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Cytokines and embryo/endometrial interactions

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  03 June 2009

Andrew Sharkey
Andrew Sharkey*
Affiliation:
University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
*
Reproductive Molecular Research Group, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Cambridge, Rosie Maternity Hospital, Robinson Way, Cambridge CB2 2SW, UK.
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Extract

Experimental animal models have shown that the in vitro embryo culture involved in many treatments for infertility results in a dramatic reduction in embryo viability. Recent advances in methodology such as RT-PCR for localization and quantitation of cytokines and their receptors, are revealing the role that this group of growth factors plays in the basic physiology of embryo development and the process of implantation itself. These studies offer the likelihood of dramatically improving in vitro embryo culture in humans and other species by supplementation of culture medium with growth factors or antagonists to improve embryo viability and hence implantation rates.

Type
Articles
Information
Reproductive Medicine Review , Volume 4 , Issue 2 , July 1995 , pp. 87 - 100
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1995

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