Molecular epidemiology of Japanese encephalitis in pigs and risk factors associated with causing Japanese encephalitis in pigs of Lakhimpur, the first case reported in the district of North East India

BACKGROUND & OBJECTIVES

Japanese encephalitis (JE) is a major public health problem in India. The first outbreaks of JE have been reported from the North-eastern regions of Assam, particularly from the Lakhimpur district of Assam between July-August 1989. In Assam every year many people died due to JE. This study was performed to investigate the molecular epidemiology of JE in pigs in Lakhimpur district of Assam and the risk factors associated with causing Japanese encephalitis in pigs. This study will help to map out the endemic regions and to know where and when to apply the most control strategies towards the prevention and control of the disease.

METHODS

A total of 342 serum samples from pigs were collected from 10 organized and 20 unorganized farms from 9 blocks and recorded to age, sex and breed and tested by RT-PCR. Pig farms and the surrounding environment were studied for assessment of farm-level risk factors responsible for JEV infection in pigs.

RESULTS

Out of 342 samples tested for detection of the E gene of JEV, 14 samples were found to be positive with a prevalence rate of 4.09%. Age, sex and breed-wise higher cases were found in at the age group above 12 months, sex wise female and breed-wise local pigs. Pig farms less than 500 meters from risk factors like rice field, stagnant water source, wild bird exposure to farm and mosquito exposure at farm/ bite to pigs, found to be more numbers of JE cases.

INTERPRETATION & CONCLUSION

Molecular epidemiology of JE in pigs, and humans; positive at Lakhimpur recommend the need for uninterrupted surveillance of this virus in pigs specially those areas where pig population is more and all risk factors are present.

143 Therapeutic efficacy and safety of adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells in treating mastitis and metritis in dairy cattle

Mastitis and metritis are two inflammatory diseases with high economic impact on dairy industry and farmers are losing revenues. Antibiotic treatment for these disease conditions typically achieve suboptimal outcomes. Moreover, emerging antibiotic resistance in mastitis and metritis worldwide has a severe effect on productivity, fertility, and lifespan of animals. A paradigm shift in treatment strategies is much needed for these animals. Attracting properties of mesenchymal stem cells may act as an alternative strategy for treating these diseases. In addition to their ability to differentiate into multiple types of cells, mesenchymal stem cells can orchestrate immune responses and modulate tissue microenvironments. In the present study, we evaluated the safety and efficacy of adipose tissue–derived mesenchymal stem cells (AT-MSC) for mastitis and metritis. A well-characterised adipose-derived stem cell line with 3–5 passages cells were used for treatment for these diseases. In a safety trial, mastitis- and metritis-infected cattle were administered with 1×106 cells of AT-MSC through different routes (local, IV, IV+local). Animals were clinically evaluated during 15 days of the experimental period and blood samples were collected for hemogram determination. The efficacy was checked under both invivo and invitro conditions. Invitro efficiency of AT-MSC was determined using a transwell plate experiment, in which AT-MSC were co-cultured with bacteria (Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus). Invivo efficiency was evaluated by administration of in 2mL (1×106 cells) of AT-MSC dose; then, somatic cell count (SCC) in milk of mastitic cattle and polymorphonuclear (PMN) cell count in cervical vaginal fluid (CVF) of metritic cattle were determined. Gene expression profiling of antimicrobial (cathelicidin, lipocalin, cystatin) and anti-inflammatory (IL-4, IL-6, IL-10) peptides were quantified in all groups: IV, local, IV+local, and control ATB (antibiotic). Allogenic AT-MSC did not induce any immunological rejection response in treated animals. A significant reduction of bacteria in CVF invitro when co-cultured with AT-MSC was observed. The PMN count was significantly reduced in CVF of the IV+local group. The SCC in milk of mastitic animals was decreased in the local (intramammary) group. Maximum expression of IL-6, IL-10, cathelicidin, lipocalin, and cystatin and angiopoietin genes were observed on Day 3 followed by Day 7 in the local group in case of mastitis. In metritis, expression of IL-6, IL-10, cathelicidin, lipocalin, cystatin, and angiopoietin were observed at Day 3 in the IV+local group. All mastitic and metritic cattle were completely and permanently cured within 30 days after treatment with mesenchymal stem cells. In conclusion, we provide initial evidence for the use of allogenic AT-MSC and their safety and efficacy to treat mastitis and metritis in dairy cattle.

