Abstract
Embryonic development is a time-sensitive period that requires a synchronized uterine environment, which is created by the secretion of proteins from both the embryo and uterus. Numerous studies have identified uterine luminal proteins and related these to specific adaptations during early pregnancy (EP). However, no study has yet utilized LC-MS/MS to identify the signature profile of proteins in the uterine lumen during EP. In this study, uterine luminal fluid from nonpregnant (NP; n = 3) and EP (n = 3; gestational day 16) ewes were analyzed by LC-MS/MS and validated by Western immunoblotting. We identified a unique signature profile for EP luminal fluid; 15 proteins related to specific aspects of embryonic development including growth and remodeling, immune system regulation, oxidative stress balance, and nutrition were significantly altered (up to 65-fold of NP) in EP profile. Specific uterine remodeling proteins such as transgelin (P = 0.008) and placental proteins like PP9 (P = 0.02) were present in EP luminal fluid but were barely detectable in the NP flushings. Direct correlations (R(2) = 0.84, P = 0.01) were observed between proteomics and immunoblotting. These data provide information on dynamic physiological processes associated with EP at the level of the uterus and conceptus and may potentially demonstrate a signature profile associated with embryonic well-being.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
