Gluck Center > Directory > Gluck Faculty >Fitzgerald, BP > Research Projects
RESEARCH PROJECTSThe Role of Insulin on Expression and Activity
of MMPs |
Barry P. Fitzgerald, Ph.D.
|
Dawn R. Sessions - Graduate Research AssistantThis investigation is focused on the possible role of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) in disruption of the reproductive cycle associated with obesity and insulin resistance in the horse. The studies address the hypothesis that elevated insulin resulting from insulin resistance disrupts expression and activity of (MMPs) and their inhibitors (TIMPs), resulting in disturbances of tissue remodeling events necessary for proper functioning of follicular development and ovulation in the equine. The hypothesis will be investigated using a number of techniques including transvaginal aspiration of ovarian follicles in mares, primary granulosa cell tissue culture, protein assays, and molecular methods for detecting mRNA expression. Briefly, granulosa cells and follicular fluid are collected from live horses utilizing a transvaginal aspiration procedure. Following sedation an ultrasound-guided needle is inserted into the ovarian follicles and the cells and follicular fluid are gently vacuumed out. Follicluar fluid is then analyzed using protein assays to determine MMP and TIMP protein activity. The granulosa cells then undergo tissue culture with varying concentrations of insulin to determine if there are any changes in the production and activity of MMPs and TIMPs associated with exposure to insulin. |
Maxwell H.Gluck Equine Research Center
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