Transplacental Transmission of Macromolecules from Maternal to Foetal Compartments in the Gravid Sheep Uterus

The developing concepts (embryo-foetus and associated placental membranes) maternal uterus which must be established during the peri-implantation period for pregnancy, recognition, signaling, implantation, regulation of gene expression by uterine epithelial and stromal cells, placentation and exchange of nutrients and gases. The uterus provide a microenvironment in which molecules secreted by uterine epithelial or transported into the uterine lumen represent histotrophrequired for growth and development of the conceptual and receptivity of the uterus to implantation. Gravid uteri of sheep were collected from the local abattoir. Crown rump length of foetuses was measured to calculate the age of the foetus as well as to asses the stage of pregnancy. Samples from the uterus were processed and sections of 5 micron thickness were cut for standard staining techniques. Aggregates of Brown to black pigments were seen mostly in the uterine endometrium particularly in the glandular area. In addition fine granules were also seen just beneath the uterine epithelium. Histological features of pigment cells were observed and discussed.