E-Posters-The Effect of Fibulin-5 Haploinsufficiency on Vaginal Mechanical Behavior Using Extension-Inflation Testing

The Effect of Fibulin-5 Haploinsufficiency on Vaginal Mechanical Behavior Using Extension-Inflation Testing - Gabrielle L. Clark, BS

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Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a common condition characterized by the descent of pelvic organs due to loss of pelvic floor support. Surgical intervention is often required, but reoperations and complications can occur. Understanding the mechanisms behind POP development is crucial for effective treatment. Animal models, such as the fibulin-5 deficient mouse model, have been used to study POP etiology.<br /><br />This study aimed to compare the mechanical properties of the fibulin-5 haploinsufficient (Fbln5 +/-) model to wild-type (Fbln5 +/+) mice using extension-inflation testing. Elastase digestion was used to quantify the contribution of elastic fibers in each genotype.<br /><br />The results showed that the Fbln5 +/+ vaginas were less distensible and stiffer compared to Fbln5 +/- vaginas. Elastic fibers significantly contributed to the biomechanical function in both genotypes. However, the elastin area fraction was significantly lower in Fbln5 +/- vaginas along the axial axis.<br /><br />Overall, significant differences in biomechanical function were observed between Fbln5 +/+ and Fbln5 +/- vaginas. Further studies are needed to determine if an intermediate biomechanical phenotype is present by studying the gene expression of fbln5 and biomechanical function across all three genotypes.<br /><br />Understanding the role of fibulin-5 and elastic fibers in vaginal mechanics can provide insights into the development and treatment of POP. This study contributes to a better understanding of the biomechanical properties of the vaginal tissue in relation to fibulin-5 haploinsufficiency. The findings highlight the need for further research in this field to improve the treatment outcomes for women with POP.

Keywords

Pelvic organ prolapse

pelvic floor support

surgical intervention

complications

mechanisms

animal models

fibulin-5 deficiency

biomechanical function

gene expression

vaginal mechanics