Characterization of matrix displacement during embryo implantation

Abstract

Embryo implantation is a crucial step in mammalian reproduction. Mechanical forces play an important role in embryo development, but their specific role during implantation has not been established yet. In this work, we analyze the 4D time-lapse data of mouse and human embryos implanting in an in vitro set-up to understand the mechanisms embryos use to attach and embed in the matrix. We show that, for both species, mean deformation, strain energy, total force and contractility increase over time. We demonstrate that radial displacement prevails and that more collagen is translocated along the Z axis. Z-displacement is negative underneath the mouse embryos, however human embryos show positive and negative Z-displacement underneath the embryos.