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Pregnancy Induced Alterations Of Reproductive Tract Collagen And Elastin In A Murine Model, Basant K. Dhital

Dissertations, Theses, and Capstone Projects

This thesis reports on structural and dynamical modifications of reproductive tract elastin and collagen as a function of parity. Pelvic floor dysfunction, including pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a major concern affecting female health worldwide, leading to surgeries costing billions of dollars annually. Collagen, elastic fibers, and proteoglycans are major extracellular matrix (ECM) components found in connective tissues. Vaginal child birth, advancing age, and disruption or dysfunction of connective tissue are major risk factors of POP. In the female reproductive tract, the assembly of elastic fibers is crucial for the pelvic floor support. Any disturbance in the synthesis, assembly, and …