Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 24, 2026

Multiplexed Fluorescent Immunohistochemical Staining of Four Endometrial Immune Cell Types in Recurrent Miscarriage
Published on: August 4, 2021
[Comparison of apoptosis expression in the secretory endometrium during a normal menstrual cycle]
P Havelka1, I Oborná, V Lichnovský
1Gynekologicko-porodnické oddĕlení Batovy nemocnice, Zlín.
Objective:
Comparison of level of apoptosis in the mid-secretory human endometrium.
Design:
Clinical-laboratory trial.
Setting:
Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Medical Faculty, Palacký University, Faculty Hospital, Olomouc, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Bata Hospital, Zlín.
Methods:
Samples of secretory endometrium were obtained from 14 women. The women included in the study had the next criteria: a history of infertility of more than 12 months, regular menstrual cycles, age below 40 and FSH basal level range 5-9 IU/L. Sampling of tissue was performed after confirmed ovulation by LH surge and repeated ultrasound examinations. Patterns were processed by routine methods and apoptosis was detected using TUNEL assay.
Results:
The level of apoptosis in the endometrial epithelial surface was significantly higher on day +7 compared to day after ovulation (P < 0.02). Apoptotic cells were seen only sporadically in endometrial stromal cells. The level of apoptosis in endometrial stroma was also higher (but not statistically significant) on day +7 compared to day The level of apoptosis was markedly higher in spongy layer on day +7 (P < 0.01) compared to day There were no significant differences between day and +7 in compact layers of the glands.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Secretory Phase
Following ovulation, the corpus luteum, a temporary endocrine structure, produces progesterone and estrogens. These hormones stimulate the growth and coiling of endometrial...
The Menstrual Cycle
The menstrual phase occurs from days 1 to 5 and involves the shedding of the stratum functionalis, as a uterine...
Hormonal Regulation of the Menstrual Cycle
At puberty, GnRH begins a pulsatile release pattern, which triggers the anterior pituitary gland to secrete follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). The frequency and amplitude of GnRH pulses vary across the menstrual cycle, with faster pulses favoring LH release and slower pulses favoring FSH release.
Proliferative Phase
Notably, the stratum basale, the basal layer of the endometrium, including the basal parts of the uterine glands, remains unaffected by menstruation. Stem cells in this layer undergo mitosis, regenerating the stratum functionalis and thickening the...
Menses Phase
When fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum deteriorates, causing a significant drop in the levels of estrogen and progesterone in the body. This hormonal decrease triggers the release of prostaglandins, which cause the uterine...
Ovarian Cycle

