Phospholipid scramblase expression in the pregnant mouse uterus in LPS-induced preterm delivery

Reprod Sci. 2012 Nov;19(11):1211-8. doi: 10.1177/1933719112446078. Epub 2012 May 17.

Abstract

Phospholipid scramblases (PLSCR), stimulated by proinflammatory cytokines, are thought to mediate the loss of lipid asymmetry in cell membranes, allowing for specific reactions in the coagulation cascade. The PLSCR may therefore provide a link between inflammation, coagulation, and, because thrombin is a uterotonic, preterm birth (PTB). To explore the relationship between PLSCR expression and inflammation-related PTB, we utilized reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction and Western blot studies to quantify messenger RNA (mRNA) and protein expression for the 4 PLSCR homologues (PLSCR 1-4). Uteri from day 15 pregnant mice were harvested at several time points after intrauterine lipopolysaccharide (LPS) injection (or normal saline, for controls). Expression of mRNA in all 4 Plscr isoforms was demonstrated. Lipopolysaccharide treatment resulted in increased expression of PLSCR-1 and a decrease in Plscr4 mRNA, thereby demonstrating modulation of PLSCR-1 and PLSCR-4 in LPS-induced PTB. Additionally, protein expression was confirmed for all except PLSCR-4, with increased expression of PLSCR-1 after LPS treatment.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Blotting, Western
  • Female
  • Gene Expression
  • Inflammation / complications
  • Isoenzymes / analysis
  • Isoenzymes / genetics
  • Lipopolysaccharides / administration & dosage*
  • Mice
  • Phospholipid Transfer Proteins / analysis
  • Phospholipid Transfer Proteins / genetics*
  • Pregnancy
  • Premature Birth / etiology*
  • Premature Birth / metabolism*
  • RNA, Messenger / analysis
  • Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction
  • Uterus / chemistry
  • Uterus / drug effects
  • Uterus / metabolism*

Substances

  • Isoenzymes
  • Lipopolysaccharides
  • Phospholipid Transfer Proteins
  • RNA, Messenger