Expression of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptors in Bovine Cystic Follicles

Cystic follicles have excess fluid derived from blood flow in the theca interna of the follicle; therefore, the vasculature network is related to cystic follicle formation. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a potent stimulator of blood vessel permeability and angiogenesis. The aim of this study was to examine the expression of VEGF receptors proteins and mRNA in cystic follicles to elucidate the VEGF system in cystic follicles. The expression of protein for VEGF receptors; fms‐like‐tyrosine kinase‐1 (Flt‐1) and foetal liver kinase‐1 (Flk‐1) was detected by the immunohistochemical method. The mRNA expression of Flt‐1 and Flk‐1 in cystic follicles was determined by RT‐PCR. Concentration of oestradiol‐17β and progesterone in the follicular fluid of cystic follicles was determined using ELISA. Flt‐1‐ and Flk‐1 proteins were localized in granulosa and theca interna cells and endothelial cells of theca layers. The intensity of Flt‐1 and Flk‐1 immunoreaction was similar among cystic follicles with various ratios of oestradiol‐17β/progesterone concentrations. The expression of Flt‐1 and Flk‐1 mRNA was similar, regardless of the ratio of oestradiol‐17β to progesterone in follicular fluid. These results demonstrate that cystic follicles have both VEGF receptors in the granulosa and theca interna layers, which may be responsible for the increased permeability of microvessels, causing the accumulation of follicular fluid in cystic follicles.     

Expression and Localization of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and its Receptors in the Corpus Luteum During Oestrous Cycle in Water Buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis)

The aim of this study was to document the expression and localization of VEGF system comprising of VEGF isoforms (VEGF 120, VEGF 164 and VEGF 188) and their receptors (VEGFR1 and VEGFR2) in buffalo corpus luteum (CL) obtained from different stages of the oestrous cycle. Real‐time RT‐PCR (qPCR), Western blot and immunohistochemistry were applied to investigate mRNA expression, protein expression and localization of examined factors. In general, all the components of VEGF system (the VEGF isoforms and their receptors) were found in the water buffalo CL during the oestrous cycle. The mRNA as well as protein expression of VEGF system was highest during the early and mid‐luteal phase, which later steadily decreased (p < 0.05) after day 10 to reach the lowest level in regressed CL. As demonstrated by immunohistochemistry, VEGF protein was localized predominantly in luteal cells; however, VEGFR1 and VEGFR2 were localized in luteal cells as well as in endothelial cells. In conclusion, the dynamics of expression and localization of VEGF system in buffalo corpora lutea during the luteal phase were demonstrated in this study, indicating the possible role of VEGF system in the regulation of luteal angiogenesis and proliferation of luteal as well as endothelial cells through their non‐angiogenic function.     

血管内皮生长因子D基因的原核表达及纯化

利用GST融合基因表达系统原核表达血管内皮生长因子D,并进行纯化。诱导重组质粒pGEX-VEGF-D在大肠杆菌BL21(DE3)中表达,经超声破菌后,采用GST蛋白纯化系统进行纯化,并用3C-Protease酶切去标签GST,所得产物进行15%SDS-PAGE电泳。结果表明:大肠杆菌经诱导,高效表达出分子质量约56 ku的GST-VEGF-D融合蛋白;纯化后的蛋白经酶切后电泳显示只有一条带,纯度相对较高,可基本满足生物学活性测定,为研究VEGF-D蛋白的结构和功能提供了有利的条件。     

血管内皮生长因子在绵羊肺脏中的表达分布研究

目的研究血管内皮生长因子（vascular endothelial growth factor,VEGF）在绵羊肺脏中的表达分布特征。方法取成年绵羊肺脏组织,制备石蜡切片,利用HE染色法观察绵羊肺脏组织的形态结构,采用免疫组织化学方法检测VEGF在绵羊肺脏组织中的分布。结果肺脏的各类型细胞均可见VEGF表达,在绵羊肺脏导气部的细支气管和终末细支气管的上皮细胞,呼吸部的肺泡管和呼吸性细支气管的上皮细胞,以及肺的血管内皮细胞均可检测到VEGF的强阳性表达信号。结论VEGF广泛分布于绵羊肺脏组织中,对其形态结构和功能的维持具有重要作用。     

