Reproduction Abstracts

Introduction: Our previous 2D-DIGE studies of uterine fluid, identified differing isoform distributions of the serine protease inhibitor α-2-macroglobulin (A2M) resulting from post-translational modification (PTM’s), among fertile and infertile women. Carbohydrate side chains are a key PTM, often conferring recognition between protein partners, e.g. enzyme and inhibitor. Altered PTM’s may potentially change the interactions of A2M with proteases, effectively alt...