The effect of the intrauterine contraceptive device on endometrial secretory function: a possible mode of action.
The effect of the intrauterine contraceptive device (IUD) on the composition of endometrial secretion has been studied using the monoclonal antibody D9B1. The antibody binds to a polypeptide-associated oligosaccharide epitope that is secreted by endometrial epithelium in the secretory phase with a maximum around the time of implantation. In endometria affected by the IUD in situ, a significant reduction in epitope expression has been observed using immunohistochemistry. This defect can occur against a background of normal secretory differentiation and in the expectation of normal ovarian stimulus. The data provide new insight into the contraceptive mechanisms of action of the IUD.
Seif
M W
MW
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Manchester, U.K.
Aplin
J D
JD
Awad
H
H
Wells
D
D
D000328:Adult; D004717:Endometrium / Q000378:metabolism*; D000939:Epitopes / Q000032:analysis; D005260:Female; D006651:Histocytochemistry; D006801:Humans; D007124:Immunoenzyme Techniques; D007434:Intrauterine Devices; D008597:Menstrual Cycle; D008875:Middle Aged; D009844:Oligosaccharides / Q000276:immunology
D000939:Epitopes; D009844:Oligosaccharides