Telocytes are associated with uterine remodeling during pregnancy in Kyrgyz mares

The relationship between telocytes and the changes occurring in the morphometric structure of the uterus during pregnancy has not yet been sufficiently clarified. This study was conducted to evaluate the relationship between pregnancy-related morphometric changes in the uteri of Kyrgyz mares and telocyte counts. A total of 53 mares, both pregnant and non-pregnant, aged 2-6 months, were examined; uterine tissues were analyzed using light microscopy and immunohistochemical methods. In general, a positive relationship was found between gland density and telocyte count, while in non-pregnant mares, this relationship was found to be inversely and significantly correlated. A negative correlation between gland diameter and telocyte count was detected in many groups, particularly in the 5-month pregnancy group. Furthermore, a positive correlation was found between endometrial thickness and both myometrial and total telocyte counts in 6-month pregnant mares. Consequently, it is thought that telocytes are associated with structural changes in the uterus during pregnancy and may play an important role in the remodeling and functional adaptation of the uterus, particularly in the later stages of pregnancy.