Analysis of endogenous retrovirus-like particle expression in normal male olive baboon (papio anubisj reproductive tissues.'
Abstract
Endogenous retrovirus- Iike sequences (ERV s) represent a substantial component of most
vertebrate genomes. Majority share morphological features with type-C retroviruses. To
date, the significance of ERV -related sequences in primate reproductive processes is sti11
unknown. In this study, testicular, epididymal and vasa deferentia tissues from sexually
immature (n=2) and mature (n=4) male olive baboons were investigated for the
expression of endogenous retrovirus-like particles. Immunohistochemical staining was
done using antibodies raised against human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-1I2, simian
immunodeficiency virus (SIV) and ERVs. In addition sodium dodecyl sulphatepolyacrylamide
gel electrophoresis (SDS-P AGE), and Western blot was done on
homogenized sperm pellet and seminal plasma. Reverse transcriptase (RTase) activity in
epididymal and ejaculated spermatozoa, and seminal fluid was evaluated. This study
demonstrated ERV3 env-like antigens on early phases of spermatogenic ce11s in mature
baboon testes (n=4) and on epididymal spermatozoa (n=4). Similarly, HIV-l p24/25 gag
and HIV-2 gp120-like antigens were expressed in mature and juvenile baboon testes. In
addition, reverse transcriptase activity was detected in ejaculated spermatozoa, seminal
fluid and epididymal spermatozoa. Proteins of approximately 49, 58 and 80 kDa were
detected in seminal fluid, 58 and 32 kDa in sperm pe11et from ejaculum and epididymis
respectively. Antibodies reactive with the testes and epididymis did not cross-react with
any of the proteins from semen samples including epididymal spermatozoa on
immunoblot. These results indicate that retroviral-Iike antigens are expressed in normal
male baboon testes and spermatozoa.
Citation
Sichangi, M.W(2001). Analysis of endogenous retrovirus-like particle expression in normal male olive baboon (papio anubisj reproductive tissues.Publisher
Department of Animal Physiology, University of Nairobi
Description
Msc Thesis