Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 4, 2026

Equine Enteric Glial Culture and Application to the Study of a Neural Inflammatory Mechanism in Equine Colic
Published on: October 4, 2024
Interleukin 12 on extracellular matrix-related factors and functional characteristics of equine endometrial
Magda Słyszewska1, Mafalda Guerreiro2, Agnieszka Sadowska1
1Team of Molecular Basis of Equine Reproduction, InLife Institute of Animal Reproduction and Food Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Olsztyn 10-683, Poland.
Context:
Tissue fibrosis is described as the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) components. This process is associated with inflammation, and the interaction between fibroblasts and immune cells plays a key role, driving the progression of fibrosis. Results of recent study suggest that interleukin (IL)-12 may play a role in the processes associated with the development of fibrosis. This proinflammatory cytokine is synthesized and released by macrophages, dendritic cells, and B cells.
Aims:
The objective of this study was to determine: (i) the expression of IL-12 and its receptor in different mare endometrial categories; (ii) the effects of IL-12 on the expression of ECM-related factors; and (iii) endometrial fibroblast functional characteristics.
Methods:
The mRNA expression of IL-12 subunits and IL-12 receptor was determined using quantiative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). The expression of ECM-related factors and functional characteristics in endometrial fibroblasts were determined using qPCR, Western blotting, zymography with bromodeoxyuridine and scratch assays.
Key Results:
IL-12Rβ2 mRNA expression was upregulated in category IIB endometrium during the mid-luteal phase compared with the follicular phase of the estrous cycle. The IL-12 treatment of endometrial fibroblasts increased mRNA expression of COL1A1, COL3A1, ACTA2, and LOXL2, as well as matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-9 and MMP3, with elevated pro-MMP2 and MMP9 gelatinolytic activity. Moreover, IL-12 reduced fibroblast proliferation after 96 h, without effect on migration.
Conclusions:
The findings indicate that IL-12 has a direct impact on the mRNA expression of fibrotic markers, MMP-2 and MMP-9 gelatinolytic activity and fibroblast proliferation.
Implications:
This suggests a potential role for IL-12 in the processes associated with ECM remodeling.
Related Concept Videos
The Extracellular Matrix
In order to maintain tissue organization, many animal cells are surrounded by structural molecules that make up the extracellular matrix (ECM). Together, the molecules in the ECM maintain the structural integrity of tissue as well as the remarkable specific properties of certain tissues.
Composition of the Extracellular Matrix
The extracellular matrix (ECM) is commonly composed of ground substance, a gel-like fluid, fibrous components, and many structurally and functionally diverse...
The Extracellular Matrix
Cell-matrix's Response to Mechanical Forces
Anchoring junctions mechanically attach a cell to the...
Fibronectins Connect Cells with ECM
Both proteoglycans and collagen are attached to fibronectin proteins, which, in turn, are attached to integrin proteins. These integrin proteins interact with transmembrane...
Introduction to Fibroblasts
Extracellular Matrix

