Human decidual stromal cells secrete soluble pro-apoptotic factors during decidualization in a cAMP-dependent manner

Abstract

Decidualization triggers the secretion of soluble factors that induce apoptosis in DSC. The differentiation and apoptosis of DSC during decidualization of the receptive decidua are crucial processes for the controlled invasion of trophoblasts in normal pregnancy. Most DSC regress in a time-dependent manner, and their removal is important to provide space for the embryo to grow. However, the mechanism that controls DSC death is poorly understood. DSCs were resistant to a variety of apoptosis-inducing substances. Nevertheless, DSC underwent apoptosis during decidualization in culture, withcAMPbeing essential for both apoptosis and differentiation. In addition, culture supernatants from decidualizedDSCinduced apoptosis in undifferentiatedDSC, although paradoxically these supernatants decreased the spontaneous apoptosis of decidual lymphocytes. Exogenously added PRLdid not induce apoptosis inDSCand an antibody that neutralized the PRLreceptor did not decrease the apoptosis induced by supernatants.