menstrual cycle, but can simultaneously affect susceptibility to pathogen infection.
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Mucosal Immunity in the Human Female Reproductive Tract
Mucosal Immunology, 2015Co-Authors: Marta Rodriguez Garcia, Mickey V. Patel, Zheng Shen, John V. Fahey, Nabanita Biswas, Jiri Mestecky, C R WiraAbstract:AbsTract The mucosal immune system in the human Female Reproductive Tract is unique and distinct from all other mucosal surfaces. Consisting of the innate and adaptive immune systems, immune protection has evolved to meet the constraints of protecting against potential viral, bacterial and fungal pathogens while ensuring Reproductive success of an allogeneic conceptus. In this review, we focus on our current understanding of role of sex hormones in regulating mucosal immunity throughout the Female Reproductive Tract. Consisting of several compartments including the Fallopian tubes, uterus, endocervix, ectocervix, and vagina, each site is precisely and independently regulated by the ovarian production of estradiol and progesterone. These hormones act both directly and indirectly through cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors, to regulate immune cell phenotype and function as well as immune protection in Reproductive Tract secretions. Understanding the immune system in the Female Reproductive Tract is essential for the development of appropriate immunoprophylaxis to regulate fertility, deal with those challenges that prevent successful pregnancies, and control sexually transmitted diseases that compromise Reproductive health and the lives of women and children worldwide.
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innate and adaptive immunity at mucosal surfaces of the Female Reproductive Tract stratification and integration of immune protection against the transmission of sexually transmitted infections
Journal of Reproductive Immunology, 2011Co-Authors: Danica K Hickey, John V. Fahey, Mickey V. Patel, C R WiraAbstract:This review examines the multiple levels of pre-existing immunity in the upper and lower Female Reproductive Tract. In addition, we highlight the need for further research of innate and adaptive immune protection of mucosal surfaces in the Female Reproductive Tract. Innate mechanisms include the mucus lining, a tight epithelial barrier and the secretion of antimicrobial peptides and cytokines by epithelial and innate immune cells. Stimulation of the innate immune system also serves to bridge the adaptive arm resulting in the generation of pathogen-specific humoral and cell-mediated immunity. Less understood are the multiple components that act in a coordinated way to provide a network of ongoing protection. Innate and adaptive immunity in the human Female Reproductive Tract are influenced by the stage of menstrual cycle and are directly regulated by the sex steroid hormones, progesterone and estradiol. Furthermore, the effect of hormones on immunity is mediated both directly on immune and epithelial cells and indirectly by stimulating growth factor secretion from stromal cells. The goal of this review is to focus on the diverse aspects of the innate and adaptive immune systems that contribute to a unique network of protection throughout the Female Reproductive Tract.
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ccl20 mip3alpha is a novel anti hiv 1 molecule of the human Female Reproductive Tract
American Journal of Reproductive Immunology, 2009Co-Authors: Mimi Ghosh, Zheng Shen, John V. Fahey, Todd M. Schaefer, Phalguni Gupta, C R WiraAbstract:Problem CCL20/MIP3α is a chemokine for immature dendritic cells as well as an antibacterial against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. The role of CCL20/MIP3α as an antiviral is unknown. In this study, we have examined the production of CCL20/MIP3α by epithelial cells from the upper Female Reproductive Tract as well as its activity as an antiviral molecule.
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NK Cell Function in the Human Female Reproductive Tract
American journal of reproductive immunology (New York N.Y. : 1989), 2007Co-Authors: Charles L. Sentman, C R Wira, Mikael ErikssonAbstract:Problem Uterine NK cells have a unique phenotype compared with blood NK cell subsets, yet little is known about how NK cells function as a part of the innate immune cell network in the Female Reproductive Tract. Method of Study The expression of key receptors and function of uterine NK cells in response to cytokines, sex hormones, and pathogen associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) was analyzed. This article summarizes recent findings on the biology and function of NK cells in the Female Reproductive Tract. Results Uterine NK cells express Toll-like receptors and respond to cytokines and PAMPs under specific conditions. Evidence indicates that NK cells play an important role in the reorganization of blood vessels during pregnancy. Conclusions Human uterine NK cells are a major population of leukocytes in the endometrium and play an important role as a component of host defense and in successful reproduction.
