Expressions of Antimicrobial Peptide Gallinacin-1,-2 and-3 mRNAs in the Oviduct of Laying Hens

Abstract

The aim of this study was to determine the profiles of mRNA expressions of gallinacin (Gal)-1, -2 and -3, which are the antimicrobial peptides, in the oviduct of laying hens. The oviductal tissues of White Leghorn laying hens were collected. Expressions of Gal-1, -2 and -3 mRNA were examined by semiquantitative RT-PCR and localized in the vagina by in situ hybridization. The expressions of Gal-1, -2 and -3 were observed in infundibulum, magnum, isthmus, uterus and vagina by RT-PCR. The expressions of Gal-1, -2 and -3 were greater in the infundibulum and vagina, except for Gal-2 in the vagina. The signals of each Gal mRNA were identified in the basal cells of surface epithelium of vagina. These results suggested that antimicrobial peptide, Gal-1, 2 and -3 were expressed in the oviduct with a greater expression in the infundibulum and vagina, and surface epithelium were the major site for the synthesis of Gals in the vagina.