Molecular Human Reproduction, Vol. 8, No. 10, 941-945,
October 2002
© 2002 European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology
Implantation and pregnancy |
Expression of mRNA transcripts for ATP-sensitive potassium channels in human myometrium
1 National Diagnostics Centre, National University of Ireland, Galway, 2 National Centre for Biomedical Engineering Science, National University of Ireland, Galway, and 3 Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, National University of Ireland, Galway, Clinical Science Institute, University College Hospital Galway, Newcastle Road, Galway, Ireland
The molecular mechanisms regulating human uterine quiescence and parturition are poorly understood. Potassium channels are central to regulation of cell membrane potential and contractility of smooth muscle. The aim of this study was to examine the expression of ATP-sensitive potassium channel (KATP channel) subunits in human myometrium, and to investigate for possible differential expression of these subunits in myometrium obtained from three different functional states: (i) non-pregnant (NP); (ii) late pregnant not in labour (PNL); and (iii) late pregnant in labour (PL). RT–PCR detected the presence of mRNA for four subunits of KATP channels (Kir6.1, Kir6.2, SUR1 and SUR2B) in the three tissue types. Quantitative analysis of these subunits was achieved with real-time RT–PCR using LightcyclerTM technology. This analysis showed that there were significantly higher levels of Kir6.1 and SUR2B transcripts in NP myometrium compared with those measured in myometrium obtained during pregnancy (P < 0.001). Lower levels of Kir6.2 and SUR1 mRNA expression were found, although higher transcript levels in NP myometrium (P < 0.05) were still observed. Our results indicate that the major KATP channel expressed in human myometrium is composed of Kir6.1 and SUR2B, and that down-regulation of this channel may facilitate myometrial function during late pregnancy.
ATP-sensitive potassium channels/human myometrium/real-time RT-PCR/sulphonylurea receptor
4 To whom correspondence should be addressed at: National Centre for Biomedical Engineering Science, National University of Ireland, Galway, Galway, Ireland. E-mail: terry.smith{at}nuigalway.ie
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