Expression of equine β-defensin 110, 123 and 124 genes in the stallion reproductive tract

Abstract

Previously, b-defensins were typically regarded as wellconserved antimicrobial peptides involved in innate immune function. However, recently, it has been suggested that defensin functions are not limited to protecting the individual against immune attack but are also involved in induction of mobility in immature sperm (Zhou et al., Nat Cell Biol 2004; 6(5): 458-465). Several defensins are expressed exclusively in the epididymis or on the surface of sperm (Com, et al., Biol Reprod 2003; 68: 95-104.), and abnormalities may result in reduced fertility. Since the sequencing of the equine genome, several defensin gene sequences have been predicted, but until now have not been used to investigate the defensin profile of the equine reproductive tract. Tissue samples of spleen, liver, kidney, lung, and testis and cauda epididymal samples fromnormal and cryptorchid mixed breed horses (n1⁄43, 3-10 years of age) were obtained during routine castrations and stored in RNAlater or snap frozen in liquid nitrogen. w100mg of tissue was homogenized in 2mL QIAzol (QIAGEN) with a polytron. After RNA extraction and cDNA synthesis, reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was