Collagen-binding α11 integrin expression in human myometrium and fibroids utilizing a novel RNA in situ probe.

OBJECTIVE

Integrin α11β1 is a collagen receptor specific to fibroblasts that regulates myofibroblast differentiation. We sought to determine whether α11β1 is expressed in myometrium and fibroids and whether tissue expression varies.

DESIGN

Comparison of α11 in human myometrium and fibroids using Western blot and RNA in situ hybridization.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Specimens were obtained from fibroid and myometrium. For Western blots, we used a polyclonal antibody to integrin α11. RNA in situ hybridization was performed using a custom RNA probe for α11 subunit.

RESULTS

Myometrium and fibroids express α11 integrin, with expression 2-fold greater in fibroids. The RNA probe offers a more precise method compared to Western blot using polyclonal human antibody.

CONCLUSIONS

The difference in expression in myometrium and fibroids suggests that α11 is involved in the formation of myofibroblasts and fibroid development.