EXOGENOUS GONADOTROPIN ADMINISTRATION AFFECTS THE GLYCOCALYX OF RAT ENDOMETRIAL EPITHELIAL-CELLS DURING THE PERIOD OF IMPLANTATION

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.