Expression of IL-23 in gilt endometrium and oviduct after insemination with seminal plasma, spermatozoa or semen extender

Abstract

Objective Insemination with spermatozoa, seminal plasma and extender, cause a rapid inflammatory response in pig endometrium, characterized by an influx of neutrophils into the uterus. The transient inflammatory response to semen involves cytokine induction. Potential functions for Interleukin-23 (IL-23) in the inflammatory response to different insemination treatments were examined by studying mRNA expression and immunostaining in gilt oviduct and endometrium 35–40 h after insemination. Insemination was performed with seminal plasma (SP), spermatozoa (SPZ) without SP in the extender Beltsville thawing solution (BTS), or BTS alone. In control gilts an insemination catheter was inserted without anything being inseminated. Results Results showed that IL-23 mRNA was expressed in oviduct and endometrium after insemination regardless of treatment. There was an approximate two- to fourfold increase in expression of IL-23 mRNA in catheter-insertion control compared with SPZ, SP and BTS treatment groups. IL-23 immunolabelling was detected in a small number of separate cells and in the sub-epithelial connective tissue of the endometrium, the endosalpinx of isthmus and infundibulum. Conclusion In conclusion, insemination with SP, SPZ in BTS, and BTS alone decreased the expression of IL-23 mRNA in the endometrium compared to catheter-insertion control, indicating a possible role for IL-23 in the inflammatory response after insemination in gilts.

Changes in Immune Response during Pig Gestation with a Focus on Cytokines

“…In pigs, this cytokine was present in the uterus but only some hours after mating, likely in relation to the inflammatory reactions that occur in this moment. Therefore, it is related to infection prevention [ 64 ]. No other reports relating to this cytokine were found relating to pig gestation; therefore, little is known about other potential expression patterns and functions.…”

“…IL-23 is present in the uterus but only some hours after mating, and is found in relation to the inflammatory reactions that occur in this moment. [64] IFN-γ A proinflammatory cytokine Th1, primarily produced by stimulated lymphocytes.…”