Cytology of the endometrium of delayed and early implantation with special reference to mice and mustelids
Schlafke, S.; Enders, A.C.; Given, R.L.
Journal of Reproduction and Fertility. Supplement 29: 135-141
1981
ISSN/ISBN: 0449-3087 PMID: 6939862 Document Number: 177323
In this review, it is shown that although the uterus is involved in the control of embryonic diapause, in no instance is the precise nature of that control known. The most direct control would be through synthesis of proteins or other macromolecules by the uterus itself. Whereas luminal contents have been shown to vary significantly near the time of implantation, neither the role of the luminal fluid constituents, nor the cellular origins of these molecules, is fully known, nor have the mechanisms of storage and secretion of proteins in the endometrium been fully established. Despite striking changes in these cytological characteristics in different animals during delayed and early implantation, there is no single pattern during the delay period, and no predictable alteration in the peri-implantation period. In general, the structure of the uterus of an animal during delayed implantation resembles a modification of that of a closely related species that does not delay more than it resembles that of other species that show delay.