The 5alpha-reductase-mediated progesterone metabolism and its involvement in the decidualization of human endometrial stromal cells

Objective: Decidualization of human endometrial stromal cells (ESC) accompanied by the production of IGF-binding protein (IGFBP) 1 and prolactin is indispensable for the establishment and maintenance of human pregnancy. Progesterone (P4) and cAMP are the predominant inducers of decidualization in human ESC. It has been reported that dihydrotestosterone produced by ESC via the action of 5a-reductase stimulates the decidual response. Although P4 is metabolized by 5a-reductase to allopregnanolone in the mammalian brain, the enzyme-mediated P4 metabolism in ESC have not been determined.

Source: Placenta - November 1, 2017 Category: Reproduction Medicine Authors: Mikihiro Yoshie Source Type: research