Mesenchymal-to-epithelial transition of perivascular cells contributes to endometrial re-epithelialization.

ABSTRACT: Endometrial regeneration is essential for reproductive cycles and pregnancies, allowing the endometrium to undergo estrogen-driven repair, growth, and renewal after menstruation and parturition. Epithelial cells lining the uterine cavity undergo apoptosis during estrous cycles, and remnant cells can quickly restore this lining through a process known as re-epithelialization. It is presumed that adult stem/progenitor cells in the uterine stroma also contribute to re-epithelialization. However, the specific cell type(s) and the underlying mechanisms have not been determined. Herein, we use genetic lineage tracing assays in mice to identify Nestin⁺ perivascular cells as active contributors to re-epithelialization. Notch signaling maintains Nestin⁺ perivascular cells in a

SUBMITTER: Li SY 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12630900 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature