Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 13, 2026
Two Methods for Establishing Primary Human Endometrial Stromal Cells from Hysterectomy Specimens
Published on: May 23, 2014
Temporal analysis of connexin43 protein and gene expression throughout the menstrual cycle in human endometrium
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaplan Hospital, Rehovot, Israel. granotie@inter.net.il
Objective:
To analyze the pattern of connexin43 gene and protein expression in human endometrium throughout the menstrual cycle.
Design:
Controlled clinical study.
Setting:
An academic research center.
Patient(S):
Women with 28-day menstrual cycles who had mechanical infertility and failed to conceive after IVF treatment.
Intervention(S):
Endometrial and blood samples were collected on days 8, 12, 14, 21, and 25 of spontaneous menstrual cycles.
Main Outcome Measure(S):
Endometrial expression of connexin43 protein and messenger RNA, endometrial thickness, and serum concentrations of gonadotropins and steroids.
Result(S):
The expression of connexin43 gene and protein decreased on day 12 and day 14 of the menstrual cycle and then increased on day 21 and day 25, respectively. A serum LH surge accompanied by a peak in the FSH concentration was observed on days 12-14. The progesterone concentration increased on days 21-25, but there was no significant change in the E2 concentration. The thickness of the endometrium increased between days 8 and 12 and did not change further between days 21 and 25.
Conclusion(S):
The expression of connexin43 gene and protein in human endometrium changes during the menstrual cycle in a pattern that is associated with the secretion of LH, FSH, and progesterone. This pattern may serve as a marker for implantation competence.