Alireza Fazeli - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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sperm storage in the Female Reproductive Tract
Annual Review of Animal Biosciences, 2016Co-Authors: William V Holt, Alireza FazeliAbstract:The capacity for sperm storage within the Female Reproductive Tract occurs widely across all groups of vertebrate species and is exceptionally well developed in some reptiles (maximum duration seven years) and fishes (maximum duration >1 year). Although there are many reports on both the occurrence of Female sperm storage in diverse species and its adaptive benefits, few studies have been directed toward explaining the mechanisms involved. In this article we review recent findings in birds and mammals in an effort to develop hypotheses that could be translated into research applications in animal breeding technologies. There are pockets of evidence to suggest that the local epithelial cells, sometimes arranged as sperm storage tubules, can respond to spermatozoa by producing heat shock proteins as well as providing an environment rich in antioxidants. Moreover, the local immune system seems to tolerate the arrival of spermatozoa, while retaining the ability to combat the arrival of infectious microorganisms.
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Toll-like receptors in Female Reproductive Tract and their menstrual cycle dependent expression
Journal of reproductive immunology, 2007Co-Authors: Reza Aflatoonian, Alireza FazeliAbstract:Rapid innate immune defences against infection usually involve the recognition of invading pathogens by specific pattern recognition receptors recently attributed to the family of Toll-like receptors (TLR). TLRs constitute a major part of innate immune system, and have been characterised in different tissues and organs. Reports from our laboratory and others have demonstrated the existence of TLRs in the Female Reproductive Tract, yet TLRs have not been explored completely in this system. There is little known about variation in TLR expression during the menstrual cycle and the effects that sex hormones may have on their expression and function. Here, we review recent information regarding the existence of TLRs in the Female Reproductive Tract, their function in the maintenance of innate immune system in this Tract and their potential role in pregnancy.
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Characterization of Toll-like receptors in the Female Reproductive Tract in humans
Human reproduction (Oxford England), 2005Co-Authors: Alireza Fazeli, C. Bruce, Dilly O C AnumbaAbstract:BACKGROUND: Rapid innate immune defences against infection involve the recognition of invading pathogens by specific pattern recognition receptors recently attributed to the family of Toll-like receptors (TLR). Little is known about the in vivo protein expression or distribution of TLR in the Female Reproductive Tract in humans. It is likely that TLR distribution in the Female Reproductive Tract reflects the immunological tolerance to the commensal organisms in lower parts of the Tract (vagina, ectocervix and, partially, endocervix) and the intolerance to commensal microbial flora in the upper Tract (the uterus and uterine tubes). METHODS: Using immunohistochemistry techniques, distribution of TLR1 ‐6 was studied in surgical sections from the vagina, ecto- and endocervix, endometrium and uterine tubes, obtained from patients undergoing abdominal hysterectomy for benign gynaecological conditions. RESULTS: TLR1, 2, 3, 5 and 6 were present in the epithelia of different regions of Female Reproductive Tract. However, TLR4 was only present in the endocervix, endometrium and uterine tubes and absent in vagina and ectocervix. In addition, a secretory form of TLR4 seems to be produced by the endocervical glands. CONCLUSION: TLR4 may play an important role in modulation of immunological tolerance in the lower parts of the Female Reproductive Tract, and in host defence against ascending infection.
David Sassoon - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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differential expression patterns of wnt genes in the murine Female Reproductive Tract during development and the estrous cycle
Mechanisms of Development, 1998Co-Authors: Cary Miller, Anna Pavlova, David SassoonAbstract:AbsTract The murine Female Reproductive Tract differentiates during postnatal development. This process of cytodifferentiation and morphogenesis is dependent upon specific mesenchymal–epithelial interactions as well as circulating steroid hormones (Cunha, G.R., 1976. Int. Rev. Cytol. 47, 137–194; Pavlova, A. et al., 1994. Development 120, 335–346). Members of the Wnt family of signaling molecules have been recently identified in this system (Pavlova, A. et al., 1994. Development 120, 335–346; Bui, T.D. et al., 1997. Br. J. Cancer 75, 1131–1136; Miller, C., Sassoon, D.A., 1998. Development 125, 3201–3211). We describe the expression patterns of Wnt genes in the developing and adult Female Reproductive Tract. Additionally, we note that changes in the levels of expression occur during the estrous cycle. Wnt gene expression patterns are regulated by the presence of epithelium in tissue graft experiments, suggesting that Wnt genes may indeed play roles in the mesenchymal–epithelial interactions critical for Female Reproductive Tract development and function.
