Extracellular matrix and the implantation cascade in pigs.
The structural and functional alterations of uterine epithelial cells that permit the apical-apical union of conceptus and uterine epithelium are complex and are likely to involve many different adhesion molecules with distinct but inter-related functions. A number of changes in the molecular composition at the apical surface of uterine epithelial cells associated with the transition from the pre-receptive to the receptive state in the pig uterus are reviewed. Molecules that function in the adhesion cascade resulting in implantation are represented by a variety of adhesion systems. However, integrins are probably the dominant adhesion systems because their capacity to mediate adhesion is linked to their activation by engaging other surface molecules.
Burghardt
R C
RC
Department of Veterinary Anatomy & Public Health, Texas A & M University, College Station 77843, USA.
Bowen
J A
JA
Newton
G R
GR
Bazer
F W
FW
D000818:Animals; D002448:Cell Adhesion / Q000502:physiology; D010064:Embryo Implantation / Q000502:physiology*; D004848:Epithelium / Q000378:metabolism; D005109:Extracellular Matrix / Q000378:metabolism*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D016023:Integrins / Q000502:physiology*; D011247:Pregnancy; D015398:Signal Transduction / Q000502:physiology; D013552:Swine / Q000502:physiology*; D014599:Uterus / Q000378:metabolism*
D016023:Integrins