Role of chemokines in the endometrium and in embryo implantation

Abstract

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Chemokines are well known for their roles in the immune system; convincing evidence has emerged demonstrating a broader role for chemokines in the endometrium, particularly during embryo implantation. This review highlights the evidence on newly defined roles for chemokines in the endometrium during embryo implantation, with particular focus on those chemokines expressed by the endometrium. RECENT FINDINGS: The highly regulated temporal and spatial expression of chemokines in the endometrium leads not only to specific recruitment and activation of appropriate leucocytes but also coordinates the precisely orchestrated invasion of trophoblasts through the decidua and materna..