Evaluation of sialic acid and α-neuraminidase activity in normal and pathological endometrium

Summary

Endometrial biopsy samples from women with cystic hyperplasia or adenocarcinoma were analysed by biochemical procedures, to verify fluctuations in the protein-bound and lipid-bound sialic acid (PSA and LSA) content, and α-neuraminidase activity.

Comparing the values studied with those obtained in normal subjects, it was observed that PSA and LSA significantly decreased in both pathologies if values were compared with the proliferative phase of the menstrual cycle.

When values were related to the secretory phase, only LSA showed a significant decrease. α-Neuraminidase activity was unchanged in control and hyperplastic samples, but showed considerable increase in neoplastic endometrium.