Immunohistochemical evaluation of the equine endometrium during the oestrous cycle.

This study examines changes in the presence and types of immunoglobulins in the endometrium of mares throughout their estrous cycle. The researchers found that immunoglobulins of the classes A, M, G(Fc) and G(T) were present in the equine endometrium without a clear cyclical pattern.

Methodology

• The researchers conducted endometrial biopsies on four mares at various stages of the estrous cycle. The stages were determined by rectal palpation, ultrasonography, and plasma progesterone determination. The samples were fixed with formalin for evaluation.
• The immunoglobulins (IgA, IgM, IgG(Fc), and IgG(T)) in the samples were detected using a peroxidase anti-peroxidase technique.

Findings

• The researchers found immunoglobulins of all four classes evaluated in every biopsy. The IgA- and IgG(Fc)-containing cells were generally more numerous.
• They did not observe a cyclical trend in the number of immunoglobulin-containing cells for any isotype.
• The researchers reported that the four classes of immunoglobulins observed were frequently found in luminal epithelium, glandular epithelium, secretions, and interstitium.

Conclusion

• From this study focusing on a select number of mares, it appears that the equine endometrium contains free and intracellular immunoglobulins of the classes A, M, G(Fc), and G(T), with no apparent cyclical fluctuation. This could help further understanding of the immune system functioning in the equine endometrium.