Connexin43 and gap junction content in the porcine myometrium during the estrous cycle

The amount of the gap junction protein Connexin43 in myometrium from pig uteri at specific stages of the estrous cycle was studied using 2 different immunochemical methods. Western blot analysis showed the presence of Connexin43 protein in 43 and 47 kD bands at all stages of the cycle. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated only a few small junctional complexes in the myometrium during the luteal phase of the cycle. Gap junctions appeared to increase both in number and size during proestrus and estrus.