Genome-wide expression analysis of the heat stress response in dermal fibroblasts of Tharparkar (zebu) and Karan-Fries (zebu × taurine) cattle

The present study sought to evaluate mRNA expression profiles in the cultured dermal fibroblasts of Tharparkar (zebu) and Karan-Fries (zebu, Tharparkar × taurine, Holstein Friesian) cattle in response to heat stress. Bioinformatics' analysis identified temperature-regulated biological processes and pathways. Biological processes overrepresented among the earliest genes induced by temperature stress include regulation of stress responses, protein repair, metabolism, protein transport, cell division, and apoptosis. The present microarray platform contains 51,338 synthesized oligonucleotide probes corresponding to at least 36,713 unigenes. A total of 11,183 and 8126 transcripts were differentially expressed with a fold change of ≥ 2 in Tharparkar and Karan-Fries cattle, respectively. Randomly selected real-time validation showed 83.33% correlation with microarray data. Functional annotation and pathway study of the differentially expressed transcripts or genes (DEGs) reveal that upregulated genes significantly (P < 0.05) affect protein processing and NOD-like receptor pathways (NLRs), while downregulated genes were significantly (P < 0.05) found to be associated with cell cycle, metabolism, and protein transport. Gene expression changes include activation of heat shock factors (HSFs), increased expression of heat shock proteins (HSPs), and apoptosis, while decreasing protein synthesis and another metabolism. These findings provide insights into the underlying mechanism of the physiology of heat stress in Tharparkar and Karan-Fries cattle. Understanding the biology and mechanisms of heat stress is critical to developing approaches to ameliorate current production issues for improving animal performance and agriculture economics in tropical climatic conditions. In conclusion, the present study indicates that heat stress differentially affects the expression of the significant number of genes associated with stress response, metabolism, apoptosis, and protein transport in dermal fibroblasts of Tharparkar and Karan-Fries cattle.

84 Folate-methionine cycle and folate transport in developing buffalo embryos

Periconceptional folic acid is known to have a major role in the prevention of neural tube defects, leading to global recommendations for folic acid supplementation before and in early pregnancy. Maternal folate throughout pregnancy may have other roles in offspring health, including neurodevelopment and cognitive performance in childhood. Folate and folic acid (vitamin B9) act as a co-enzyme essential for single carbon metabolism, a network of pathways involved in several biological processes including nucleotide synthesis, DNA repair, and methylation reactions. In general, rapidly growing and multiplying cells require an adequate supply of folate. A primary deficiency of natural folate resulting in an increase of the total homocysteine concentration may be detrimental to the quality of the oocyte, subsequent fertilisation, embryogenesis, implantation, and fetal development. However, to date, folate-methionine metabolism and folate transport have not been studied in developing buffalo embryos. The present study details transcript expression for genes encoding key enzymes in the linked folate-methionine cycles in the ovary tissue, cumulus cells, immature oocytes, IVM oocytes, and pre-implantation embryos and also estimates the folate concentration in follicular fluid (FF) of buffalo. The FF was pooled and collected by aspiration of different sizes of surface follicles (2-8mm diameter). The total number of analysed samples was three, with different dilutions and estimation of folate in FF of buffalo done by chemiluminescence assay. Total RNA was extracted from oocytes, cumulus cells, ovarian tissue, and embryos produced from IVF. RT-PCR was performed to analyse the expression of folate-methionine cycle enzymes and folate transporters. Transcripts for all the enzymes of the folate-methionine cycle (i.e. SHMT, MTR, MTRR, MAT1A, MAT2B, GNMT, AHCY, CBS, and DHFR) and folate transporters (FOLR1, FOLR2) and reduced folate carrier (SLC19A1) were expressed in ovarian tissue, cumulus cells, oocytes, and pre-implantation embryos. Immunocytochemical analysis revealed FOLR2 and SLC19A1 protein expression on the plasma membrane and/or cytoplasm of the oocytes and embryos, and FOLR1 in the nucleus of pre-implantation embryos. The folate concentration in FF was 24ngmL−1. This is the first report to examine the concentration of folate in FF and revealed the identification of transcripts in different samples of buffalo species. The presence of these enzymes could have a profound effect on single-carbon metabolism within the ovary and pre-implantation embryo, therefore indicating that folate from FF is being disseminated through folate receptors within oocytes and embryos to participate in the folate pathway. This study advocates the necessity for examination of the result of folate supplementation throughout invitro embryo production for improving the quality and quantity of transferable blastocysts and subsequently live calf births in buffalo.