Angiogenesis and Vascular Regression in the Corpus Luteum Periodicum

Introduction and Aim: The corpus luteum is one of the most intensely vascularized tissues. Luteal angiogenesis is strictly controlled and blood vessels regress completely within a short period of time. The aim of this study was to investigate vascular dynamics in relation to cellular and molecular mechanisms of luteal angiogenesis and anti‐angiogenesis. Material and Methods: Endothelial cells of blood vessels in paraffin sections of bovine corpora lutea from different stages were examined by labelling with the lectin Bandeiraea simplicifolia agglutinin I. Angiogenesis was studied by morphometry of the capillaries, and immunolocalization of the angiogenic factor VEGF and VEGF‐receptor 2. Presence of apoptotic luteal and endothelial cells was investigated using the TUNEL test and transmission electron microscopy. Results: During development of the corpus luteum (day 3–8 of the oestrous cycle) a dense capillary network (8–12% area ratio) is established and maintained until day 17. Early regression (day 18–24) is characterized by a remarkable decrease of capillaries (1% area ratio). In the regressing corpus luteum the number of apoptotic luteal cells is closely correlated (r = 0.9) to the number of apoptotic endothelial cells. VEGF is immunolocalized in luteal cells (day 3–17), smooth muscle cells and endothelial cells of arterioles of the regressing corpus luteum. During late luteal regression, a moderate increase of capillaries (2.5% area ratio) is obvious. Conclusions: The dynamic changes of the capillarity during development and regression of the cyclic corpus luteum correlate with VEGF and VEGF‐R2 activities. In contrary to expectations the late stage of luteal regression is accompanied by angiogenesis. One reason for this phenomenon may be an increase in metabolic activity resulting in re‐organization of blood vessels already regressed.     

Ki-67 and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Expression in Intracranial Meningiomas in Dogs

Background: Tumor proliferation in human intracranial meningiomas can be defined by the reactivity of the monoclonal antibody MIB-1 to the Ki-67 antigen. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a pro-angiogenic factor, is a predictive marker for survival of dogs with intracranial meningiomas.
Hypothesis: Ki-67 is expressed in canine intracranial meningiomas and is associated with VEGF expression. Ki-67 expression is a prognostic marker for patient outcome.
Animals: Seventy client-owned dogs with WHO grade I intracranial meningiomas.
Methods: Retrospective study assessing the degree of immunostaining for Ki-67 by MIB-1 and VEGF expression in intracranial meningioma tissue from dogs. MIB-1 Labeling Index (LI) was calculated with Image J NIH-software. Extent, intensity, and distribution of VEGF-expression was assessed semiquantitatively. Cross tabulations with Fisher's exact tests and nonparametric Spearman's rank correlations were performed to identify associations between VEGF expression and MIB-1 LI. Fifteen dogs underwent postsurgical radiotherapy and were included in survival analysis. The effect of MIB-1 LI on survival was examined by Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazards regression procedures.
Results: Ki-67 staining was positive in 91% (64/70) and VEGF expression was detected in 96% (67/70). There was no significant association between VEGF expression and MIB-1 LI. MIB-1 LI was not associated with survival.
Conclusions and Clinical Importance: MIB-1 antibody can be used to document cell proliferation in intracranial meningiomas in dogs, but does not predict outcome. No association between VEGF as a marker of angiogenesis and tumor proliferation was found. Angiogenesis might be a more important predictor of meningioma activity in dogs than is Ki-67.     

藏鸡血管内皮生长因子基因表达与低氧适应

比较藏鸡在常氧(O2,21%)和低氧(O2,13%)浓度孵化环境中,胚胎尿囊绒毛膜(CAM)组织VEGF基因mRNA表达变化及其与低地矮小隐性白鸡的差别,分析VEGF表达与低氧适应的关系.结果发现低氧刺激使藏鸡和矮小隐性白鸡CAM组织VEGF表达均上调,矮小隐性白鸡上调程度明显大于藏鸡.结果说明在低氧环境中藏鸡CAM组织VEGF表达表现一定程度的增加,有利于血管形成,表现对低氧环境的适应;而低地鸡胚胎VEGF可能表现异常表达,不利于胚胎发育和存活.     

