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Placenta growth factor and vascular endothelial growth factor are co-expressed during early embryonic development
M G Achen1, J M Gad, S A Stacker
1Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Victoria, Australia. achen@licre.ludwig.edu.au
Abstract:
We have used the polymerase chain reaction to identify mouse proteins similar in primary structure to the endothelial cell mitogen Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF). One amplified product encoded mouse Placenta Growth Factor (PIGF). The pattern of PIGF gene expression in mouse embryos was studied by in situ hybridization. Transcripts encoding mouse PIGF were abundant in trophoblastic giant cells associated with the parietal yolk sac at early stages of embryogenesis. VEGF transcripts were also detected in trophoblastic giant cells raising the possibility that these cells may secrete heterodimers consisting of one PIGF subunit and one VEGF subunit. The secretion of PIGF and VEGF by trophoblastic giant cells is likely to be the signal which initiates and co-ordinates vascularization in the deciduum and placenta during early embryogenesis.
Insights
Mouse Placenta Growth Factor (PIGF) and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) are expressed in early embryonic development. These factors secreted by trophoblastic giant cells likely initiate and coordinate placental vascularization.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) is a key endothelial cell mitogen.
- Identifying novel growth factors involved in embryonic development is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify mouse proteins structurally similar to VEGF.
- To investigate the expression pattern of mouse Placenta Growth Factor (PIGF) during embryogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to identify novel proteins.
- In situ hybridization was employed to study gene expression patterns.
Main Results:
- Mouse Placenta Growth Factor (PIGF) was identified.
- PIGF transcripts were found in trophoblastic giant cells of the parietal yolk sac.
- VEGF transcripts were also detected in these cells, suggesting PIGF/VEGF heterodimer secretion.
Conclusions:
- Trophoblastic giant cells secrete PIGF and VEGF during early embryogenesis.
- These secreted factors are likely essential for initiating and coordinating vascularization in the deciduum and placenta.