Hormonal and cytokine regulation of early implantation

Implantation of the blastocyst into the endometrium is a delicately controlled process and a prerequisite for the furtherance of the mammalian species. A complex network of molecules is involved in preparing both the endometrium and blastocyst for a successful interaction. However, the exact molecular steps are poorly understood. Studies so far have shown that disruption of certain pathways results in fertility defects. Impaired implantation is currently considered to be the most important limiting factor for the establishment of viable pregnancies in assisted reproduction. It is expected that elucidating the molecular background of the process will enable accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of infertility.