Expression and cellular distribution of estrogen-related receptor beta gamma (ERR beta gamma), estrogen-related receptor gamma (ERR gamma) and progesterone receptor membrane component 1 (PGRMC1) in immature porcine oocytes: confocal microscopy approach

摘要

Steroid hormones display a significant role during the regulation of mammalian reproduction. It has been clearly shown that these hormones regulate important stages of ovulation, embryo development and proper implantation during pen-implantation stages. Moreover, the function of steroids has also been shown as activators and/or inhibitors of oocyte maturation. However, the expression of steroid receptors as well as protein distribution within the cell is still poorly recognized in relation to estrogen-related receptors (ERRs) and the progesterone receptor-membrane component (PGRMC1). Therefore, the aim of this study was to analyze ERR beta/gamma, ERR gamma and PGRMC1 protein expression and localization in porcine immature oocytes using confocal microscopic observations.