[Cytokines and growth factors as autocrine and paracrine modulators in the peri-implantation period].
The embryo implantation is a complex event that involve a interactions sequence among conceptus and uterine endometrium. Several cytokines and growth factors participate as autocrine/paracrine modulators in such interrelations. In this paper the role and expression and functions of cytokines and growth factors in early pregnancy are analyzed. Post-coito expression of cytokines in uterine cells and leukocytes promoting a uterine inflammatory response to semen. The growth factors are expressed in early pregnancy for several uterine tissues. The ovarian steroid hormones modulate the synthesis and secretion of this molecules in uterus. Autocrine and paracrine regulation are require for embryo implantation. At least interleukin-1, leukemia inhibitor factor and epidermal growth factor receptor are indispensable to mice embryo implantation.
D000818:Animals; D016207:Cytokines / Q000378:metabolism*; D010064:Embryo Implantation; D004622:Embryo, Mammalian / Q000502:physiology*; D005260:Female; D005956:Glucose-6-Phosphate Isomerase; D006133:Growth Substances / Q000378:metabolism*; D006801:Humans; D051379:Mice; D011247:Pregnancy; D013256:Steroids