Related Experiment Videos
A computer model of uterine contractions based on action potential propagation and intercellular calcium waves
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston 29425, USA.
Objective:
To simulate a uterine contraction using a novel computer model for uterine communication and to validate the assumptions of the computer model by comparing the simulated contraction with a real uterine contraction.
Methods:
The computer model assumed two known mechanisms of intercellular communication: action potential propagation and calcium wave propagation. Simulations were performed on a desktop computer using available programming language. Model validity was assessed by fitting the computer-simulated contraction to a real contraction and comparing the fit values with values measured independently.
Results:
The simulated contraction demonstrated five characteristics that are also observed in human labor: 1) gradual onset, 2) a linear rising segment, 3) a plateau region, 4) a symmetrical fall, and 5) gradual offset. The fit values agreed well with values determined experimentally and supported the model.
Conclusions:
Our results support the model, strongly suggesting that intercellular communication occurs throughout the uterus by action potentials and locally within the tissue by calcium waves.