[Expression of epidermal growth factor receptor in human preimplantation embroys].
OBJECTIVE
To investigate the expression of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) in human preimplantation embryos and to explore the effect of EGFR on human embryos growth, development and implantation.


METHODS
To detect the localization and expression of EGFR in human preimplantation embryos with indirect immunofluorescence assays(IIF).


RESULTS
There was EGFR expression in human preimplantation embryos from unfertilized oocyts, 2-cell, 4-cell, 6-8 cell to 10-cell stages embryos. EGFR protein located on the cell membrance surface, and had no obvious variation in intensity of staining from whole stages embryos.


CONCLUSIONS
The expression of EGFR was present in human preimplantation embryos, heparin-binding EGF-like epidermal growth factor (HB-EGF), one of the EGF superfamily members act through the EGFR, EGFR expression may have an important role in human embryos growth, development and implantation.
Jiang
Q
Q
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wulumuqi General Hospital, Lanzhou Military Area, Wulumuqi 830000, China.
Chen
S
S
Xing
F
F
D001755:Blastocyst / Q000737:chemistry*; D010064:Embryo Implantation; D066246:ErbB Receptors / Q000032:analysis* / Q000502:physiology; D005260:Female; D019084:Fluorescent Antibody Technique, Indirect; D006801:Humans; D011247:Pregnancy
D066246:ErbB Receptors