Abstract
Mice deficient in lysyl oxidase-like1 protein (LOXL1−/−) develop pelvic organ prolapse (POP). We sought to determine the impact of LOXL1−/− on the biomechanical properties of the vagina and its supportive tissues tested as a complex. Tissues of nulliparous LOXL1−/− and age-matched wild type (WT) mice were tested to failure to obtain load-distension curves. Data were compared utilizing one-way analysis of variance and appropriate post hoc tests. The groups demonstrated different biomechanical behavior, with LOXL1−/− animals displaying a 31% decrease in ultimate load at failure (p=0.001). Experimental disruption of specific levels of support in WT mice failed to generate load-distension curves similar to the LOXL1−/− mice indicating a global instead of a site-specific tissue defect. The decrease in the ultimate load at failure in the LOXL1−/− mice suggests mechanically weaker tissues. LOXL1 mutation results in a global defect in connective tissues and correlates with altered biomechanical behavior of the vagina and supportive tissues.
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We would like to thank Ian K. Hornstra, MD, for his generous donation of the LOXL1 knockout mice.
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Alperin, M., Debes, K., Abramowitch, S. et al. LOXL1 deficiency negatively impacts the biomechanical properties of the mouse vagina and supportive tissues. Int Urogynecol J 19, 977–986 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00192-008-0561-7
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00192-008-0561-7