Subscribe to RSS
DOI: 10.1055/s-0028-1096374
Metal responsive transcription factor MTF-1 spatial expression related to functional organization of pituitary cells in Cyprinus carpio
Transcription factors constitute central nodes in the regulatory network orchestrating the adaptational response to environmental changes, including exposure to heavy metals or substances affecting the endocrine system. In the animal model carp fish we characterize hypothalamo-hypophyseal factors with the aim to identify early response marker genes to evaluate xenobiotic effects in the aquatic environment. We prepared polyclonal antibodies against carp metal responsive transcription factor MTF-1, necessary for heavy metal homeostasis and response to heavy metal exposure and stress. In Western Blot analyses a specific immunoreaction occurred at about 60kDa, consistent with the derived molecular weight of MTF-1. The differential expression pattern in pituitary gland, a very strong immunoreaction in proximal pars distalis (somatotrophs), with respect to less reaction in rostral pars distalis (lactotrophs), and in pars intermedia (expression of somatolactin), suggests specific effects on pituitary hormones. Currently we determine MTF-1 interactions in vivo via chromatin immune precipitation in pituitary extracts of Zn treated respect to control carp. Supported by Fondecyt 1070724, 7070314.