TGF-β1 System in Leydig Cells. Part I : Effect of hCG and Progesterone

概要

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Transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) modulates male reproductive function. Genetically modified mice overexpressing α/β subunits of hCG (hCG+) show Leydig cell hyperplasia/hypertrophy at prepuberty that disappears as the mice approach adulthood. In this study we analyzed the gene expression of TGF-β1, its specific receptors, type II (TGF-βRII) and type I (activin receptor-like kinase 1 and 5: ALK1 and ALK5), and co-receptor endoglin (CD105) in purified Leydig cells from hCG+ and wild-type mice at 3 and 8 weeks of age and the occurrence of TGF-β1, ALK1 and ALK5 by immunohistochemistry. The expression of TGF-β1 was higher in hCG+ mice at both ages studied, and no changes were observed in TGF-βRII. ALK5 diminished with age in wild-type mice, whereas ALK1 decreased in hCG+ mice at 8 weeks of age. Endoglin expression showed a marked increase in 3-week-old hCG+ animals. In vitro incubation of Leydig cells from wild-type animals with hCG (10 IU/ml) increased TGF-β1 and ALK5 expression. Progesterone (10-6 M) induced endoglin expression. These studies provide novel evidence for differential gene and protein expression of ALK1 and ALK5 at different ages and endoglin expression and hormonal, in purified Leydig cells.
2010-08-01