Cloning and expression of progesterone receptor isoforms A and B in bovine corpus luteum

Progesterone (P4) affects a cell through its nuclear receptor (PGR), which has two main isoforms: A (PGRA) and B (PGRB). A partial section of previously unknown PGRB cDNA from cattle was cloned. Next, mRNA and protein levels for these two isoforms in corpora lutea (CL) collected during different stages of the oestrous cycle and pregnancy were determined. The PGRB mRNA level was highest on Days 2-5 of the oestrous cycle, decreased over the next few days (P<0.01) and increased again slightly on Days 17-20 (P<0.05). During pregnancy, PGRB mRNA was at its lowest level during Weeks 3-5 (P<0.01) and highest during Weeks 6-12 (P<0.01). The profile of PGRA mRNA levels was similar to that of PGRB throughout the oestrous cycle. The PGRA protein level was highest on Days 2-10 of the oestrous cycle, decreased continuously to its lowest concentration on Days 17-20 (P<0.01) and during Weeks 3-5 of pregnancy (P>0.05) and increased during Weeks 6-12 (P<0.05). PGRB protein concentration followed a similar pattern but at a markedly lower level. Both PGRA and PGRB isoforms are involved in the regulation of P4 action, especially in the newly formed CL and developed CL in the first trimester of pregnancy. These data suggest that the variable expression of these isoforms during the oestrous cycle may depend on the influence of P4.