Fibroblasts from women with pelvic organ prolapse show differential mechanoresponses depending on surface substrates

Introduction and hypothesis
Little is known about dynamic cell-matrix interactions in the context of pathophysiology and treatments for pelvic organ prolapse (POP). This study sought to identify differences between fibroblasts from women with varying degrees of prolapse in reaction to mechanical stimuli and matrix substrates in vitro.

Methods
Fibroblasts from the vaginal wall of three patients with POP Quantification (POP-Q) system stages 0, II, and IV were stretched on artificial polymer substrates either coated or not coated with collagen I. Changes in morphology and anabolic/catabolic compounds that affect matrix remodelling were evaluated at protein- and gene-expression levels. Statistical analysis was performed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), followed by Tukey-Kramer’s post hoc test.

Results
POP fibroblasts show delayed cell alignment and lower responses to extracellular matrix remodelling factors at both enzymatic- and gene-expression levels compared with healthy fibroblasts.

Conclusion
POP fibroblasts, when compared with healthy cells, show differential mechanoresponses on two artificial polymer substrates. This should be taken into account when designing or improving implants for treating POP.