Molecular cloning of vitellogenin cDNA in rockfish (Sebastes schlegeli) and effects of estrogenic substances on its gene expression

In this study, we have cloned a partial cDNA of 620 bases encoding a vitellogenin gene of rockfish (rfVTG), Sebastes schlegeli. The expression levels of rfVTG mRNA increased 48 h after the 4-nonylphenol (NP) treatment (10 mg/kg BW) in both sexes. On the other hand, the mRNA levels of rfVTG increased 48 h in males and 12 h in females after injection when higher dose (25 mg/kg BW) of 4-NP was applied. It suggested that 4-NP induced VTG gene expression in both male and female immature rockfish. Therefore, the cloned rfVTG cDNA in this study can be used as a tool for monitoring endocrine disruptors in rockfish.