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Cellular remodelling by apoptosis during porcine placentation.
A Cristofolini1, G Sanchis, M Moliva
1Área of Electron Microscopy, Faculty of Agronomy and Veterinary, National University of Río Cuarto, Río Cuarto, Argentina. alcristofolini@gmail.com
Reproduction in Domestic Animals = Zuchthygiene
|February 13, 2013
Summary
Apoptosis is crucial for pig pregnancy and placental development. This study reveals significant changes in apoptosis during different pregnancy stages, impacting cell remodeling and potentially productivity.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Cellular Biology
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Apoptosis regulates homeostasis and placental development in mammals.
- Cellular remodeling is vital for normal porcine pregnancy and productivity.
- Understanding pig placental physiology aids in enhancing agricultural value.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate cell morphology and apoptosis in porcine placentas across early, mid, and late pregnancy.
- To correlate apoptotic changes with gestational stages in pigs.
Main Methods:
- High-resolution light and transmission electron microscopy for cell morphology.
- TUNEL assay, apoptosis index (IAp), and c-FLIP immunohistochemistry for apoptosis assessment.
- Analysis of placental tissues from different stages of porcine pregnancy.
Main Results:
- Ultrastructural apoptotic features and apoptotic nuclei were observed in placental cells.
- The apoptosis index (IAp) in villi varied significantly: 9.34% (early), 0.82% (mid), and 23.85% (late) pregnancy.
- Differential activation of apoptotic pathways and potential endogenous inhibition of the extrinsic pathway (via c-FLIP) were noted.
Conclusions:
- Swine placentas exhibit distinct apoptotic pathway activation based on gestational period.
- Apoptosis plays a dynamic role in porcine placental development and cellular remodeling.
- Findings contribute to understanding pig reproductive physiology and improving productivity.
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