Menstruation: induction by matrix metalloproteinases and inflammatory cells

LA Salamonsen, DE Woolley - Journal of reproductive immunology, 1999 - Elsevier
Menstruation occurs at the end of a normal reproductive cycle in the human female,
following the fall in progesterone resulting from the demise of the corpus luteum. Current
data support a central role for the matrix metalloproteinases in menstruation but their focal
pattern of expression within peri-menstrual and menstrual endometrium suggests local
rather than hormonal regulation. This review emphasizes the similarities between
menstruation and an inflammatory process and examines the relationship between cells of …