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Medical Sciences (Basel, Switzerland) Apr 2022Skin wound repair has been the central focus of clinicians and scientists for almost a century. Insights into acute and chronic wound healing as well as scarring have... (Review)
Review
Skin wound repair has been the central focus of clinicians and scientists for almost a century. Insights into acute and chronic wound healing as well as scarring have influenced and ameliorated wound treatment. Our knowledge of normal skin notwithstanding, little is known of acute and chronic wound repair of genital skin. In contrast to extra-genital skin, hypertrophic scarring is uncommon in genital tissue. Chronic wound healing disorders of the genitals are mostly confined to mucosal tissue diseases. This article will provide insights into the differences between extra-genital and genital skin with regard to anatomy, physiology and aberrant wound repair. In light of fundamental differences between genital and normal skin, it is recommended that reconstructive and esthetic surgery should exclusively be performed by specialists with profound expertise in genital wound repair.
Topics: Cicatrix, Hypertrophic; Genitalia; Humans; Skin; Urogenital System
PubMed: 35466231
DOI: 10.3390/medsci10020023 -
Cell Feb 2024The female reproductive tract (FRT) undergoes extensive remodeling during reproductive cycling. This recurrent remodeling and how it shapes organ-specific aging remains...
The female reproductive tract (FRT) undergoes extensive remodeling during reproductive cycling. This recurrent remodeling and how it shapes organ-specific aging remains poorly explored. Using single-cell and spatial transcriptomics, we systematically characterized morphological and gene expression changes occurring in ovary, oviduct, uterus, cervix, and vagina at each phase of the mouse estrous cycle, during decidualization, and into aging. These analyses reveal that fibroblasts play central-and highly organ-specific-roles in FRT remodeling by orchestrating extracellular matrix (ECM) reorganization and inflammation. Our results suggest a model wherein recurrent FRT remodeling over reproductive lifespan drives the gradual, age-related development of fibrosis and chronic inflammation. This hypothesis was directly tested using chemical ablation of cycling, which reduced fibrotic accumulation during aging. Our atlas provides extensive detail into how estrus, pregnancy, and aging shape the organs of the female reproductive tract and reveals the unexpected cost of the recurrent remodeling required for reproduction.
Topics: Animals; Female; Mice; Pregnancy; Aging; Genitalia, Female; Inflammation; Uterus; Vagina; Single-Cell Analysis
PubMed: 38325365
DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2024.01.021 -
Current Biology : CB Oct 2022While most birds do not have external genitalia, in a small number of species the males have penises, which can be either intromittent or non-intromittent. Brennan...
While most birds do not have external genitalia, in a small number of species the males have penises, which can be either intromittent or non-intromittent. Brennan provides an overview of bird genitalia, including speculation about the evolutionary forces involved.
Topics: Male; Animals; Genitalia; Biological Evolution; Penis; Birds
PubMed: 36283360
DOI: 10.1016/j.cub.2022.09.015 -
Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy =... Apr 2022Exosomes are nano-sized structures that are found in semen, epididymal -fluid, endometrium, as well as in follicular fluid. They are responsible for transporting... (Review)
Review
Exosomes are nano-sized structures that are found in semen, epididymal -fluid, endometrium, as well as in follicular fluid. They are responsible for transporting bioactive cargo- proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. Exosomes have been proven to influence processes in both female and male reproductive systems, including gametogenesis, acrosomal reaction, sperm capacitation, and embryo implantation in the endometrium. Exosomes are made of the same particles as the cells they come from and are secreted by normal and pathological cells. Therefore, exosomes can reflect the physiological state of cells. Moreover, due to the transportation of biomolecules, they participate in intercellular communication and can be used as biomarkers of many diseases, including ovarian, endometrial and prostate cancer. Identification of exosomes as biomarkers could contribute to a better understanding of genital dysfunction and fertility disorders.