血管内皮细胞生长因子在鸡马立克病肝脏肿瘤中的表达

为研究血管内皮细胞生长因子(VEGF)在鸡马立克病肝脏肿瘤中的表达,探索其在马立克病(MD)肿瘤形成中的作用与机制。采用实时荧光定量PCR技术、Western blot技术,检测MD病毒组鸡肝脏肿瘤及正常组鸡肝脏中VEGF mRNA和蛋白质的表达。结果表明,MD病毒组鸡肝脏VEGF的mRNA和蛋白表达水平极显著高于正常组(P<0.01)。表明VEGF参与了MD肿瘤的形成。     

Angiogenesis in the Bovine Corpus Luteum: An Immunocytochemical and Ultrastructural Study*

Immediately after ovulation a neovascular response occurs at the level of the theca interna. Pericytes and endothelial cells of post-capillary venules locally remodel the surrounding stroma, elongate and migrate into the avascular granulosa folds of the ruptured follicle. In order to examine the composition of the extracellular matrix as well as the growth characteristics of these newly formed vessels, we used immunohistochemical and electron microscopic methods. Initial sprouts were characterized by the appearance of a fibrillary network of fibronectin along the main axis of the sprout. Type IV collagen stained weakly and extracellular deposits of laminin were amorphous and patchy around immature capillary sprouts. In advanced maturational stages of the sprouts the capillaries were surrounded by increased deposits of fibronectin, whereas laminin and type IV collagen displayed a distinct and well-developed line around endothelial cells and pericytes. These observations indicate that the microvascular extracellular matrix undergoes a series of quantitative rather than qualitative changes during capillary development before achieving final maturation. Ultrastructural analyses showed that early capillary sprouts in the bovine corpus luteum were usually preceded by pericytes migrating at the tips of the sprouts. Endothelial cells comigrated in cohesive cylindrical projections, forming immediately a slit-like lumen which satisfies the criteria of the intercellular canalization type. Pericytes at the tips of endothelial sprouts exhibited a slender, bipolar morphology and were regularly surrounded by fragmented basal lamina, which is well-developed around pericytes in a more proximal position of the sprout. The regular association of pericytes with the leading front of the capillary sprouts suggests that these cell types may serve as guiding structures aiding outgrowth of endothelial cells in the bovine corpus luteum.     

EP2受体激动剂Butaprost对奶牛子宫内膜上皮细胞中血管内皮生长因子基因表达的影响

[目的]观察EP2受体激动剂Butaprost对奶牛子宫内膜上皮细胞中血管内皮生长因子(vascular endothelial growth factor,VEGF)基因表达的影响,探讨前列腺素类化合物对奶牛子宫内膜组织修复的机制。[方法]分离培养奶牛子宫内膜上皮细胞,采用荧光定量PCR技术检测EP2受体激动剂Butaprost对奶牛子宫内膜上皮细胞中VEGFmRNA表达的影响。[结果]10-6mol/L的Butaprost作用于奶牛子宫内膜上皮细胞4、8、16、24h可显著(P<0.05)或极显著(P<0.01)地促进VEGFmRNA的表达。[结论]EP2受体激动剂Butaprost能够促进奶牛子宫内膜上皮细胞中VEGF基因的表达。     

Serum and Plasma Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Levels in Various Cat Populations

Introduction:  Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is one of the most important mediators of angiogenesis. Elevated levels within tumors, and in serum, plasma, and tumor effusion have been correlated with the development of metastatic disease, recurrence, and poor prognosis in many tumors in humans. Canine VEGF has been sequenced as homologous with the human form, and elevated serum and plasma VEGF have been found in dogs with hemangiosarcoma. Feline VEGF has also been sequenced, and shares homology with the human and canine forms.
Materials and Methods:  Stored serum and plasma samples from normal cats, cats with various neoplasms, and cats with non‐neoplastic disease were evaluated with a commercial ELISA kit (R&D Systems, Minneapolis MN). Samples were run in duplicate, and a standard curve was performed for each plate. The data were analyzed for differences between populations, and between serum and plasma levels in the same patient to determine the optimal sample for evaluating VEGF in cats.
Results:  In seven apparently healthy cats mean plasma VEGF was 95.6 pg/mL. In non‐neoplastic disease (7 cases), mean plasma VEGF was 117.3 pg/mL and mean serum VEGF level was 219.7 pg/mL. In ten tumor‐bearing patients mean plasma VEGF was 247.1 pg/mL, and mean serum VEGF was 322.3 pg/mL. Statistical analysis showed no significant difference between mean serum and plasma VEGF concentrations within each group or between groups (p > 0.05).
Discussion:  Serum and plasma VEGF levels could not be used to distinguish between healthy cats and cats with neoplastic or non‐neoplastic disease.     

