Chondromodulin-I is Expressed in the Fetomaternal Interface, Decidua, and Functions as a Possible Inhibitor of Fetal Trophoblast Invasion

摘要

The successful formation of fetomaternal interface requires highly controlled tissue remodeling of the uterus, which is initiated by the implantation of an embryo. After the implantation, fetal trophoblasts that arise from trophectoderm, the outer layer of the blastocyst, differentiate into invasive trophoblast giant cells (TGCs). TGCs produce a number of proteinases including matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) and urokinase-type plas-minogen activator to facilitate the breakdown and invasion of the uterine stroma, and form contacts with the maternal blood supply that leads to the establishment of the placenta. In response to the invasion, uterine stroma differentiates into decidua, a thick cohesive tissue, to make physical and chemical barriers against invading TGCs. Although these barriers have