Topics: Aging; Biomarkers; Drug Carriers; Embryo Implantation; Exosomes; Female; Genital Diseases, Female; Genital Diseases, Male; Genitalia, Female; Genitalia, Male; Humans; Inflammation; Male; Reproduction; Signal Transduction
PubMed: 35220028
DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.112752 -
Nature Biomedical Engineering Apr 2020Engineered male and female biomimetic reproductive tissues are being developed as autonomous in vitro units or as integrated multi-organ in vitro systems to support germ... (Review)
Review
Engineered male and female biomimetic reproductive tissues are being developed as autonomous in vitro units or as integrated multi-organ in vitro systems to support germ cell and embryo function, and to display characteristic endocrine phenotypic patterns, such as the 28-day human ovulatory cycle. In this Review, we summarize how engineered reproductive tissues facilitate research in reproductive biology, and overview strategies for making engineered reproductive tissues that might eventually allow the restoration of reproductive capacity in patients.
Topics: Biocompatible Materials; Bioprinting; Cell Encapsulation; Female; Genitalia, Female; Genitalia, Male; Germ Cells; Humans; Hydrogels; Male; Microfluidics; Printing, Three-Dimensional; Reproduction; Testis; Tissue Engineering; Tissue Scaffolds; Tissue Transplantation
PubMed: 32251392
DOI: 10.1038/s41551-020-0525-x -
BMJ (Clinical Research Ed.)To find out whether taking images of the male and female genitals during coitus is feasible and to find out whether former and current ideas about the anatomy during...
OBJECTIVE
To find out whether taking images of the male and female genitals during coitus is feasible and to find out whether former and current ideas about the anatomy during sexual intercourse and during female sexual arousal are based on assumptions or on facts.
DESIGN
Observational study.
SETTING
University hospital in the Netherlands.
METHODS
Magnetic resonance imaging was used to study the female sexual response and the male and female genitals during coitus. Thirteen experiments were performed with eight couples and three single women.
RESULTS
The images obtained showed that during intercourse in the "missionary position" the penis has the shape of a boomerang and 1/3 of its length consists of the root of the penis. During female sexual arousal without intercourse the uterus was raised and the anterior vaginal wall lengthened. The size of the uterus did not increase during sexual arousal.
CONCLUSION
Taking magnetic resonance images of the male and female genitals during coitus is feasible and contributes to understanding of anatomy.
Topics: Adult; Arousal; Coitus; Feasibility Studies; Female; Genitalia, Female; Genitalia, Male; Humans; Magnetic Resonance Imaging; Male; Penis; Uterus
PubMed: 10600954
DOI: 10.1136/bmj.319.7225.1596 -
Andrologia Feb 2021COVID-19 pandemic leads to health challenges globally, and its diverse aspects need to be uncovered. Multi-organ injuries have been reported by describing potential... (Review)
Review
COVID-19 pandemic leads to health challenges globally, and its diverse aspects need to be uncovered. Multi-organ injuries have been reported by describing potential SARS-CoV-2 entrance routes: ACE2 and TMPRSS2. Since these cell surface receptors' expression has been disclosed within the male reproductive system, its susceptibility to being infected by SARS-CoV-2 has been summarised through this literature review. Expression of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 at RNA or protein level has been reported across various investigations indicates that the male genitalia potentially is vulnerable to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Presence of SARS-CoV-2 within semen samples and following direct viral damage, secondary inflammatory response causing orchitis or testicular discomfort and finally the amount of viral load leading testicular damage and immune response activation are among probable underlying mechanisms. Therefore, genital examination and laboratory tests should be considered to address the male reproductive tract complications and fertility issues.