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Wnt-7a maintains appropriate uterine patterning during the development of the mouse Female Reproductive Tract
Development (Cambridge England), 1998Co-Authors: Cary Miller, David SassoonAbstract:The murine Female Reproductive Tract differentiates along the anteroposterior axis during postnatal development. This process is marked by the emergence of distinct cell types in the oviduct, uterus, cervix and vagina and is dependent upon specific mesenchymal-epithelial interactions as demonstrated by earlier heterografting experiments. Members of the Wnt family of signaling molecules have been recently identified in this system and an early functional role in Reproductive Tract development has been demonstrated. Mice were generated using ES-mediated homologous recombination for the Wnt-7a gene (Parr, B. A. and McMahon, A. P. (1995) Nature 374, 350-353). Since Wnt-7a is expressed in the Female Reproductive Tract, we examined the developmental consequences of lack of Wnt-7a in the Female Reproductive Tract. We observe that the oviduct lacks a clear demarcation from the anterior uterus, and acquires several cellular and molecular characteristics of the uterine horn. The uterus acquires cellular and molecular characteristics that represent an intermediate state between normal uterus and vagina. Normal vaginas have stratified epithelium and normal uteri have simple columnar epithelium, however, mutant uteri have stratified epithelium. Additionally, Wnt-7a mutant uteri do not form glands. The changes observed in the oviduct and uterus are accompanied by a postnatal loss of hoxa-10 and hoxa-11 expression, revealing that Wnt-7a is not required for early hoxa gene expression, but is required for maintenance of expression. These clustered hox genes have been shown to play a role in anteroposterior patterning in the Female Reproductive Tract. In addition to this global posterior shift in the Female Reproductive Tract, we note that the uterine smooth muscle is disorganized, indicating development along the radial axis is affected. Changes in the boundaries and levels of other Wnt genes are detectable at birth, prior to changes in morphologies. These results suggest that a mechanism whereby Wnt-7a signaling from the epithelium maintains the molecular and morphological boundaries of distinct cellular populations along the anteroposterior and radial axes of the Female Reproductive Tract.
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Differential expression patterns of Wnt genes in the murine Female Reproductive Tract during development and the estrous cycle.
Mechanisms of development, 1998Co-Authors: Cary Miller, Anna Pavlova, David SassoonAbstract:The murine Female Reproductive Tract differentiates during postnatal development. This process of cytodifferentiation and morphogenesis is dependent upon specific mesenchymal-epithelial interactions as well as circulating steroid hormones (Cunha, G.R., 1976. Int. Rev. Cytol. 47, 137-194; Pavlova, A. et al., 1994. Development 120, 335-346). Members of the Wnt family of signaling molecules have been recently identified in this system (Pavlova, A. et al., 1994. Development 120, 335-346; Bui, T.D. et al., 1997. Br. J. Cancer 75, 1131-1136; Miller, C., Sassoon, D.A., 1998. Development, in press). We describe the expression patterns of Wnt genes in the developing and adult Female Reproductive Tract. Additionally, we note that changes in the levels of expression occur during the estrous cycle. Wnt gene expression patterns are regulated by the presence of epithelium in tissue graft experiments, suggesting that Wnt genes may indeed play roles in the mesenchymal-epithelial interactions critical for Female Reproductive Tract development and function.
Mickey V. Patel - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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The role of sex hormones in immune protection of the Female Reproductive Tract
Nature Reviews Immunology, 2015Co-Authors: C R Wira, Marta Rodriguez-garcia, Mickey V. PatelAbstract:Interactions between the innate and adaptive immune systems and the endocrine system in the Female Reproductive Tract (FRT) are essential for successful reproduction and for maintaining immune protection against sexually transmitted infections. Epithelial cells, fibroblasts and immune cells throughout the FRT contribute to immune protection and create a mucosal environment that supports reproduction. Immune cell number, tissue distribution, phenotype and function throughout the menstrual cycle are site-specific in the lower and upper FRT and are differentially regulated by sex hormones. Hormonal regulation of immune cells in the endometrium is required to prevent sperm rejection and to prepare the endometrial tissue for implantation. Epithelial cells, fibroblasts and immune cells at each site are hormonally regulated and influence one another through the secretion of growth factors, cytokines, chemokines and antimicrobial factors. Immune protection that is regulated by oestradiol and progesterone is characterized by phenotypic changes to cells, including alterations to the secretion of cytokines, chemokines and antimicrobial factors, receptor expression, barrier function, cellular responses to pathogens, and the distribution and function of immune cells. Immune regulation to achieve optimal conditions for fertilization, implantation and pregnancy creates a 'window of vulnerability' during the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle, such that HIV and possibly other sexually transmitted pathogens are able to breach and infect the FRT. Within the human Female Reproductive Tract (FRT), the challenge of protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is coupled with the need to enable successful reproduction. Oestradiol and progesterone, which are secreted during the menstrual cycle, affect epithelial cells, fibroblasts and immune cells in the FRT to modify their functions and hence the individual's susceptibility to STIs in ways that are unique to specific sites in the FRT. The innate and adaptive immune systems are under hormonal control, and immune protection in the FRT varies with the phase of the menstrual cycle. Immune protection is dampened during the secretory phase of the cycle to optimize conditions for fertilization and pregnancy, which creates a 'window of vulnerability' during which potential pathogens can enter and infect the FRT. Regulation of the immune response in the Female Reproductive Tract by sex hormones enables optimal conditions for fertilization and pregnancy according to the stage of the menstrual cycle, but can simultaneously affect susceptibility to pathogen infection.
