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Theca-derived BMP4 and BMP7 down-regulate connexin43 expression and decrease gap junction intercellular communication
Hsun-Ming Chang1, Jung-Chien Cheng, Peter C K Leung
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Child and Family Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Room 317, 950 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
Context:
Connexin43 (Cx43)-coupled gap junctions in granulosa cells play important roles in follicular and oocyte development and may be modulated by theca cell-derived bone morphogenic protein (BMP) 4 and BMP7.
Objective:
The aim of this study was to examine the effects of BMP4 and BMP7 on Cx43 expression in human granulosa cells and its potential mediation by the Smad-dependent pathway.
Design:
An immortalized human granulosa (SVOG) cell was used to investigate Cx43 expression and gap junction intercellular communication (GJIC) activity after exposure to BMP4 and BMP7. A BMP type I inhibitor, dorsomorphin, and small interfering RNAs targeting Smad4 were used to verify the specificity of the effects.
Setting:
The study was conducted in an academic center.
Main Outcome Measures:
Extracts were prepared from cultured cells, the Cx43 mRNA levels were examined using RT-quantitative real-time PCR, and the levels of Cx43 protein and phosphorylated Smad1/5/8 were assayed using Western blot analyses. GJIC activities between SVOG cells were evaluated using a scrape loading and dye transfer assay.
Results:
Treatment with BMP4 and BMP7 significantly decreased Cx43 mRNA and protein levels, as well as GJIC activities. These suppressive effects were attenuated by cotreatment with the BMP type I receptor inhibitor dorsomorphin. Furthermore, Smad4 knockdown reversed the effects of BMP4 and BMP7 on Cx43 expression.
Conclusion:
Theca cell-derived BMP4 and BMP7 down-regulate Cx43 expression and decrease GJIC activity in human granulosa cells. Our findings indicate that this biological effect is most likely mediated by a Smad-dependent pathway.
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