Expression of activins and TGF beta 1 and beta 2 RNAs in early postimplantation mouse embryos and uterine decidua

Mech Dev. 1992 Feb;36(3):141-52. doi: 10.1016/0925-4773(92)90065-r.

Abstract

The expression of the mesoderm inducing factors, activins and TGF beta s, was characterized in 5 1/2-9 1/2 day mouse embryos and implantation sites by in situ hybridization. Activin beta A RNA was not detected within the embryo, but is expressed in nearby decidual cells from 5 to 7 days. Thus activin A could play a role within the embyro during gastrulation. Activin beta A is also expressed in more mesometrially located decidual cells from 6 to 9 1/2 days. Activin beta B and inhibin alpha RNAs were not detected, while a control tissue was highly positive. TGF beta 1 is expressed in the secondary decidual zone and in developing endothelial cells in the decidua and embryo. TGF beta 2 is expressed in the mesometrial decidua at 6 1/2 days and in the midline of the cranial neural plate.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Activins
  • Animals
  • Decidua / chemistry
  • Decidua / metabolism*
  • Ectoderm / chemistry
  • Ectoderm / metabolism
  • Embryonic Induction / genetics*
  • Endothelium, Vascular / chemistry
  • Endothelium, Vascular / metabolism
  • Female
  • Gene Expression Regulation
  • Gestational Age
  • Inhibins / genetics*
  • Inhibins / metabolism
  • Mice
  • Mice, Inbred Strains
  • Nucleic Acid Hybridization
  • RNA / metabolism*
  • Transforming Growth Factor beta / genetics*
  • Transforming Growth Factor beta / metabolism

Substances

  • Transforming Growth Factor beta
  • Activins
  • Inhibins
  • RNA