Expression and function of interleukin-11 and its receptor [alpha] in the human endometrium

• Published in: Molecular human reproduction 2003-02, Vol.9 (2), p.75-75
• Main Authors: Karpovich, Natalia, Chobotova, Katya, Carver, Janet, Heath, John K, Barlow, David H, Mardon, Helen J
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 1360-9947; 1460-2407

The interleukin-11 (IL-11) receptor [alpha] has an important function in decidualization of mouse endometrial stroma but the function of IL-11 and its receptor in the human endometrium remains unknown. The mRNA for IL-11 and its receptor [alpha] in human endometrial tissue samples were analysed by semi-quantitative RT-PCR and RNase protection assays respectively. The proteins were detected in frozen endometrial tissue samples by immunofluorescence. The effect of heparin-binding epidermal growth factor (HB-EGF) on secretion of IL-11 by cultured endometrial stromal cells was assessed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The proliferative potential of IL-11 in endometrial stromal cells was assessed by [3H]thymidine uptake. IL-11 and its receptor [alpha] mRNAs and proteins were detected in the endometrium throughout the cycle. Distinct patterns of localization of the ligand and receptor were observed. HB-EGF induced IL-11 secretion by cultured stromal cells, and IL-11 induced [3H]thymidine uptake by these cells. Our data suggest that IL-11-receptor interactions may perform different functions in the human endometrium at different stages of the cycle, and that secretion of IL-11 is modulated by local growth factors.