Remodeling of the human endometrial epithelium is regulated by laminin and type IV collagen
We investigated the expression and function of laminin and type IV collagen (COL-4) in the human endometrial epithelium throughout the menstrual cycle. Their expression was demonstrated by immunohistochemistry, while cytological analysis of the human endometrial epithelial cell line
HHUA cultured on laminin- or COL-4-coated plates provided information on their roles in cell proliferation, structure and apoptosis. Laminin and COL-4 were detected in subepithelial basement membrane-like structures and their expression levels varied throughout the menstrual cycle. Laminin
expression was significantly decreased in secretory phase endometrial surface epithelium, while COL-4 expression was significantly decreased in late proliferative phase endometrial epithelium and in vascular endothelium. The morphology of proliferating HHUA cells varied depending on the extracellular
matrix component coated on the culture plates. COL-4 strongly inhibited cell proliferation of HHUA cells and enhanced Fas antigen (CD95)-mediated apoptosis, while laminin inhibited Fas-mediated apoptosis. These results indicate that the cyclic expression of laminin and COL-4 in basement membrane-like
structures of endometrial epithelium may regulate the endometrial epithelial remodeling and embryo implantation during the menstrual cycle.
Document Type: Research Article
Affiliations: Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wakayama Medical University, Wakayama 641-0012, Japan., Email: [email protected]
Publication date: 01 February 2009
- The International Journal of Molecular Medicine is a monthly, peer-reviewed journal devoted to the publication of high quality studies related to the molecular mechanisms of human disease. The journal welcomes research on all aspects of molecular and clinical research, ranging from biochemistry to immunology, pathology, genetics, human genomics, microbiology, molecular pathogenesis, molecular cardiology, molecular surgery and molecular psychology.
The International Journal of Molecular Medicine aims to provide an insight for researchers within the community in regard to developing molecular tools and identifying molecular targets for the diagnosis and treatment of a diverse number of human diseases. - Editorial Board
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