Uterine and placental distribution of selected extracellular matrix (ECM) components in the dog

• Published in: Reproduction
• Main Authors: Graubner, Felix R, Boos, Alois, Aslan, Selim, Kücükaslan, İbrahim, Kowalewski, Mariusz P
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: Society for Reproduction and Fertility 2018
• Subjects: Extracellular matrix (ECM); Dog; Canis lupus
• Online Access: https://hdl.handle.net/11468/5217; https://rep.bioscientifica.com/view/journals/rep/155/5/REP-17-0761.xml; https://doi.org/10.1530/REP-17-0761

Uterine and placental distribution of selected extracellular matrix (ECM) components in the dog in Reproduction Authors: Felix R Graubner 1 , Alois Boos 1 , Selim Aslan 2 , Ibrahim Kücükaslan 3 and Mariusz P Kowalewski 1 View More DOI: https://doi.org/10.1530/REP-17-0761 Page(s): 403–421 Volume/Issue: Volume 155: Issue 5 Article Type: Research Article Online Publication Date: May 2018 Copyright: © 2018 Society for Reproduction and Fertility 2018 Free access Download PDF Check for updates Get Permissions For many years, modifications of the uterine extracellular matrix (ECM) during gestation have not been considered as critical for successful canine (Canis lupus familiaris) pregnancy. However, previous reports indicated an effect of free-floating blastocysts on the composition of the uterine ECM. Here, the expression of selected genes involved in structural functions, cell-to-cell communication and inhibition of matrix metalloproteinases were targeted utilizing qPCR and immunohistochemistry. We found that canine free-floating embryos affect gene expression of FN1, ECM1 and TIMP4. This seems to be associated with modulation of trophoblast invasion, and proliferative and adhesive functions of the uterus. Although not modulated at the beginning of pregnancy, the decrease of structural ECM components (i.e. COL1, -3, -4 and LAMA 2) from pre-implantation toward post-implantation at placentation sites appears to be associated with softening of the tissue in preparation for trophoblast invasion. The further decrease of these components at placentation sites at the time of prepartum luteolysis seems to be associated with preparation for the release of fetal membranes. Reflecting a high degree of communication, intercellular cell adhesion molecules are induced following placentation (Cx26) or increase gradually toward prepartum luteolysis (Cx43). The spatio-temporal expression of TIMPs suggests their active involvement in modulating fetal invasiveness, and together with ECM1, they appear to protect deeper endometrial ...