Proteomic analysis of the luteal endometrial secretome

Reprod Sci. 2009 Sep;16(9):883-93. doi: 10.1177/1933719109337165. Epub 2009 Jun 3.

Abstract

Endometrium attains a secretory architecture in preparation for embryo implantation, but the identity of most endometrial secretory products remains unknown. Our objective was to characterize the endometrial secretome and compare protein expression between prereceptive (luteinizing hormone [LH]+4) and receptive (LH+9) phase endometrium. Endometrial lavage was performed in 11 participants and analyzed by difference gel electrophoresis (DIGE). LH+4 and LH+9 specimens were labeled with cyanine fluorescent dyes Cy3 and Cy5 tags, respectively, and combined. Proteins were separated using 2-dimensional gel electrophoresis, isolated, trypsin-digested, and subjected to mass spectrometry. In all, 152 proteins were identified; 82 were differentially expressed. Most proteins with increased expression on LH+9 functioned in host defense, while proteins with decreased expression had many functions. A total of 14 proteins had changes suggesting altered posttranslational modification. This article describes the first application of proteomic analysis to endometrial secretions, allowing identification of novel endometrial proteins as well as those differentially secreted in prereceptive and receptive phases.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Apoptosis Regulatory Proteins / metabolism
  • Carrier Proteins / metabolism
  • Electrophoresis, Gel, Two-Dimensional
  • Endometrium / metabolism*
  • Female
  • Fibrinogen / metabolism
  • Fluorescent Dyes
  • Heat-Shock Proteins / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Immunoproteins / metabolism
  • Luteal Phase / metabolism*
  • Luteinizing Hormone / metabolism
  • Pregnancy
  • Protein Processing, Post-Translational / physiology
  • Proteomics*

Substances

  • Apoptosis Regulatory Proteins
  • Carrier Proteins
  • Fluorescent Dyes
  • Heat-Shock Proteins
  • Immunoproteins
  • fibrinopeptides gamma
  • Fibrinogen
  • Luteinizing Hormone