Involvement of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP-2, -7, -9) and their tissue inhibitors (TIMP-2, -3) in the chicken oviduct regression and recrudescence

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Abstract
This study was undertaken to examine mRNA and protein expression, localization of selected MMPs and their tissue inhibitors (TIMPs), and the activity of MMPs in all segments of the chicken oviduct (infundibulum, magnum, isthmus, shell gland, vagina) during a pause in egg laying induced by food deprivation. Control chickens (n = 18) were fed ad libitum, while experimental birds (n = 18) were fasted for 5 days, followed by being fed every other day, and then fed daily from day 10 onwards. Chickens were decapitated on day 6 (when the oviduct was regressed), day 13 (during oviduct recrudescence), and days 17–20 (oviduct rejuvenation) of the experiment. A pause in laying occurred between days 6 and 13 and resumption of laying before days 17–20. Real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blot revealed different expression of MMP-2, -7, -9 and TIMP-2 and -3 on mRNA and protein levels, respectively, as well as activity of MMP-2 and -9 by activity assay in the oviduct parts. Immunohistochemistry showed cell- and tissue-dependent localization of the examined members of the MMP system. Regression of the oviduct was accompanied predominantly by an increase in the relative expression of MMP-2, -7 and -9, and TIMP-2 and -3 mRNAs. The protein expression levels and localization of MMPs and TIMPs did not show pronounced changes during the examined period. During oviduct regression and recrudescence, elevated activity of MMP-2 and -9 was found. In summary, the results showing the stage of reproductive cycle-dependent changes as well as cell- and tissue-dependent differences in the expression of selected MMPs and TIMPs, and activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9 point to the significance that these molecules might be the local regulators of remodeling and functions of the hen oviduct.
Funding Information
  • National Science Center, Poland (Grant PRELUDIUM No. UMO-2012/07/N/NZ4/00165 dedica)

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