Vaginal Response to Estrogens in Rats and Women
Author Information
Author(s): Scott A. Jelinsky, Sung E. Choe, Judy S. Crabtree, Monette M. Cotreau, Ewa Wilson, Kathryn Saraf, Andrew J. Dorner, Eugene L. Brown, Bryan J. Peano, Xiaochun Zhang, Richard C. Winneker, Heather A. Harris
Primary Institution: Wyeth Research
Hypothesis
How well does the ovariectomized rat model mimic human vaginal responses to estrogen treatment?
Conclusion
There is significant overlap in the effects of estrogen treatment between the OVX rat and human vaginal samples.
Supporting Evidence
- The study found a positive correlation in gene expression responses to estrogen between rats and humans.
- Over 5300 unique probe sets showed differential expression in rat vaginal tissue after estrogen treatment.
- The human vagina was also responsive to estrogen, with 1668 genes regulated.
Takeaway
This study looked at how estrogen affects the vagina in both rats and women, finding that they respond similarly.
Methodology
The study analyzed vaginal biopsies from women and ovariectomized rats treated with estrogen, comparing gene expression profiles.
Potential Biases
Potential biases due to the variability among human participants compared to inbred rat models.
Limitations
Differences in tissue types and treatment durations between rats and humans may affect the results.
Participant Demographics
19 postmenopausal women diagnosed with vaginal atrophy.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website