[Expression of prolactin receptor gene in human decidua of early pregnancy].

Abstract

Unlabelled: This study was designed to examine the expression of the prolactin receptor (PRL-R) gene in the human decidualized endometrium and to determine the localization of endometrial cells expressing the PRL-R gene.

Method: Decidua and trophoblast tissues of normal and ectopic pregnancy were obtained by curettage from patients undergoing artificial abortion at 8 -10 weeks of gestation. Total RNA was extracted to perform northern blot hybridization with a radiolabeled human PRL-R cDNA probe. Some tissues were cut and processed for in situ hybridization histochemistry with a radiolabeled RNA probe.

Results: 1. Northern blot hybridization: Approximately 9.0, 3.6 and 2.8kb size bands were detected in decidua in normal and ectopic pregnancy. No hybridization signal was detected in the chorionic villi. 2. In situ hybridization: Hybridization signals were detected in the cytoplasm of the decidual cells not only in normal pregnancy but also in ectopic pregnancy. No hybridization signal was detected in the trophoblast cells or endometrial glands.

Conclusion: The human PRL-R gene is expressed in the decidual cells in early pregnancy not only in normal pregnancy but also in ectopic pregnancy. And it has been reported that the decidual cells produce PRL. These results suggest that PRL may act directly on the decidual cells by paracrine and/or autocrine mechanisms.