As a first step we characterized the intracellular morphology of decidualcells.
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Results: Annexin V was found on the cell membrane and in the cytoplasm of the decidualcells and stroma.
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In the mouse, decidualcells differentiate from uterine stromal cells in response to steroid hormones and signals arising from the embryo.
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Additionally, GATA2 continues to be expressed in the decidualized stroma throughout early pregnancy indicating a role in the maintenance of decidualcells.
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We observed the successful differentiation of stroma into functional decidualcells, determined by morphology as well as biochemically as measured by increased production of prolactin.
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Decidualcells are crucially involved in creating the intrauterine environment conducive to embryonic development.