Uterus: Growth factors and cytokines

Physiology of the mammalian uterus is maintained by a variety of cytokines and growth factors. Many of these factors are expressed in response to ovarian steroid hormones in uterine epithelial and stromal cells, and act in a paracrine fashion to maintain homeostasis of this tissue during the reproductive cycle. These factors are also responsible for preparing the uterine environment for successful establishment of pregnancy. Disruption of the uterine stromal-epithelial crosstalk involving cytokines and growth factors often results in altered uterine physiology, leading to pathological conditions or unsuccessful pregnancy outcomes. An in depth understanding of the role of these myriad cytokines and growth factors has helped to advance the understanding of mechanisms underlying uterine physiology and reproductive medicine.