TGF-β1 and estradiol modulate prostaglandin concentrations and related gene expression in equine endometrium during the follicular phase.

TGF-β1 and estradiol interaction promotes fibrotic prostaglandin imbalance in equine endometrium.

This study investigated how transforming growth factor-beta 1 (TGF-β1) and 17β-estradiol interact to regulate prostaglandin synthesis and receptor expression in equine endometrial tissue during the follicular phase. Using endometrial explants, researchers measured gene expression (qPCR) and prostaglandin concentrations (ELISA) at 24 and 48 hours. TGF-β1 and combined treatments reduced PTGS-2 mRNA at 24 hours, while estradiol and combination treatments downregulated PGES mRNA. PGF₂α concentrations increased with all treatments by 48 hours, whereas PGE₂ decreased in combined treatment groups. EP2/4 receptors were upregulated with combined treatment, while FP receptors decreased across all treatments. These findings demonstrate that TGF-β1 and estradiol synergistically shift the prostaglandin balance toward pro-fibrotic PGF₂α and away from anti-fibrotic PGE₂, potentially contributing to endometrosis pathogenesis through altered extracellular matrix remodeling and fibroblast activity.

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