研究実績の概要 |
The understanding of the interaction between the conceptus and uterine environment is crucial to ameliorate the embryonic loss in domestic animals. The present research aimed to reveal the local mechanisms of action of embryonic products on bovine uterus during implantations and their interactions. 1) We found that epidermal growth factor (EGF) is mainly produced by uterine luminal epithelial cells but not by bovine embryos. 2) EGF protein in bovine endometrium was higher around the time of implantation compared with other luteal stages. 3) Cultured endometrial epithelial cells produce more EGF than endometrial stromal cells. 4) EGF has the ability to increase luteolytic (prostaglandin F2alpha) and luteoptropic (prostaglandin E2) in both epithelial and stromal cells. Interestingly, endometrium contains more EGF around the time of implantation. This growth factor stimulates the production of interferon-τ, the pregnancy recognition factor in cattle, to ensure the establishment of pregnancy.
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