The expression of fractalkine in the endometrium during the menstrual cycle

ObjectiveThe objective of the study was to evaluate the presence of fractalkine in the endometrium of the uterus and the change of fractalkine protein levels during menstrual cycle.MethodsTwelve samples of endometrium of the uterus were obtained from gynecological patients who underwent total hysterectomy. Western blotting, RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry were performed.ResultsFractalkine protein was detected in the endometrium of the uterus. Positive staining was confirmed in the epithelial cells and grandular cells in the endometrium. Expression levels of fractalkine protein and mRNA in the endometrium during secretory phase were significantly higher than those during proliferative phase. Immunohistochemical analysis using an anti-CX3CR1 antibody demonstrated positive staining in the glandular cells of the endometrium of the uterus.ConclusionFractalkine was expressed in the endometrium and its production was up-regulated during secretory phase.