Clarification of mechanisms regulating early embryo-uterine interactions in cattle

2016 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 26450379
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (C)
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Section: 一般
• Research Field: Animal production science
• Research Institution: Obihiro University of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine
• Principal Investigator: Acosta Tomas J. 帯広畜産大学, 畜産フィールド科学センター, 准教授 (80379718)
• Project Period (FY): 2014-04-01 – 2017-03-31
• Keywords: Bovine / Embryo / Endometrium / Epidermal Growth Factor / Prostaglandin / Implantation

Outline of Final Research Achievements

The understanding of the interaction between the early embryos and uterine environment is crucial to reduce the embryonic loss in domestic animals. The present research revealed the mechanisms of action of embryonic and uterine products on bovine uterus during implantations and their interactions.
1) We found that epidermal growth factor (EGF) is mainly produced by uterine luminal cells but not by bovine embryos. 2) EGF protein in bovine endometrium was higher around the time of implantation compared with other luteal stages. 3) Cultured endometrial epithelial cells produce more EGF than endometrial stromal cells. 4) EGF has the ability to increase luteolytic (prostaglandin F2alpha) and luteotropic (prostaglandin E2) in both epithelial and stromal cells. 5) Endometrium contains more EGF around the time of implantation. This growth factor stimulates the production of interferon-tau, the pregnancy recognition factor in cattle, to ensure the establishment of pregnancy.

Free Research Field

家畜生産科学