Expression of Leptin mRNA in ovine oocyte

Abstract

Introduction: Leptin, a product of Ob gene, is originally secreted by adipocytes and is involved in the regulation of food intake, energy metabolism and reproductive functions. There are various evidences regarding the direct effect of leptin on physiological activities of oocyte as well as ovarian function. The aim of this study was to investigate the expression of leptin and its receptor by reverse transcription - polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis in ovine oocytes. <br><br>Methods: Ovine ovaries were collected from abattoir and cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were aspirated. Then, COCs were denuded and immediately used for total RNA extraction. The complementary DNA was synthesized from isolated RNA and was used for PCR amplification. PCR reaction was performed with cDNA and designed special primers. Ovine beta actin gene was chosen as an internal control and adipose tissue was selected as positive control. <br><br>Results: Gel electrophoresis for PCR product was confirmed amplification of 162 bp fragment of leptin. So, it was demonstrated that transcript of leptin is expressed in ovine oocyte.<br><br>Conclusion: Our findings revealed that leptin has a direct effect on ovine oocyte function which should be investigated.