Identification of a rat protein similar to the human decidua-associated protein (hDP) 200

The possibility of using the rat as an experimental model for the further research of human decidua-associated protein (hDP) 200 was examined. A rat protein similar to the hDP 200 was identified and immunoaffinity purified, using a monoclonal antibody recognizing hDP 200. The protein was named rat decidua-associated protein (rDP) 200. The abundance of rDP 200 in endometrial tissue extracts and in uterine washings was measured throughout the oestrous cycle and on consecutive days, starting the day after the rats mated until the day after the blastocyst implantation. The results indicate that the highest concentration of rDP 200 in uterine washings may be related to oestrogen control and probably to the implantation process. Further studies are needed to confirm these findings.