Immunohistochemical analysis of Heme oxygenases, Prolactin and VEGF in the mouse placenta

Meenakshi Rana; Sharmila Basu–Modak

Volume : V, Issue : XI, November - 2016

Immunohistochemical analysis of Heme oxygenases, Prolactin and VEGF in the mouse placenta

Meenakshi Rana, Sharmila Basu Modak

Abstract :

Heme oxygenase 1 (Hmox1), the inducible form of the rate limiting enzyme in heme degradation, is required for establishment and maintenance of pregnancy. ?e role of Hmox2 in placentation has been ignored although high levels of its mRNA and protein have been reported in the placenta. In this study the expression of the two Hmoxs was analysed in the late gestation mouse placenta by immunohistochemistry and higher levels of Hmox2 were found in all three regions of the placenta. ?e expression pattern observed suggests that the two isozymes probably have different functions in the placenta. Two Hmox1 dependent factors important for angiogenesis, namely, prolactin and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) along with their receptors were also analysed. ?e results presented in this study clearly indicate that Hmox2 and VEGF have to be studied further to understand their role in the development of the mouse emyo and placenta.