B. Kramer et G. Dewet, EXOGENOUS GONADOTROPIN ADMINISTRATION AFFECTS THE GLYCOCALYX OF RAT ENDOMETRIAL EPITHELIAL-CELLS DURING THE PERIOD OF IMPLANTATION, Journal of assisted reproduction and genetics, 11(10), 1994, pp. 504-509
Purpose: Exogenous gonadotropins which cause superovulation are known
to effect endometrial morphology, including the glycocalyx of surface
epithelial cells. Certain of the carbohydrates in the glycocalyx of su
rface epithelial cells may be involved in the attachment and implantat
ion of the blastocyst. Methods: The effect of exogenous gonadotropins
on specific carbohydrates in the glycocalyx of the rat endometrium aro
und the time of implantation,vas investigated. Lectin-avidin-biotin-fe
rritin cytochemistry was used to ascertain which carbohydrates were af
fected. The lectins soybean agglutinin, fucose binding protein and whe
at germ agglutinin were used. Results: Statistically significantly les
s lectin was associated with the apical membrane of surface epithelial
cells of animals following hyperstimulation than in noninjected pregn
ant animals. Conclusions: The reduction in the carbohydrates contribut
es to a reduced receptivity of the endometrium for the blastocyst.