Amine oxidase histochemistry of the human uterus during the menstrual cycle

Abstract
The enzymes monoamine oxidase A (MAO A), monoamine oxidase B (MAO B) and benzylamine oxidase (BzAO) have been localized histochemically in the human uterus during various phases of the menstrual cycle. The results show a large increase in MAO A activity in the endometrial gland cells in the secretory phase of the cycle. MAO B activity was found in both endometrium and myometrium but did not show a cyclical variation in activity. BzAO was localized primarily in the tunica media of the myometrial blood vessels. These observations have been supported by parallel biochemical assays.