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Updated: Aug 17, 2026

Microdissection and Dissociation of the Murine Oviduct: Individual Segment Identification and Single Cell Isolation
Published on: November 4, 2021
Development of the mammalian female reproductive tract
1Division of Dermatology, Department of Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110, USA.
Abstract:
The female reproductive tract (FRT), which includes the oviduct, uterus, cervix and vagina, is critical for mammalian reproduction. Recent research using knockout mice has contributed substantially to our understanding of the molecular mechanisms governing FRT development. Aside from satisfying our curiosities about the origin of life, these studies have provided us with a better understanding of FRT disorders and ways to improve female fertility. Here we review genes that are involved in various stages of sexual duct formation and development in mammals. In addition, the effect of exogenous estrogen such as DES on FRT development is also discussed.
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