Preimplantation development of the mammalian embryo and its regulation by growth factors

Preimplantation development in mammals involves both the development of the embryo and the preparation of the uterus in anticipation of blastocysts implantation. Preparation of the uterus for implantation is primarily under the control of the ovarian sex steroids, estrogen and progesterone. Increasing evidence is revealing that their effects on cell proliferation and differentiation in the uterus are medicated by locally produced growth factors and cytokines. In contrast, preimplantation development of the embryo to the blastocyst stage appears to be independent of exogenous growth factors. Implantation, the point at which the blastocyst forms a more intimate association with the maternal tissues, is regulated by the uterine expression of leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF). LIF is required both to promote embryo attachment and for decidualization of the uterus. In the absence of LIF, neither of these events occur. Uterine expression of LIF at the time of implantation has been described in many species, suggesting that LIF may be of general significance in regulating embryo implantation in mammals.