[Role of heat shock proteins (Hsp) in human and mammalian fertilization and pregnancy. Part I].

The heat shock proteins (Hsp) are a family of highly-conservative multifunctional polypeptides which are found in all living organisms. Certain Hsp members are induced to synthesise as a response to cell stress, caused by change in the environment. Furthermore, Hsp are involved in apoptosis and serve as biomarker for cell damage. Hsp are expressed and play a role in the reproductive system of mammals. Different Hsp members have been detected in ovary and myometrium. There is a pattern of Hsp25 and Hsp70 expression in endometrium and fallopian tubes, which does not allow implantation in the tubes but provides endometrial receptivity for the blastocyst. There is marked difference in Hsp expression in the tubes of women with and without tubal pregnancy. Hsp members are also found in trophoblast and placenta. The expression remains unchanged in preterm and term placentas, but if altered, it may serve as a sign for placental pathology or preterm birth.