Ovarian hyperstimulation affects fluid transporters in the uterus: a potential mechanism in uterine receptivity

Reprod Fertil Dev. 2014 Aug;26(7):982-90. doi: 10.1071/RD12396.

Abstract

Controlled ovarian hyperstimulation is commonly used in fertility treatment. Evidence suggests that this could alter the endometrial environment and influence implantation rate. However, the mechanisms underlying this disruption are unknown. A recently developed rat ovarian hyperstimulation (OH) model found alterations in the localisation and expression of several molecules associated with implantation, as well as an increase in luminal fluid at the time of implantation. The present study investigated the effects of OH in rats on the expression of fluid-transporting molecules aquaporin 5 (AQP5) and claudin 4. The expression of these proteins was investigated in uterine luminal epithelial cells of rats undergoing OH and compared with normal pregnancy. There was a significant increase in AQP5 protein in OH rats at the time of implantation, along with a loss of the mesometrial staining gradient, which is thought to contribute to implantation position. At the same time, there was a significant decrease in claudin 4 protein. These results suggest that OH in rats causes a dysregulation in uterine fluid dynamics through modifications to fluid-transporting molecules, resulting in an unfavourable implantation environment for the blastocyst.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Aquaporin 5 / analysis*
  • Claudin-4 / analysis*
  • Cytoplasm / chemistry
  • Embryo Implantation / drug effects
  • Embryo Implantation / physiology*
  • Epithelial Cells / chemistry
  • Female
  • Gonadotropins, Equine / administration & dosage
  • Ovulation Induction* / adverse effects
  • Ovulation Induction* / methods
  • Rats
  • Rats, Wistar
  • Tight Junctions / chemistry
  • Uterus / chemistry*
  • Uterus / physiology*
  • Uterus / ultrastructure

Substances

  • Aquaporin 5
  • Claudin-4
  • Gonadotropins, Equine