A new morpho-functional classification of the Fallopian tube based on its three-dimensional myoarchitecture

Abstract

The recent direct observations, under scanning electron microscopy (SEM), of the threedimensional architecture of myosalpinx in different mammals allows us classify salpinxes according to the myoarchitecture of their tubo-uterine junction (TUJ) and isthmus segments. Based upon the myoarchitecture of the outer wall of the TUJ we could find barrier-like species (rat and sow), sphincter-like species type a (rabbit and ewe) and sphincter-like species type b (cow and woman). The different architecture of TUJ can be explained by the different nature of the mating process. Based upon the myoarchitecture of the isthmus we could distinguish type 1 (rat) and type 2 (rabbit, ewe, sow, cow and woman) salpinxes. In the latter the close fusion of musculature deriving from the meso (extrinsic musculature) with the musculature of salpinx (intrinsic musculature) suggests the existence of a unique mesosalpinx contractile system. The myosalpinx is mostly made up of a single network of muscular fibers. Such a plexiform structure, owing to the uneven distribution of fibers, rather than producing a series of regular contraction waves, is more likely to generate random contraction waves. The random propagation of muscular network contraction may deform the plexiform wall of the myosalpinx causing the stirring of tubal contents. By such a stirring movement the contact between hormones and nutrients and the eggs or embryos is intensified, thus favoring a correct fertilization and early embryo development. Taken all together, these systematic results probably suggest an additional and rather new function for the musculature of the tube, namely to increase fertility in a large number of species.