Progesterone receptor isoforms profile, modulate matrix metalloproteinase 2 expression in the decidua

Abstract

Objective: This study explores the effect of progesterone and the role of the progesterone receptor (PR) profile on matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 expression in human decidua. Study Design Zymography was conducted for MMP secretion. Semiquantitative reverse transcriptase\u96polymerase chain reaction was performed to examine MMP2 transcripts. Progesterone\u92s effect on the MMP2 promoter was determined testing luciferase activity. The role of PR isoform on MMP2 expression was studied using human PR complementary DNA encoding PR isoforms PRA, PRB, or PRC. Results: In decidua with overexpressed PRB, progesterone decreased MMP2 expression. Progesterone increased pro-MMP2 expression in decidua with overexpressed PRA or PRC. MMP2 promoter activity was unchanged following transfection with human PRA in the absence or presence of progesterone. Decreased promoter activity was observed following transfection with human PRB or human PRC. Progesterone increased promoter activity with overexpressed human PRC. Conclusion: Progesterone hampers MMP2 expression in the decidua via PRB. PRA has a repressive effect on PRB, whereas PRC seems to have a repressive effect on both PRA and PRB