Circannual changes in the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor in the testis of roe deer (Capreolus capreolus)

Anim Reprod Sci. 2010 Feb;117(3-4):275-8. doi: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2009.05.006. Epub 2009 May 18.

Abstract

Adult roe deer males show seasonal cycles of testicular growth and involution. The exact timing of these cycles requires endocrine regulation and local testicular control by autocrine/paracrine factors. Recent findings suggest that the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) might have effects on both vascular and germinative cells in testis. Thus, we studied the expression pattern of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in roe deer testis using quantitative RT-PCR. The strength of VEGF mRNA expression depended on season. It reached its highest level at the peak of spermatogenesis during the pre-rutting period and had its nadir at the end of the rut when involution already began. The results suggested that VEGF may directly affect the regulation of spermatogenesis but may not be involved predominantly in testicular microvasculature as initially expected.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Deer / genetics*
  • Deer / metabolism
  • Deer / physiology
  • Gene Expression Regulation
  • Glyceraldehyde-3-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (Phosphorylating) / genetics
  • Glyceraldehyde-3-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (Phosphorylating) / metabolism
  • Male
  • Seasons*
  • Sexual Behavior, Animal / physiology
  • Spermatogenesis / genetics
  • Testis / metabolism*
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A / genetics*
  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A / metabolism

Substances

  • Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor A
  • Glyceraldehyde-3-Phosphate Dehydrogenase (Phosphorylating)