Researchers at the University of Montreal have identified a protein in the liver that plays a very important role in pregnancy and the human menstrual cycle, the findings were published in the journal Nature Medicine.

The team found that genetically engineered mice that weren’t able to produce the liver receptor “homolog-1 (Lrh-1) molecule” didn’t have the uterine conditions necessary for a successful pregnancy. The lack of Lrh-1 led to the development of defective placentas.

Lhr-1 is found in the human uterus and is vital for early gestational processes.

Lead author Bruce Murphy, of the university’s Animal Reproduction Research Centre, said:

“We previously showed that Lrh-1 is essential for ovulation. Our newest studies have revealed that it plays an important role in the uterus, raising the possibility that Lrh-1 deficiency contributes to human gestational failure.”

He added:

“We worked with mice before looking at human tissues. I believe it premature to propose determination of Lrh-1 in uterine biopsies as a diagnostic tool, but we are working on determining the receptor’s pattern of expression across the menstrual cycle.”

In addition, the researchers examined the effectiveness of hormone replacement therapy in restoring regular uterine functions in the mice.

Murphy said that “progesterone did not make a difference. Although hormone therapy allowed for the embryos to implant, we saw problems with the lining in the uterus, compromised formation of the placenta, fetal growth retardation and fetal death.”

Therapeutic intervention may be possible, though, as there are currently new Lrh-1 agonists and antagonists in clinical trials to treat hepatic consequences of type II diabetes.

The study was funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research.

Written by Joseph Nordqvist