Authors: Herrler, A.; Krusche, C.A.; Müller-Schöttle, F.; Beier, H.M.

Source: Human Reproduction, Volume 19, Number 12, December 2004 , pp. 2730-2737(8)

Publisher: Oxford University Press

Abstract:

BACKGROUND: Evidence is emerging that haptoglobin, an acute phase protein with immunomodulatory properties, is expressed by the endometrium of various species. The present study describes an in-depth investigation of haptoglobin expression and release in the rabbit reproductive tract and in preimplantation embryos. METHODS: The full-length cDNA sequence of rabbit haptoglobin was determined by rapid amplification of cDNA ends PCR. Haptoglobin expression was studied in the oviductal ampull, and isthmus, endometrium and embryos from the time of ovulation up to adhesion. These results were completed by western blot analysis of reproductive tract secretions and embryonic tissues. RESULTS: cDNA sequencing showed a high homology between rabbit and human haptoglobin (84.1%). In oviductal tissues haptoglobin mRNA is clearly expressed from 6 h post-conception (p.c.) to day 3, and in the uterus on days 5 and 6. In the oviductal fluid highest haptoglobin protein content was found between 6 h p.c and day 2, and in the uterine fluid on days 5 and 6 p.c. Embryos do not express haptoglobin mRNA during preimplantation development. However, considerable amounts of maternal haptoglobin protein were detected in the blastocyst coverings and in blastocyst fluid. CONCLUSIONS: Already during periovulatory time and oviductal passage, high amounts of haptoglobin are present in the microenvironment surrounding the oocyte/embryo. Two days before implantation, again, high haptoglobin levels are detectable in the embryo's environment. The incorporation of haptoglobin into the extra-embryonic matrix may be of particular functional significance.

Keywords: amino acid sequence; embryo; haptoglobin; oviduct; uterus

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/humrep/deh517

Affiliations: 1: To whom correspondence should be addressed., Email: aherrler@ukaachen.de

Publication date: 2004-12-01

More about this publication?

• Human Reproduction features full-length, peer-reviewed papers reporting original research, clinical case histories, as well as opinions and debates on topical issues. Papers published cover the scientific and medical aspects of reproductive physiology and pathology, endocrinology, andrology, gonad function, gametogenesis, fertilization, embryo development, implantation, pregnancy, genetics, genetic diagnosis, oncology, infectious disease, surgery, contraception, infertility treatment, psychology, ethics and social issues. The highest scientific and editorial standard is maintained throughout the journal along with a rapid rate of publication.

Related content

• In this: publication
• By this: publisher
• In this Subject: Anatomy & Physiology ,  Obstetrics & Gynecology
• By this author: Herrler, A. ;  Krusche, C.A. ;  Müller-Schöttle, F. ;  Beier, H.M.

Website © Publishing Technology. Article copyright remains with the publisher, society or author(s) as specified within the article.

• Terms and conditions
• Privacy policy
• Information for advertisers