Immunohistochemical Localisation of Oestrogen and Epidermal Growth Factor Receptors of the Bitch Uterus in the Sexual Cycle

The localisation of oestrogen (ER) and epidermal growth factor receptors (EGFR) in the various cell types of the bitch uterine was determined. In this study, 23 adult, healthy crossbred bitches brought to the clinic for ovariohisterectomy were used. ER and EGFR positive staining was detected in all cell types of the uterus. A distinct staining was seen in the luminal and glandular epithelium; while stromal and myometrial cells showed weak or moderate staining. The endothelial and smooth muscle cells of the vessels in the endometrium and myometrium sometimes appeared positive. No staining was observed in the mesothelium. The results of this study suggested that ER and EGFR were expressed at various levels in different cell types of bitch uterus. In light of the previous studies, and data of the presented investigations, it may be necesssary to elicit the harmonious proliferation and differentiation of epithelial and stromal cells that are considered essential for the preparation of the uterus for implantation.