Angiogenesis in Developing Follicle and Corpus Luteum

Angiogenesis is a process of vascular growth that is mainly limited to the reproductive system in healthy adult animals. The development of new blood vessels in the ovary is essential to guarantee the necessary supply of nutrients and hormones to promote follicular growth and corpus luteum formation. In developing follicles, the pre-existing endothelial cells that form the vascular network in the theca layer markedly develop in response to the stimulus of several growth factors, mainly produced by granulosa cells, such as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF). The angiogenic factors also promote vessel permeability, thus favouring the antrum formation and the events inducing follicle rupture. After ovulation, newly formed blood vessels cross the basement membrane between theca and granulosa layers and continue a rapid growth to sustain corpus luteum development and function. The length of luteal vascular growth varies in cycling and pregnant animals and among species; both angiogenesis and subsequent angioregression are finely regulated by systemic and local factors. The control of angiogenic development in the ovary could be a useful tool to improve animal reproductive performances.     

Mucometra with Persistent Corpus Luteum in Goats

Ovaries of two goats with persistent corpus luteum were studied by histochemical methods. Lutein cells showed moderate alkaline phosphatase and acid phosphatase activity associated with strong delta 5-3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase and succinic tetrazolium reductase activity. The results are interpreted as an indication that the corpus luteum was functioning.     

Localization of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Fibroblast Growth Factor 2 in the Ovary of the Ostrich (Struthio camelus)

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF‐2) play a paramount role in the regulation of normal and pathologic angiogenesis in the ovary of mammals. Very little is known on the expression of these two growth factors in the avian ovary. The aim of this study was to determine for the first time the localization of VEGF and FGF‐2 in the ovary of the ostrich using immunohistochemical techniques to investigate the vascularization of the rapidly growing huge ostrich oocyte. At the oocyte periphery, distinct VEGF‐positive granules are visible. In our opinion, the expression of VEGF in the growing oocytes, which does not occur in mammals such as bovines, does not significantly contribute to angiogenesis in the theca interna and externa, where all the original and developing vessels are located, but may contribute to the mitoses and survival of granulosa cells during folliculogenesis. A different immunostaining can be demonstrated for FGF‐2: from late pre‐vitellogenic follicles, FGF‐2 immunopositivity can be observed at the inner perivitelline layer area. In the stroma, the smooth muscle cells of small arteries and the endothelial cells of venules and veins are positively stained for FGF‐2. Another interesting finding of this study is the occurrence of a significant number of VEGF‐ and FGF‐2 positive heterophilic granulocytes within the ovarian stroma, which migrate from the periphery of the ovary towards the growing follicles. We assume that the growth factors of the heterophilic granulocytes contribute significantly to the angiogenesis seen in both theca layers.     

黄体机能与生长因子关系的研究进展

论述了黄体的形成和机能 ,同时介绍了EGF、TGF、IGF和VEGF等生长因子对黄体的调控作用     

Expression Pattern of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor in Canine Folliculogenesis and its Effect on the Growth and Development of Follicles after Ovarian Organ Culture

In this study, the expressions of VEGF in dog follicles were detected by immunohistochemistry and the effects of VEGF treatment on the primordial to primary follicle transition and on subsequent follicle progression were examined using a dog ovary organ culture system. The frozen‐thawed canine ovarian follicles within slices of ovarian cortical tissue were cultured for 7 and 14 days in presence or absence of VEGF. After culture, the ovaries were fixed, sectioned, stained and counted for morphologic analysis. The results showed that VEGF was expressed in the theca cells of antral follicles and in the granulosa cells nearest the oocyte in preantral follicle but not in granulosa cells of primordial and primary follicles; however, the VEGF protein was expressed in CL. After in vitro culture, VEGF caused a decrease in the number of primordial follicles and concomitant increase in the number of primary follicles that showed growth initiation and reached the secondary and preantral stages of development after 7 and 14 days. Follicular viability was also improved in the presence of VEGF after 7 and 14 days in culture. In conclusion, treatment with VEGF was found to promote the activation of primordial follicle development that could provide an alternative approach to stimulate early follicle development in dogs.