Gene expression of adiponectin receptors: 1 (Adipor1) and 2 (Adipor2) in the porcine ovary during the oestrous cycle

Background: Adiponectin, protein secreted mainly by white adipose tissue, is an important factor linking the regulation of metabolic homeostasis and reproductive processes. The biological activity of the hormone is mediated via two distinct receptors, termed adiponectin receptor 1(AdipoR1) and adiponectin receptor 2 (AdipoR2). The present study analyzed mRNA and protein expression of AdipoR1 and AdipoR2 in the anterior (AP) and posterior (NP) pituitary of cyclic pigs. Methods: The total of 20 animals was assigned to one of four experimental groups (n = 5 per group) as follows: days 2–3 (early-luteal phase), 10–12 (mid-luteal phase), 14–16 (late-luteal phase), 17–19 (follicular phase) of the oestrous cycle. mRNA and protein expression were analyzed using real-time PCR and Western Blot methods, respectively. Results: The lowest AdipoR1 gene expression was detected in AP on days 10–12 relative to days 2– 3a nd 14–16 (p< 0.05). In NP, AdipoR1 mRNA levels were elevated on days 10–12 and 14–16 (p< 0.05). AdipoR2 gene expression in AP was the lowest on days 10–12, and an expression peak occurred on days 2–3 (p