Differential gene expression analysis of human cumulus cells.

Objective: This study was performed to explore the possibility that each oocyte and its surrounding cumulus cells might have different genetic expression patterns that could affect human reproduction.

Methods: Differential gene expression analysis was performed for 10 clusters of cumulus cells obtained from 10 cumulus-oocyte complexes from 10 patients. Same procedures related to oocyte maturation, microinjection, and microarray analyses were performed for each group of cumulus cells.

Dilated Minute Chambers in Laryngeal Vocal Fold Polyps: Histopathological and Ultrastructural Features.

In Reinke's space of human vocal fold, type III collagen forms a three dimensional network and this contains numerous minute chambers in between these fibers. These compartments are occupied by glycosaminoglycans and glycoproteins. In laryngeal fold lesions, such as Reinke's edema and vocal fold polyps, proteoglycan (PG)/hyaluronic acid (HA) components of extracellular matrix increased.

Increased stem cell marker expressions during the peri-implantation period in the rat endometrium: constructive role of exogenous zinc and/or progesterone.

Background: The aim of this study is to determine the effects of zinc and/or progesterone via the expression of α v β 5 integrins and Vitronectins and embryonic stem cell markers during the peri-implantation period.

Methods: Four experimental groups were organized. All subjects were mated with males of the same strain to induce pregnancy; after 5 days, zinc and/or progesterone were administered.