Ghrelin and its receptor in sheep placenta
Author Information
Author(s): Joanne L Harrison, Adam Clare, Yvonne A Brown, Jacqueline M Wallace, Raymond P Aitken, Richard G Lea, David W Miller
Primary Institution: Murdoch University
Hypothesis
Ghrelin and its functional receptor, GHSR-1a, are present in tissues of the ovine placenta, and their expression is linked to the stage of development.
Conclusion
Ghrelin and GHSR-1a are both present in the ovine placenta, and ghrelin displays a developmentally-related pattern of expression.
Supporting Evidence
- Ghrelin was detected in ovine placentae at all gestational time points.
- Maximal levels of ghrelin expression were observed at gestational day 80.
- GHSR-1a was present in the fetal trophectoderm at all time points.
Takeaway
This study found that a hormone called ghrelin is present in sheep placentas and changes as the sheep grows, which might help the baby sheep develop.
Methodology
Immunohistochemical analysis of placental tissues collected from pregnant ewes at various gestational time points.
Limitations
The study is limited to ovine species and may not directly translate to other species.
Participant Demographics
Pregnant ewes of Suffolk x Dorset Horn x Greyface breed.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p < 0.001
Statistical Significance
p < 0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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