Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 4, 2026

05:16
Multiplexed Fluorescent Immunohistochemical Staining of Four Endometrial Immune Cell Types in Recurrent Miscarriage
Published on: August 4, 2021
Autofluorescence reveals menstrual phase in the endometrium
A C Y Chen1, H K Chiang, W Y Liang
1Institute of Clinical Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taiwan, ROC.
Clinical and Experimental Obstetrics & Gynecology
|June 28, 2008
Summary
Autofluorescence spectroscopy accurately determines endometrial phases, showing distinct spectral patterns. This technique offers a reliable, non-invasive method for real-time endometrial phase interpretation in clinical settings.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Optics
- Gynecological Pathology
Background:
- Autofluorescence spectroscopy utilizes intrinsic tissue fluorophores for analysis.
- This technique is established for differentiating normal from precancerous tissues.
- Endometrial phase determination is crucial for reproductive health assessments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the capability and reliability of autofluorescence spectroscopy for determining human endometrial phases.
- To explore the potential of autofluorescence as a clinical tool for endometrial phase interpretation.
Main Methods:
- Autofluorescence spectra were acquired from 31 human endometrial tissue samples using 330 nm xenon light excitation.
- Spectra were analyzed based on proliferative and secretory phases.
- Multivariate analysis, including partial least squares (PLS) and ANOVA, assessed statistical significance.
Main Results:
- Both proliferative and secretory endometrial spectra exhibited a characteristic triple-peak pattern.
- Significant variations in peak intensities (p < 0.01) distinguished the two phases.
- Autofluorescence of collagen, NADH, and FAD were key determinants; phase determination sensitivity was 100% and specificity 97%.
Conclusions:
- Autofluorescence spectroscopy provides real-time data on endometrial phase status.
- The high accuracy suggests autofluorescence is a promising tool for rapid clinical endometrial phase interpretation.
Related Concept Videos
Secretory Phase
The secretory phase of the menstrual cycle, spanning from day 14 to 28 in a typical 28-day cycle, is a period of significant physiological changes in the female reproductive system. This phase commences immediately after ovulation and is characterized by the preparation of the endometrium for potential embryo implantation.
Following ovulation, the corpus luteum, a temporary endocrine structure, produces progesterone and estrogens. These hormones stimulate the growth and coiling of endometrial...
Following ovulation, the corpus luteum, a temporary endocrine structure, produces progesterone and estrogens. These hormones stimulate the growth and coiling of endometrial...
Menses Phase
The uterine cycle begins with the menstrual phase, which is considered day one of the cycle and typically lasts about five days. This phase is characterized by the degeneration and shedding of the stratum functionalis, the functional layer of the endometrium.
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...
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...
The Menstrual Cycle
The menstrual cycle is a recurrent sequence of changes in the uterine endometrium, specifically its functional layer, the stratum functionalis. This cycle prepares the uterus for potential pregnancy. This cycle typically spans 21–35 days, averaging 28 days, and aligns with the ovarian cycle, regulated by fluctuating levels of ovarian hormones, primarily estrogen and progesterone.
The menstrual phase occurs from days 1 to 5 and involves the shedding of the stratum functionalis, as a uterine...
The menstrual phase occurs from days 1 to 5 and involves the shedding of the stratum functionalis, as a uterine...
Proliferative Phase
The proliferative phase typically occurs after menstruation and lasts between 6 to 13 days in a standard 28-day cycle. This phase involves the reconstruction of the endometrium, guided by estrogen produced by the developing ovarian follicle.
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...
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...
Hormonal Regulation of the Menstrual Cycle
The ovarian cycle regulates endometrial changes throughout a single menstrual cycle via the coordinated action of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and gonadotrophins.
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.
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.

