Adult stem cells found in uterus

Dr Caroline Gargett from Monash Institute of Medical Research (MIMR) has discovered adult stem cells in the uterus that can be grown into bone, muscle, fat and cartilage and her research has been hailed as a major medical and scientific development by international reproduction experts.

Winning a major award at the recent European Society for Human Reproduction and Embryology (ESHRE) conference in Copenhagen, one of the most prestigious meetings in this field, Dr Gargett explained how two types of adult stem cells have been extracted from endometrial tissue in the uterus.

"While adult stem cells have been found in other parts of the body, no one has ever identified them in the uterus before," said Dr Gargett.

"Not only will this assist with understanding how several diseases of the uterus develop, but could also further general studies into adult stem cells."

The initial focus of this team at MIMR is on using these stem cells to aid the repair of pelvic floor prolapse.

"If we could offer women a bioengineered ligament that is made from their own stem cells, the long-term quality of life for the thousands of women who suffer from this problem could be greatly enhanced," she said.

Monash Medical Centre Urogynaecologist Dr Anne Rosamilia agrees that such a development could be significant.

"About one in 10 women require treatment for uterine prolapse, usually in their 50s and older, although it can happen to younger women. The pelvic floor is weakened during pregnancy and childbirth and as a woman ages, the strength of these muscles can deteriorate further," Dr Rosamilia explained.

"At present we use surgery to repair prolapsed uterus, which is a form of hernia," she said.

"However, in almost 30% of women the prolapse can reoccur. To reduce this chance of a recurrence a reinforcement material, often a synthetic mesh, is applied. While this technique can be successful, complications also frequently arise due to erosion or rejection of the foreign matter. A firm natural tissue would certainly be advantageous."