Reproduction · 1981 · 80 citations · 9 references
MedicineAnimal SciencesEndocrinologyReproductive EndocrinologyReproductive MedicineReproductive PhysiologyEmbryo ImplantationPregnancyPregnancy BiologyPregnancy EndocrinologyReproductive PharmacologyRodent ReproductionEndocrine Control Of ImplantationFetal Reproductive DevelopmentHormonal Regulation Of ImplantationImplantation PhysiologyProstaglandin ActivityProstaglandin PhysiologyProstaglandin Regulation
Studies of prostaglandin (PG) production by uterine homogenates of rats in early pseudopregnancy and pregnancy showed that production of 6-oxo-PGF-1 alpha, PGF-2 alpha and PGE-2 peaked on Day 5 of pseudopregnancy whereas only 6-oxo-PGF-1 alpha and PGE-2 peaked on Day 5 of pregnancy, the day of implantation. 6-Oxo-PGF-1 alpha was the major product in both reproductive states. Indomethacin treatment of rats during early pregnancy caused a delay in implantation, a significant reduction in uterine weight, and a much reduced number or absence of implanted blastocysts in the uterus on Day 9. Plasma progesterone levels were also significantly lower in indomethacin-treated, pregnant rats. These findings support roles for prostaglandins in implantation, and in fetal development.
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