Abstract
Scanning and transmission electron microscopy as well as light microscopy
of the human endometrial surface epithelium were compared in
10 samples taken from normal cycling women and 4 samples from menopausal
women.
The aim of this study was to compare the cyclic changes in the surface
epithleliwn of the human endometrium which reflect the functional cyclic
changes in the uterus. This may have a significance in relation to assisted
reproduction technique g and fertility.
The endometrial surface epithelium was composed of two cell types;
the ciliated cells and the microvilli bearing cells (non-ciliated cells). In the
early proliferative phase, the number of ciliated cells were less than the
non-ciliated cells. The ciliated cells showed crowded supranuclear mitochondria.
free ribosomes, Golgi and ciliary apparati. The non-ciliated
cells were covered by numerous microvilli, dense lysosomes, lipid droplets
and bundles of microfflaments. In the mid and late proliferative
phase, the ciliated cells increased and the non-ciliated cells showed subnuclear
mitochondria and glycogen particles. In the luteal phase, the
number of ciliated cells decreased and the non-ciliated cells displayed an
apocrirte type of secretory activity. The surface Lining secretory cells contained
both supra- and subnuclear aggregates of glycogen particles with
giant mitochondria. After the menopause, the surface epithelium became
fiat and showed both types of cells (ciliated and non-ciliated) with little
secretion. These changes were similar to changes previously noted in oviductal
epithelium. which may be a reflection of similar function and endocrine
behaviour. |
