Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor mRNA Isoforms 120 and 164 are Differentially Regulated Prior to Ovulation

Authors

Robin A. Ten Broeck, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Debra T. Clopton, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Jeremy L. Martin, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Rebecca C. Bott, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Karl V. Moline, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Jeffrey W. Bergman, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow
Andrea S. Cupp, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow

Date of this Version

January 2006

Comments

Published in 2006 Nebraska Beef Cattle Report. Copyright © 2005 The Board of Regents of the University of Nebraska.

Abstract

Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) is produced by cells surrounding the egg in the follicle prior to ovulation. If VEGF is inhibited, ovulation does not occur. The VEGF gene can be spliced to produce different protein isoforms which have specific functions. Our objective was to determine if VEGF 120 and 164 mRNA isoforms are differentially regulated in the preovulatory follicle. From our studies, VEGF isoforms are differentially regulated during both CL regression and after a simulated LH surge. Differences observed in VEGF isoform regulation may allow for manipulation of ovulation in the beef cow.