Monitoring Vegfr2 Gene Activity in Mice During Pregnancy
Author Information
Author(s): Jonathan M Greene, Chad W Dunaway, Susan D Bowers, Brian J Rude, Jean M Feugang, Peter L Ryan
Primary Institution: Mississippi State University
Hypothesis
The study aims to determine the feasibility of monitoring fetoplacental Vegfr2 gene activity non-invasively using a Vegfr2-luc reporter transgenic mouse and bioluminescent imaging.
Conclusion
The study demonstrates that fetoplacental Vegfr2 gene activity can be monitored longitudinally using bioluminescent imaging during the latter third of gestation.
Supporting Evidence
- Fetoplacental Vegfr2 gene activity was detected as light emissions beginning on GD 12 of gestation.
- Light emissions increased throughout the imaging period, indicating increased Vegfr2 activity.
- A decline in light emissions was associated with a poor pregnancy outcome in one case.
Takeaway
Scientists can watch how a specific gene related to blood vessel growth works in pregnant mice without hurting them, helping us understand pregnancy better.
Methodology
The study used bioluminescent imaging to monitor Vegfr2 gene activity in pregnant mice from gestational day 12 to 18.
Limitations
The study did not assess the effects of isoflurane anesthesia on fetal development.
Participant Demographics
Pregnant wild-type FVB/N females and Vegfr2-luc males were used.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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