Ly49 knockdown in mice results in aberrant uterine crypt formation and impaired blastocyst implantation

Placenta. 2016 Mar:39:147-50. doi: 10.1016/j.placenta.2016.01.013. Epub 2016 Jan 26.

Abstract

Genetic knockdown (KD) of the mouse Ly49 receptor family is reported to result in infertility despite the presence of zona-enclosed blastocysts in the uterus. Ly49 receptors regulate leukocyte functions particularly Natural Killer (NK) cell functions and are analogous to human killer immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIRs). Histological analyses of gd3.5-4.5 B6.Ly49(KD) uteri identified hatched but retarded blastocysts with pyknotic nuclei, aberrant endometrial crypt formation and impaired uterine lumen closure accompanied by a lack of primary decidualization These data support peri-implantation roles for leukocytes expressing the Ly49 receptor repertoire and may give insight into KIR-based regulation of human infertility.

Keywords: Decidual leukocytes; Ly49 gene family; Mouse implantation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Chorionic Villi / abnormalities*
  • Embryo Implantation / genetics*
  • Female
  • Gene Knockdown Techniques
  • Mice
  • Mice, Knockout
  • NK Cell Lectin-Like Receptor Subfamily A / genetics*
  • Pregnancy
  • Uterus / abnormalities*

Substances

  • NK Cell Lectin-Like Receptor Subfamily A