Prokineticin 1 is a novel factor regulating porcine corpus luteum function

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Biology
• Endocrinology
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Prokineticin 1 (PROK1) is a secreted factor with diverse roles, but its function in the corpus luteum (CL) during pregnancy is unknown.
• The CL is essential for maintaining pregnancy through steroidogenesis and luteal cell survival.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the role of PROK1 in regulating porcine CL function during pregnancy.
• To examine PROK1's effects on steroidogenesis, luteal cell apoptosis/viability, and angiogenesis.

Main Methods:

• Quantitative analysis of PROK1 and its receptor (PROKR1, PROKR2) mRNA and protein expression in porcine CL during pregnancy and estrous cycle.
• In vitro assessment of PROK1's impact on progesterone synthesis, luteal cell apoptosis and viability, and angiogenesis markers (angiogenin, VEGFA).

Main Results:

• PROK1 expression increased during early pregnancy, peaking on Day 14, and was higher than during the estrous cycle.
• PROK1, via PROKR1, stimulated progesterone synthesis and secretion.
• PROK1 signaling reduced luteal cell apoptosis, enhanced cell viability, and promoted angiogenesis by increasing capillary-like structure formation and VEGFA/angiogenin expression.

Conclusions:

• PROK1 plays a significant role in maintaining porcine CL function during early pregnancy and the mid-luteal phase.
• PROK1-PROKR1 signaling is critical for regulating steroidogenesis, luteal cell survival, and angiogenesis, supporting successful pregnancy.