The endometrium: basic aspects of a complex tissue

Abstract

This monograph reviews the orderly sequence of events that characterize the human endometrial cycle, the known key molecules and mechanisms involved during the proliferative and secretory phases, as well as the validation of the determinant processes of decidualization and the establishment of the window of implantation. A new look into old dogmas is delivered, and new challenges are posed based on contemporary and objective scientific and clinical evidence. This highly detailed narrative constitutes an in-depth academic work that presents original research, analysis, and arguments aimed to solve current dilemmas or to open the path for further analysis and debate. The understanding and development of new and robust experimental paradigms of genomics, proteomics, and transcriptomics has led to the development of novel high-throughput methodologies aimed directly at interrogating biomolecules, their cellular locations, and interactions, at previously unattainable levels. We remain enthusiastic that the information provided herein will become more and more significant not only as basic physiologic advances but importantly, critical from a clinical point of view, for improved infertility management, and perhaps with an impact on women’s health.