Related Experiment Videos
Vascular endothelial growth factor expression in cycling human endometrium
D S Torry1, V J Holt, J A Keenan
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tennessee Medical Center, Knoxville 37920, USA.
Fertility and Sterility
|July 1, 1996
Summary
Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) protein is primarily in glandular cells of the secretory endometrium. VEGF gene expression and isoforms are present throughout the menstrual cycle, suggesting a role in endometrial receptivity.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Endocrinology
- Cell biology
Background:
- Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is crucial for angiogenesis and vascular permeability.
- Understanding VEGF's role in the endometrium is key to comprehending reproductive processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To map VEGF protein distribution in the human endometrium.
- To analyze temporal changes in VEGF gene expression and isoform production during the menstrual cycle.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study involving endometrial biopsies from different menstrual cycle phases.
- Immunohistochemistry for VEGF protein detection.
- RNA expression analysis and isoform profiling in intact endometrium and isolated cells.
Main Results:
- Secretory endometrium shows strong glandular VEGF immunoreactivity; proliferative endometrium shows weaker, inconsistent stromal staining.
- VEGF messenger RNA expression increases 3-6 fold in the secretory phase compared to the proliferative phase.
- Endometrial stromal and epithelial cells express VEGF121, VEGF165, and VEGF189 isoforms.
Conclusions:
- VEGF is expressed throughout the menstrual cycle in the endometrium.
- VEGF likely supports endometrial vascular growth, maintenance, and hyperpermeability for receptivity.