Effects of pregnancy on systemic gene expression in domestic ruminants /by Craig Gifford.

880-01Using microarray analysis, a novel gene, receptor transporter protein-4 (RTP4), was identified as being up-regulated in pregnant cows. Using a sheep model, RTP4 was cloned and expression was characterized in PBL, endometrium, corpus luteum (CL), and in cultured glandular epithelial cells. Northern blot analysis revealed an expected 1.6 kB mRNA and an unexpected 2.6 kB mRNA. In endometria, PBL, and CL, RTP4 mRNA levels in cyclic ewes remained low, whereas RTP4 mRNA increased in pregnant ewes. Like most other ISGs, RTP4 mRNA was located in the glandular epithelium, and stratum compactum and caruncular stroma. Treatment of ovine glandular epithelial cells with IFNT increased RTP4 levels. These results indicate that RTP4 mRNA levels are induced in the ovine endometrium, PBL, and CL by IFNT during early pregnancy. These studies clearly show that a systemic response (PBL and CL) occurs during early pregnancy in domestic ruminants.Thesis (Ph. D., Animal Physiology)--University of Idaho, May 2008