Expression and localization of transcription factor Ets-1 in the rat ovary during the estrous cycle and pregnancy

To examine the expression and localization of Ets-1 in the rat ovary during the estrous cycle and pregnancy, and to investigate its effects on ovarian function.

Prospective, randomized study.

Department of Physiology at Harbin Medical University.

Pubertal female Wistar rats.

Vaginal smears were taken daily from female rats to determine the stage of the estrous cycle. Pregnancies were achieved by caging female and male rats together overnight. Ovaries were collected from both cycling and pregnant rats for tissue sectioning and RNA and protein extractions.

Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, Western blot, in situ hybridization, and immunohistochemistry were performed to investigate the expression and localization of Ets-1 messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein in the rat ovary during the estrous cycle and pregnancy.

During the estrous cycle, the levels of Ets-1 mRNA and protein expression increased during the follicular phase, achieving their highest measurements at proestrus and lowest at metestrus. The expression of Ets-1 mRNA and protein fluctuated during pregnancy, increasing during early pregnancy, then decreasing during mid-pregnancy, and again increasing until parturition. Ets-1 mRNA and protein were present throughout the estrous cycle and pregnancy, principally localized in follicles of various sizes and in the corpus luteum.

Ets-1 may participate and play an important role in the regulation of follicular development, corpus luteum formation, maintenance, and regression.