Regular Use of Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate Causes Thinning of the Superficial Lining and Apical Distribution of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Target Cells in the Human Ectocervix.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The hormonal contraceptive depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA) may be associated with an increased risk of acquiring human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). We hypothesize that DMPA use influences the ectocervical tissue architecture and HIV target cell localization.

Methods

Quantitative image analysis workflows were developed to assess ectocervical tissue samples collected from DMPA users and control subjects not using hormonal contraception.

Results

Compared to controls, the DMPA group exhibited a significantly thinner apical ectocervical epithelial layer and a higher proportion of CD4+CCR5+ cells with a more superficial location. This localization corresponded to an area with a nonintact E-cadherin net structure. CD4+Langerin+ cells were also more super

SUBMITTER: Edfeldt G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8974825 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature