Myometrial contractility influences oxytocin receptor (OXTR) expression in term trophoblast cells obtained from the maternal surface of the human placenta

Abstract

Upregulation of OXTR within placental trophoblast cells localized close or adherent to uterine wall may play a crucial role in labor with efficient contractile activity (vaginal delivery). Further studies may disclose if this local OXT/OXTR signaling is utilized in the third stage of labor to elicit placental detachment or contribute in a more versatile way throughout the labor period.