Decidual cells, originating from the endometrial lining in the uterus, undergo significant transformations during pregnancy and are integral to its preparation and maintenance. Their conversion from endometrial fibroblast to a secretory phenotype, known as decidualization, occurs as a normal process in the menstrual cycle or in response to embryo implantation. With crucial roles in regulating maternal immune responses and placental development, decidual cells have a twofold function: preventing rejection of the conceptus by the mother's immune system and guiding placental development to avoid excessive trophoblast invasion leading to pre-eclampsia. During decidualization, these cells secrete proteins and growth factors supporting embryo implantation and sustaining early pregnancy. Furthermore, decidual cells modulate the activities of natural killer cells, macrophages, and T cells in the uterus, maintaining a balance of pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory conditions during pregnancy. (This extended description was generated by ChatGPT and reviewed by the CellGuide team, who added references, and by the CL editors, who approved it for inclusion in CL. It may contain information that applies only to some subtypes and species, and so should not be considered definitional.)

decidual cell

CL:2000002

A specialized, enlarged, connective tissue cell of the decidua with enlarged nucleus, dense membrane‐bound secretory granules and cytoplasmic accumulation of glycogen and lipid droplets. These cells develop by the transformation of endometrial stromal cells during decidualization.

decidua cell

decidual stromal cell

decidualized endometrial stromal cell

2014-02-20T23:06:41Z

BTO:0002770

BTO:0005756

NCIT:C32429

CL:2000002