National Institute of Animal Health (NIAH)

Topics in Animal Health Research 2013

19. Oestrous cycle- and early pregnancy-related differences in the expression of tumour necrosis factor-α, its receptors, and receptor-associated factor 2 in the porcine corpus luteum

Japanese

The corpus luteum (CL) is important for the establishment and maintenance of normal pregnancy. Tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α is one of the important cytokines shown to regulate CL function, such as luteal development and luteal regression, through its receptors (TNF-RI and TNF-RII). TNF receptor-associated factor 2 (TRAF2) is an important effector molecule of TNF signalling, which plays a critical role in cell survival and proliferation through TNF-RI or TNF-RII. The aim of this study was to investigate the gene and protein expression of TNF-α, TNF-RI, TNF-RII, and TRAF2 and the morphological features of the porcine CL on Days 13 and 17 (Day 0 = last day of oestrus) of the oestrous cycle or of early pregnancy. Gene expression of TNF-α, TNF-RI, TNF-RII, and TRAF2 was unaffected by the day and reproductive status. The TNF-α concentration in the CL was significantly greater on Day 17 of pregnancy than on Day 13 of pregnancy and on Day 17 of the oestrous cycle. The TNF-RI protein level in the CL was higher on Days 13 and 17 of pregnancy than of the oestrous cycle, with significant increase seen on Day 17 than on Day 13 of pregnancy. TRAF2 protein levels in the CL were higher on Days 13 and 17 of pregnancy, than during oestrous. Apoptotic bodies in the CL were scarcely observed between Days 13 and 17 of pregnancy. Thus, the TNF-α survival pathway via TNF-RI– and TNF-RII–mediated signalling and the TRAF2 protein might contribute to porcine CL maintenance during early pregnancy.
(Pathology and Physiopathology Research Division)

References:

Suzuki C. et al (2013) Veterinary Research Communications 38:1-10

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