The distribution of histochemically demonstrable 5′-nucleotidase activity in the uterus of mice around the time of nidation, is compared with those of specific and non-specific acid phosphatases, alkaline phosphatase, phosphorylase, and with deposition of glycogen. The sequences of changes in distribution were similar during normal (first pregnancy) or delayed (by lactation) implantation, or when implantation was induced in lactating mice by administration of hormones.
5′-Nucleotidase activity was located at the free border of the luminal epithelium and at surfaces of stromal cells and muscle fibres up to the time of implantation, and in non-decidualized areas after implantation, but disappeared from differentiated decidual cells. The disappearance of 5′-nucleotidase activity from decidual cells occurred at the time when their mitotic activity was waning and when alkaline phosphatase activity had appeared at their surfaces, and lagged slightly behind both glycogen deposition and increased phosphorylase activity in these cells. There was parallel distribution of phosphorylase activity and glycogen distribution within decidua.
At the time of implantation, a reaction appeared in stromal cells in the immediate vicinity of the blastocyst after incubation with either adenosine-5′-monophosphate or glycerophosphate at acid pH, and it spread in area during the next 24 h. It was believed to indicate activity of a non-specific acid hydrolase, possibly lysosomal.
In all uteri examined, epithelial cells of glands showed specific acid phosphatase, but no 5′-nucleotidase activity.
Journal of Endocrinology is committed to supporting researchers in demonstrating the impact of their articles published in the journal.
The two types of article metrics we measure are (i) more traditional full-text views and pdf downloads, and (ii) Altmetric data, which shows the wider impact of articles in a range of non-traditional sources, such as social media.
More information is on the Reasons to publish page.
Online ISSN: 1479-6805
Print ISSN: 0022-0795
Strengthening biomedical communities
to advance science and health
CONTACT US
Bioscientifica Ltd | Starling House | 1600 Bristol Parkway North | Bristol BS34 8YU | UK
Bioscientifica Ltd | Registered in England no 3190519
