Extracellular matrix and the implantation cascade in pigs. Academic Article uri icon

abstract

  • 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.

published proceedings

  • J Reprod Fertil Suppl

author list (cited authors)

  • Burghardt, R. C., Bowen, J. A., Newton, G. R., & Bazer, F. W.

citation count

  • 73

complete list of authors

  • Burghardt, RC||Bowen, JA||Newton, GR||Bazer, FW

publication date

  • January 1997