Expression and localisation of thioredoxin in mouse reproductive tissues during the oestrous cycle

Thioredoxin expression within the reproductive tissues of the female mouse was analysed during the oestrous cycle stages of dioestrus, oestrus and metoestrus by Western blot analyses and immunocytochemistry. From Western blot analyses the expression of thioredoxin was found to be increased in oestrus compared to dioestrus and metoestrus. Localisation of thioredoxin within the reproductive organs of the mouse during the oestrous cycle has shown that the expression of thioredoxin is specific for distinct areas within the reproductive organs. These areas are the stratified squamous epithelium of the vagina, the simple columnar epithelium and the uterine glands of the uterus, the ciliated columnar epithelium of the oviduct, the corpus lutea, the interstitial cells and the secondary follicles of the ovary. The discrete cellular localisation and oestrous dependence of thioredoxin expression are suggestive of specific roles in various reproductive processes.