Related Experiment Videos
Proteinase-activated receptors in ovine cervical function.
Sharon E Mitchell1, John J Robinson, Margaret E King
1Peripheral and CNS Signalling Group, The Rowett Research Institute, Aberdeen, UK.
Reproduction, Fertility, and Development
|December 21, 2005
Summary
Inflammation, involving interleukin-8 (IL-8), is crucial in sheep cervix. Proteinase-activated receptors (PAR)-1 and PAR-2 are expressed at oestrus, offering potential targets to improve conception rates in synchronised ewes.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Immunology
- Veterinary science
Background:
- Cervical inflammation, indicated by interleukin-8 (IL-8), is vital for sheep parturition and the non-pregnant cervix during oestrus.
- Artificially induced ovulation in ewes reduces IL-8 expression, correlating with lower conception rates in synchronised ewes, suggesting an anti-inflammatory effect.
- Hormonal synchronisation of oestrus may inhibit necessary inflammation, impacting fertility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of proteinase-activated receptor (PAR)-1 and PAR-2 in the ovine cervix.
- To identify potential pro-inflammatory agents to counteract the anti-inflammatory effects of hormonal oestrus synchronisation.
- To determine the expression patterns of PAR-1 and PAR-2 throughout the oestrous cycle and in response to synchronisation protocols.
Main Methods:
- Quantitative in situ hybridisation using ovine-specific probes for PAR-1 and PAR-2.
- Localization and measurement of PAR-1 and PAR-2 receptor expression in the ovine cervix.
- Comparison of receptor expression between naturally cycling and hormonally synchronised ewes.
Main Results:
- Both PAR-1 and PAR-2 receptors are expressed in the ovine cervical luminal epithelium, with peak expression at oestrus.
- PAR-2 gene expression at oestrus was approximately 30% higher than PAR-1.
- Hormonal synchronisation (progesterone sponge or prostaglandin F2) did not inhibit PAR-1 or PAR-2 expression; progesterone synchronisation increased PAR-2 expression, and both protocols increased expression during the luteal phase.
Conclusions:
- PAR-1 and PAR-2 are present in the ovine cervix and their expression is modulated during the oestrous cycle.
- Hormonal synchronisation protocols do not suppress PAR-1 and PAR-2 expression and may even enhance it.
- Agonists targeting PAR-1 and PAR-2 represent potential therapeutic agents to restore or enhance cervical inflammation, potentially improving fertility in synchronised ewes.