Study of Fibronectin 1 Variants in Bovine Embryos
Author Information
Author(s): Goossens Karen, Van Soom Ann, Van Zeveren Alex, Favoreel Herman, Peelman Luc J
Primary Institution: Ghent University
Hypothesis
The embryonic FN1 matrix, formed at the onset of blastocyst formation, may have the adhesive property to link cells together and to provide a substrate for cell layer migration.
Conclusion
The existence of a new FN1 transcript variant, specifically expressed in morulae and blastocysts, strengthens the idea that FN1 is involved in the process of compaction and blastocyst formation.
Supporting Evidence
- Two new FN1 transcript variants were identified, one expressed in bovine preimplantation embryos and the other in cumulus cells.
- Integrin expression analysis identified several integrin subunits with RNA expression patterns similar to FN1.
- Significant differences in RNA expression were found between in vivo and in vitro produced embryos.
Takeaway
This study found new forms of a protein called FN1 in early bovine embryos, which might help the cells stick together and move around as the embryo develops.
Methodology
RT-qPCR was used to quantify FN1 splice variants in oocytes, embryos, cumulus cells, and adult tissues, followed by RNA expression analysis of integrins as candidate FN1 receptors.
Limitations
The study could not confirm complete co-localization between FN1 and selected integrin alpha subunits.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.0262
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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