α_v β_3 Integrin Express on Mid-luteal Human Endometrium: An Immunogold and Immunofluorescent Staining Study

Introduction: the implantation is a complex procedure that involves many molecules. oneof these molecules is integrin specially α_v β_3 which serves as receptor for components of extracellular matrix to act as bridging molecules between the blastocyst and the endometrial surfaceduring the implantation process. by blocking α_v β_3 interactions, the implantation can be impaired.methods: the endometrial biopsies obtained from the anterior wall of the uterine cavityof 12 women. each biopsy divided into three pieces; one fixed in 10% neutrally bufferedform aldehyde for light microscopy and immunofluorescent study. the second fixed in 4% paraform aldehyde in 0.1 m phosphate buffer (ph 7.4) for immunogold electron microscopy and the third fixed in 2.5% glutaraldehyde in 0.1 m phosphate buffer (ph 7.4) for scanning electron microscopy. afterwards, the biopsies evaluated by immunofluorescent, immunogold and scanning electron microscopy techniques.results: immunofluorescent staining demonstrated that α_v β_3 integrin express only on luminalsurface epithelium and glandular epithelium of mid-luteal phase. immunogold staining images inmid-luteal phase samples showed that α_v β_3 integrin express on ciliated, non- ciliated (pinopdes)cells and junctional complexes. while, no reactivity observed on the endometrial surface, usingthe negative control antibody or in specimens incubated without primary antibody in any of thespecimens.conclusion: the results showed that α_v β_3 integrin express only on luminal surface epitheliumand glandular epithelium in the mid-luteal phase of human endometrium and it may play akey role during the process of the embryo implantation. targeting integrins may provide a newavenue for the development of contraceptive technologies, and the loss of this integrin in certaininfertility states may signify the presence of implantation defects that reduce cycle fecundity inwomen.