Topics: Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2; COVID-19; Genitalia, Male; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Orchitis; RNA, Messenger; SARS-CoV-2; Semen; Serine Endopeptidases; Spike Glycoprotein, Coronavirus; Testis
PubMed: 33236375
DOI: 10.1111/and.13914 -
Basic & Clinical Pharmacology &... Oct 2016Ejaculation is the final stage of coitus in mammalian male and is mandatory for natural procreation. Two synchronized phases, emission and expulsion, form the... (Review)
Review
Ejaculation is the final stage of coitus in mammalian male and is mandatory for natural procreation. Two synchronized phases, emission and expulsion, form the ejaculatory response and involve specific organs and anatomical structures. The peripheral events leading to ejaculation are commanded by autonomic (sympathetic and parasympathetic) and somatic divisions of the nervous system. The autonomic and somatic motor efferents originate in spinal nuclei located in thoracolumbar and lumbosacral segments. Co-ordinated activation of autonomic and somatic spinal nuclei is orchestrated by a group of lumbar spinal interneurons defined as the spinal generator of ejaculation. The generator of ejaculation together with the autonomic and somatic spinal nuclei constitutes a spinal network that is under the strong influence of stimulating or inhibiting genital sensory and supraspinal inputs. A brain circuitry dedicated to ejaculation has been delineated that is part of a more global network controlling other aspects of the sexual response. This circuitry includes discrete neuronal populations distributed in all divisions of the brain. The corollary to the expanded CNS network is the variety of neurotransmitter systems participating in the ejaculatory process. Among them, serotonin neurotransmission plays a key role and its targeting led to the development of the first registered pharmacological treatment of premature ejaculation in human beings. Critical gaps remain in the understanding of neurophysiopharmacology of ejaculation and management of ejaculatory disorders in human beings needs improvement. Because the ejaculatory response in laboratory animals and in human beings shares many similarities, the use of animal models will certainly provide further advances in the field.
Topics: Animals; Cerebral Cortex; Ejaculation; Genitalia, Male; Humans; Male; Models, Biological; Spinal Cord
PubMed: 26709195
DOI: 10.1111/bcpt.12546 -
Journal of Medical Virology Mar 2021The outbreak of novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has become a major pandemic threat worldwide. According to the existing clinical data, this virus not only... (Review)
Review
The outbreak of novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has become a major pandemic threat worldwide. According to the existing clinical data, this virus not only causes respiratory diseases and affects the lungs but also induces histopathological or functional changes in various organs like the testis and also the male genital tract. The renin-angiotensin system (RAS), also ACE 2 and TMPRSS2 play an important role in the cellular entry for SARS-CoV-2. Because the male genital system presents high ACE 2 expression, the importance of this pathway increases in COVID-19 cases. As the COVID-19 pandemic has affected the male genital system in direct or indirect ways and showed a negative impact on male reproduction, this paper focuses on the possible mechanisms underlying the damage caused by COVID-19 to the testis and also other components of the male genital tract.
Topics: Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme 2; Brain; COVID-19; Epididymis; Fertility; Genitalia, Male; Humans; Infertility, Male; Male; Receptors, Coronavirus; SARS-CoV-2; Testis
PubMed: 33200417
DOI: 10.1002/jmv.26667 -
Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology... Jun 2020Recent developments in organoid technology are revolutionizing our knowledge about the biology, physiology, and function of various organs. Female reproductive biology... (Review)
Review
Recent developments in organoid technology are revolutionizing our knowledge about the biology, physiology, and function of various organs. Female reproductive biology and medicine also benefit from this technology. Organoids recapitulate features of different reproductive organs including the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries, as well as trophoblasts. The genetic stability of organoids and long-lasting commitment to their tissue of origin during long-term culture makes them attractive substitutes for animal and in vitro models. Despite current limitations, organoids offer a promising platform to address fundamental questions regarding the reproductive system's physiology and pathology. They provide a human source to harness stem cells for regenerative medicine, heal damaged epithelia in specific diseases, and study biological processes in healthy and pathological conditions. The combination of male and female reproductive organoids with other technologies, such as microfluidics technology, would enable scientists to create a multi-organoid-on-a-chip platform for the next step to human-on-a-chip platforms for clinical applications, drug discovery, and toxicology studies. The present review discusses recent advances in producing organoid models of reproductive organs and highlights their applications, as well as technical challenges and future directions.
Topics: Biomedical Research; Drug Evaluation, Preclinical; Endometrium; Fallopian Tubes; Female; Genital Diseases, Female; Genital Neoplasms, Female; Humans; Lab-On-A-Chip Devices; Organoids; Ovary; Reproductive Medicine; Trophoblasts
PubMed: 32552764
DOI: 10.1186/s12958-020-00621-z