Changes in surface morphology, lectin staining, and gene expression of caprine endometrium exposed to estradiol, progesterone, and mifepristone in vitro

In mammalian females, the uterine tissue is highly responsive to steroid hormones and their antagonists.

In the present study, topographical, histoarchitectural, and gene expression changes in goat endometrium treated with estradiol, progesterone, and mifepristone for 24 h were investigated, in vitro.

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used for surface topographical analysis; WGA and DBA lectins were used for histochemical analysis; and qRT-PCR was done for the quantification of mRNA levels of MKI67 (marker of proliferation Ki67), ESR1 (estrogen receptor), PGR (progesterone receptor), CASP3 (caspase 3), and PDGFR-β (platelet derived growth factor receptor-β).

Few topographical alterations were observed in endometrial glands and the presence of scattered mucoid granules. A significant decline in WGA staining was reported only in the progesterone group. However, DBA binding was highest in the progesterone group and lowest in the mifepristone group. The expression of MKI67 gene declined to 79% in the mifepristone group, while in the estradiol and progesterone groups it elevated to 153% and 41%, respectively, than control; a similar trend was observed for PDGFR-β. The mRNA abundance for ESR1 declined to 59% in the progesterone group and 10% in the mifepristone group. However, a 100% increase occurred in the estradiol group. PGR expression followed the same trend as that of ESR1. CASP3 declined in the estradiol (50%) and progesterone (37%) group, but it showed a 67% increase in the mifepristone group.

We concluded that the caprine uterus undergoes dramatic alteration in structure and functions in response to different kinds of steroidal environments.