Abstract:

Objective Intrauterine adhesion (IUA) seriously affects reproductive health of women. In order to better study IUA, we established a rat model of IUA by endometrial scraping, and evaluated the method of this model. Methods A total of 60 SD rats were randomly divided into three groups: the sham group, the endometrial layer scraped group and the endometrial and partly mesenchymal layer scraped group (n=20 each). In the sham group, uteri were cut open and then closed without any other surgical procedures. In the other two groups, endometrial and mesenchymal layers of rats were scraped and sutured. After 3, 7, 14, 21 and 28 days of scraping, uteri were sampled for histological and immunochemical evaluation. Results The endometrial layer of uteri was disappeared. The new endometrial layer of uteri was seen in the endometrial layer scraped group after 7 days of scraping. In the endometrial and partly mesenchymal layer scraped group, folds of endometrium were absent, the endometrial layer was removed, at least 50% of mesenchymal layer was disappeared, the number of endometrial glands were significantly decreased, and the fibrosis area of endometrium was increased with the development of fibrosis. The expression of transforming growth factor β1 was increased while matrix metalloproteinase 9 was decreased, which was in accordance with pathophysiological changes.
Conclusion Endometrial and partly mesenchymal layer scraping can establish an IUA rat model. The IUA rat model is in agreement with IUA changes, which can be used in IUA studies.

Key words: Intrauterine adhesion, Endometrium, Transforming growth factor β₁, Matrix metalloproteinase 9, Immunochemistry, Rat