Uterine contractions in rodent models and humans. (7th January 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Malik, Manasi; Roh, Michelle; England, Sarah K.
• Is Part Of: Acta physiologica. Volume 231:Number 4(2021)
• Page Start: n/a
• Page End: n/a
• Publication Date: 2021-01-07
• Subjects: animal models -- contraction -- myometrium -- parturition -- pregnancy -- species differences -- uterus; Physiology -- Periodicals; Physiology -- Research -- Periodicals; 612
• DOI: 10.1111/apha.13607
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1748-1708

Abstract

Abstract: Aberrant uterine contractions can lead to preterm birth and other labour complications and are a significant cause of maternal morbidity and mortality. To investigate the mechanisms underlying dysfunctional uterine contractions, researchers have used experimentally tractable small animal models. However, biological differences between humans and rodents change how researchers select their animal model and interpret their results. Here, we provide a general review of studies of uterine excitation and contractions in mice, rats, guinea pigs, and humans, in an effort to introduce new researchers to the field and help in the design and interpretation of experiments in rodent models.