Protein expression profiles in bovine reproductive tissues

Abstract

The oviduct plays an key role in the reproduction of mammals, providing a microenvironment for oocyte maturation, sperm capacitation, fertilization, transport of gametes and early embryo development. To develop these functions the contraction and relaxation movements of the oviduct are essential. Two systems are well known for the control of these movements in the oviduct: vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and its receptors, as well the Angiotensin II system (Ang II). The expression of genes of these systems (VEGF; receptors: FLK-1 and FLT-1; AngII receptor: ATGR2) were investigated and quantified in oviducts of Nelore cows submitted or not to ovarian superstimulatory. We found an increase on ATGR2 expression in the isthmus of cows submitted to ovarian superstimulatory. Thus, the investigation of protein expression from oviduct and others ovarian tissues to increase the understanding of female reproductive physiology shows very interesting to gain insight about the results obtained at present moment. (AU)