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Nesfatin-1 expression and blood plasma concentration in female dogs suffering from cystic endometrial hyperplasia and pyometra and its possible interaction with phoenixin-14
Abstract Background Nesfatin-1 is a neuropeptide that regulates the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and may play a role in uterus function. It is co-expressed with other peptides, such as phoenixin, which can influence sex hormone secretion. Our previous research has confirmed that phoenixin-14 is involved in the development of cystic endometrial hyperplasia (CEH) and pyometra in dogs. Therefore, based on the similarities and interactions between these neuropeptides, we hypothesized that nesfatin-1 might also regulate the reproductive system in dogs. This study aimed to determine the expression of nesfatin-1 and its interaction with phoenixin-14 in dogs with CEH or pyometra compared to healthy females, and concerning animals’ body condition score (BCS 4–5/9 vs. BCS > 5/9). Results The analysis of nesfatin-1 in the uterus of bitches consisted of qPCR, western blot and immunofluorescence assays, and ELISAs. The results showed significantly higher nesfatin-1 encoding gene, nucleobindin-2 mRNA (Nucb2) and nesfatin-1 protein expression in overweight females and those suffering from CEH or pyometra compared to healthy animals. The immunoreactivity of nesfatin-1 was elevated in the uteri of bitches with higher BCS > 5/9. Moreover, nesfatin-1 blood concentrations increased in all examined overweight bitches. In the case of phoenixin signals, we found opposite results, regardless of the female body condition score. Conclusion The etiology of CEH and pyometra are not fully known, although we have expanded the level of knowledge with respect to the possible interaction of nesfatin-1 and phoenixin in female dogs’ uteri. They interact oppositely. With increasing female body weight, the expression of nesfatin-1 in the uterus and its peripheral blood concentration increased. However, for female dogs affected by CEH and pyometra, a decreased level of phoenixin-14, irrespective of their body condition score is characteristic. This knowledge could be crucial in the development of biomarkers for these conditions, which may lead to earlier recognition.
The tissue distribution of nucleobindin-2/nesfatin-1 in the reproductive organs of bitches with regard to the animal’s age and body weight
Abstract Introduction Neuropeptide nesfatin-1, a nucleobindin-2 derivative, plays a role in regulating food intake, energy metabolism and body weight. It also interacts with the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and has functions in the reproductive system. However, its impact on the canine reproductive tract has not been well documented. This study aimed to investigate the potential role of nesfatin-1 in canine ovarian activity and uterine function. Material and Methods Tissue and peripheral blood samples were collected from 60 bitches of various ages and body condition scores (BCS). Analyses included real-time PCR, immunofluorescence examinations and ELISA tests. Results Higher level of nucleobindin-2 mRNA were found in the ovarian tissue of both younger and elderly overweight dogs (BCS > 5/9). The elevated expression of nesfatin-1 was observed in the uterine tissues of overweight dogs (BCS > 5/9) compared to its expression in animals in optimal body condition (BCS = 4/9). This finding was consistent with higher nesfatin-1 levels in the peripheral blood of overweight dogs. Conclusion The distribution and expression of nesfatin-1 in canine reproductive organs vary depending on the animal’s age and body weight. The role of nesfatin-1 in the reproductive system is influenced by the animal’s body condition and the extent of surplus adipose tissue, which may have significant implications for reproductive functions.