Introduction and hypothesis: The extracellular matrix proteins collagen and elastin provide tissue strength and resilience, whereas lysyl oxidase enzymes play a major role in their stabilization. This study examines the expression and tissue localization of lysyl oxidase family proteins in the anterior vaginal wall of premenopausal women with advanced pelvic organ prolapse (POP, n = 15) and asymptomatic controls (n = 11). All women were in the proliferative phase of menstrual cycle.
Methods: Total mRNAs and proteins extracted from the vaginal tissue were examined by real-time polymerase chain reaction and immunoblotting, and tissue specimens were analyzed by immunohistochemistry.
Results: The expression of LOX, LOXL1, and LOXL3 genes as well as LOX and LOXL3 proteins were significantly reduced in POP patients (P < 0.05). Immunolocalization of LOX family proteins was confirmed in all vaginal specimens.
Conclusion: We proposed that reduced expression of LOX enzymes may result in defective assembly of pelvic tissues and development of POP.