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Mucosal Immunity in the Human Female Reproductive Tract
Mucosal Immunology, 2015Co-Authors: Marta Rodriguez Garcia, Mickey V. Patel, Zheng Shen, John V. Fahey, Nabanita Biswas, Jiri Mestecky, C R WiraAbstract:AbsTract The mucosal immune system in the human Female Reproductive Tract is unique and distinct from all other mucosal surfaces. Consisting of the innate and adaptive immune systems, immune protection has evolved to meet the constraints of protecting against potential viral, bacterial and fungal pathogens while ensuring Reproductive success of an allogeneic conceptus. In this review, we focus on our current understanding of role of sex hormones in regulating mucosal immunity throughout the Female Reproductive Tract. Consisting of several compartments including the Fallopian tubes, uterus, endocervix, ectocervix, and vagina, each site is precisely and independently regulated by the ovarian production of estradiol and progesterone. These hormones act both directly and indirectly through cytokines, chemokines, and growth factors, to regulate immune cell phenotype and function as well as immune protection in Reproductive Tract secretions. Understanding the immune system in the Female Reproductive Tract is essential for the development of appropriate immunoprophylaxis to regulate fertility, deal with those challenges that prevent successful pregnancies, and control sexually transmitted diseases that compromise Reproductive health and the lives of women and children worldwide.
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innate and adaptive immunity at mucosal surfaces of the Female Reproductive Tract stratification and integration of immune protection against the transmission of sexually transmitted infections
Journal of Reproductive Immunology, 2011Co-Authors: Danica K Hickey, John V. Fahey, Mickey V. Patel, C R WiraAbstract:This review examines the multiple levels of pre-existing immunity in the upper and lower Female Reproductive Tract. In addition, we highlight the need for further research of innate and adaptive immune protection of mucosal surfaces in the Female Reproductive Tract. Innate mechanisms include the mucus lining, a tight epithelial barrier and the secretion of antimicrobial peptides and cytokines by epithelial and innate immune cells. Stimulation of the innate immune system also serves to bridge the adaptive arm resulting in the generation of pathogen-specific humoral and cell-mediated immunity. Less understood are the multiple components that act in a coordinated way to provide a network of ongoing protection. Innate and adaptive immunity in the human Female Reproductive Tract are influenced by the stage of menstrual cycle and are directly regulated by the sex steroid hormones, progesterone and estradiol. Furthermore, the effect of hormones on immunity is mediated both directly on immune and epithelial cells and indirectly by stimulating growth factor secretion from stromal cells. The goal of this review is to focus on the diverse aspects of the innate and adaptive immune systems that contribute to a unique network of protection throughout the Female Reproductive Tract.
Mariana F Wolfner - One of the best experts on this subject based on the ideXlab platform.
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seminal proteins but not sperm induce morphological changes in the drosophila melanogaster Female Reproductive Tract during sperm storage
Journal of Insect Physiology, 2007Co-Authors: Erika M Adams, Mariana F WolfnerAbstract:In most insects, sperm transferred by the male to the Female during mating are stored within the Female Reproductive Tract for subsequent use in fertilization. In Drosophila melanogaster, male accessory gland proteins (Acps) within the seminal fluid are required for efficient accumulation of sperm in the Female's sperm storage organs. To determine the events within the Female Reproductive Tract that occur during sperm storage, and the role that Acps and sperm play in these events, we identified morphological changes that take place during sperm storage in Females mated to wild-type, Acp-deficient or sperm-deficient males. A reproducible set of morphological changes occurs in a wild-type mating. These were categorized into 10 stereotypic stages. Sperm are not needed for progression through these stages in Females, but receipt of Acps is essential for progression beyond the first few stages of morphological change. Furthermore, Females that received small quantities of Acps reached slightly later stages than Females that received no Acps. Our results suggest that timely morphological changes in the Female Reproductive Tract, possibly muscular in nature, may be needed for successful sperm storage, and that Acps from the male are needed in order for these changes to occur.
