Regulation and function of LEFTY-A/EBAF in the human endometrium. mRNA expression during the menstrual cycle, control by progesterone, and effect on matrix metalloprotineases.

The human endometrium is a unique tissue that is periodically shed during menstruation. Although overall triggered by ovarian steroids withdrawal, menstrual induction of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and resulting tissue breakdown are focal responses, pointing to additional local modulators. LEFTY-A, a novel member of the transforming growth factor-beta family identified originally as an endometrial bleeding-associated factor (EBAF), is a candidate for this local control.