Analysis of the uterine flush fluid proteome of healthy mares and mares with endometritis or fibrotic endometrial degeneration.

The research focuses on the study of differences in the proteome of uterine flush fluid among healthy mares, mares with endometritis and those with fibrotic endometrial degeneration. The findings offer insights into unique proteins that could potentially serve as indicators of uterine health and disease.

Methods

• The researchers collected uterine flush fluid samples from both healthy mares and those with endometritis or FED.
• The samples came from different phases of the estrous cycle, specifically, estrus and dioestrus.
• Using a labelling-free liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry approach, the researchers conducted a proteomic analysis of the samples.

Results

• The study identified 216 proteins during estrus. Among these, 127 were common across all study groups. Healthy mares had one singular protein, while mares with endometritis and FED had 47 and 4 exclusive proteins respectively.
• During the phase of dioestrus, the researchers identified a total of 188 proteins. Of these, 113 proteins were shared among healthy mares and those with endometritis. Healthy mares presented eight exclusive proteins and mares with endometritis had 67 distinct proteins.

Quantitative Analysis and Conclusions

• A quantitative analysis was performed to compare the abundance of different protein groups during estrus among the three groups and between healthy mares and mares with endometritis during dioestrus.
• The analysis revealed significant differences in the presence and abundance of certain proteins among the different study groups, highlighting potential biomarkers for uterine health and disease.
• This research forms a basis for future evaluation of specific proteins that may play critical roles in maintaining pregnancy and indicating states of uterine health or disease.