Expression of nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) in mouse uterus during the peri-implantation period

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Soylu H., Aksu K., Golal E., Üstünel İ., Izgut-Uysal V. N., Acar Aydemir N.

Biotechnic and Histochemistry, vol.98, no.2, pp.132-139, 2023 (SCI-Expanded) identifier identifier

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 98 Issue: 2
  • Publication Date: 2023
  • Doi Number: 10.1080/10520295.2022.2127156
  • Journal Name: Biotechnic and Histochemistry
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Academic Search Premier, BIOSIS, Biotechnology Research Abstracts, CAB Abstracts, EMBASE, Food Science & Technology Abstracts, MEDLINE, Veterinary Science Database
  • Page Numbers: pp.132-139
  • Keywords: Mouse, Nrf2, pregnancy, reactive oxygen species, uterus
  • Akdeniz University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor- 2 (Nrf2) is a nuclear transcription factor that facilitates transcription of genes for detoxification enzymes and antioxidant proteins. We investigated the distribution and expression of Nrf2 during the peri-implantation period. We detected Nrf2 in uteri of mice during estrus (control) and on days 1, 4, 5, 6 and 8 of pregnancy using immunohistochemistry, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting. Nrf2 immunostaining was significantly greater on days 1, 5 and 6 of pregnancy compared to controls, and on days 4 and 8 of pregnancy; western blotting results were consistent with immunohistochemical observations. Nrf2 mRNA levels on days 5 and 8 were significantly higher than for control uteri. Increased expression of Nrf2 on days 1, 5 and 6 of pregnancy may be important for uterine receptivity, implantation and decidualization by protecting the developing embryo and uterus from the adverse effects of oxidative stress.