The differential distribution of vasoactive intestinal polypeptide in the normal human female genital tract |
| |
| Authors: | E. M. Lynch J. Wharton M. G. Bryant S. R. Bloom J. M. Polak MD MRCPath M. G. Elder |
| |
| Affiliation: | (1) Department of Medicine, Royal Postgraduate Medical School, London, UK;(2) Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Royal Postgraduate Medical School, London, UK;(3) Histochemistry, Royal Postgraduate Medical School, Hammersmith Hospital, Du Cane Road, W12 OHS London, UK |
| |
| Abstract: | Summary VIP-like immunoreactive material is present in the female reproductive tract, with a distinct pattern of distribution. The highest concentrations of extractable material and immunoreactive nerve fibres were found in the cervix and vagina. In the cervix these fibres were seen below the surface epithelium and around cervical glands as well as in association with blood vessels and smooth muscle bundles. In the vagina the nerve fibres were most abundant in the superficial regions of the lamina propria. Scattered fibres were also present in the rest of the uterus and in the fallopian tubes. Chromatographic evidence indicates that this VIP-like material is of a similar molecular size to that extracted from other organs. Possible roles for VIP in the regulation of myometrial activity and of cervical and vaginal dilation and secretion are proposed. |
| |
| Keywords: | |
| 本文献已被 SpringerLink 等数据库收录！ |
|
