Generation of a novel three-dimensional scaffold-based model of the bovine endometrium.

Bovine in vitro endometrial models that resemble tissue function in vivo are needed to study infertility, long-term uterine alterations induced by pathogens and impact of endocrine disruptor chemicals on reproductive function and other reproductive system complications that cause high economic losses in livestock species. The present study aimed to generate an innovative, reproducible, and functional 3D scaffold-based model of the bovine endometrium structurally robust for long term-culture. We developed a multicellular model containing both endometrial epithelial and stromal cells. Epithelial cells organized to form a luminal-like epithelial layer on the surface of the scaffold. Stromal cells produced their own extracellular matrix forming a stable subepithelial compartment that physiologically resembles the normal endometrium. Both cell types released prostaglandin E2 and prostaglandin F2α following a treatment with oxytocin and arachidonic acid. Additionally signal pathways mediating oxytocin and arachidonic acid stimulation of prostaglandin synthesis were analyzed by real time PCR (RT-PCR). Oxytocin receptor (OXTR), prostaglandin E2 receptor 2 (EP2), prostaglandin E2 receptor 4 (EP4), prostaglandin F receptor (PTGFR), prostaglandin E synthase (PTGES), PGF-synthase (PGFS) and prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (COX-2) expression was detected in both control and treatment groups, however, only significant changes in abundance of OXTR mRNA transcripts were found. The results obtained by this study are a step forward in bovine in vitro culture technology. This 3D scaffold-based model provides a platform to study regulatory mechanisms involved in endometrial physiology and can set the basis for a broader tool for designing and testing novel therapeutic strategies for recurrent uterine pathologies.

Influence of nutrition education in paediatric coeliac disease: impact of the role of the registered dietitian: a prospective, single-arm intervention study.

BACKGROUND: The diagnosis of coeliac disease (CD) involves a change in the diet of the individual, which may influence their quality of life and nutritional status. The present study aimed to determine whether nutrition education by a registered dietitian is able to improve eating habits and body composition in children with CD. METHODS: Dietary, physical activity and body composition changes were analysed, comparing baseline assessments with those 1 year after receiving education on healthy eating. At both time points, a 3-day dietary survey, a food frequency consumption questionnaire, an adherence to the Mediterranean diet test (Kidmed), duration of activity and an electrical bioimpedance study were conducted. Student's paired t-test and the McNemar test were also employed. RESULTS: Seventy-two subjects (42 girls) with an mean (range) age of 10 (2-16) years were included. Before the intervention, an unbalanced diet was observed, rich in protein and fat, and deficient in complex carbohydrates. Only 14% consumed an adequate Mediterranean diet. After nutrition intervention, a significant increase in the consumption of plant-based foods and a concomitant decrease in meat, dairy and processed food intake (P < 0.001) were observed. Moreover, 92% of the patients (P < 0.001) managed to consume an adequate Mediterranean diet. Similarly, an increase was observed in the duration of physical activity undertaken [mean (SD) 1.02 (1.79) h, P < 0.001] and improvements in body composition were recorded, with a 17% decrease in fat mass percentage (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Nutrition intervention focused on healthy eating is effective with respect to improving the nutritional status and diet quality in CD patients.