220 Exploring the use of mesenchymal stem cells for treatment of mastitis and metritis in cattle

The present study was carried out to isolate mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) from adipose tissue of cattle (Bos indicus), characterise them, and apply them for the treatment of mastitis and metritis in the cow. Cattle MSCs were isolated from adipose tissue near the loin region of cow. Isolated adipose tissue was subjected to enzymatic digestion using 2% collagenase with agitation at regular intervals. The cells obtained after digestion were resuspended in cell culture flasks containing growth enriched medium and cultured under standard culture conditions. Alkaline phosphatase staining was used as one of the parameters to confirm cultured putative MSCs. Bovine Ad-MSCs were further characterised using real time-PCR by amplification of MSC-specific markers: CD73, CD90, and CD105 as positive markers and CD34, CD45, and CD79a as negative markers. Immunocytochemistry showed the presence of CD73, CD90, and CD105 on the cell surface. Three groups-control (C), local (L), and intravenous (IV)-with 6 cows suffering from mastitis were taken in each group and subjected to MSC transplantation through local and intravenous routes. Control group animals were subjected to antibiotic treatment only. Similarly, another three groups were taken with 6 cows in each group suffering from metritis. Post-transplantation wound healing, tissue repair, and reduction in inflammation were monitored for 26 days, at different time intervals; that is, after Days 1, 3, 7, and 15. Blood samples were also collected from animals at the same time intervals for real time-PCR. A similar examination was also done in metritis groups along with the analysis of the reduction in turbidity of cervical fluid at the abovementioned time intervals. Real time-PCR was performed to determine relative expression of genes for proliferative factors, anti-inflammatory cytokines, and antimicrobial peptides on cells isolated from blood collected at different time intervals. Gene expression in the local group of mastitis subjected to MSC injection was significantly higher than that of the IV and control group. The somatic cell count declined in both local and IV groups compared with the control group. Whereas the expression of the same genes in the IV group of metritis was significantly higher than that of the local and control groups of cows. The turbidity of cervical fluid and mucus was reduced in the IV group compared with the local group. In conclusion, we demonstrated the healing potential of MSCs in a cow model via MSC injection. Promising results were obtained in curing mastitis in both local and IV groups, whereas healing in the case of metritis was significantly higher in the IV group compared with both the control and local groups of cows. The study indicates the potential use of MSc for treatment of mastitis and metritis in cattle through wound healing and decreasing microbial infection.

179 Xenogeneic and Allogeneic Mesenchymal Stem Cell Transplantation for Treatment of Tibial Bone Fracture in Mice

Among stem cells, mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) are best suited for therapeutic purposes because of their immunomodulatory properties, ability to be isolated from adult animal at any stage, ease of propagation in the laboratory, and so on. The present study was carried out to isolate and characterise MSC from adipose tissue of mouse (Mus musculus), and to test their application for the treatment of fractured tibia bone in mouse. Cattle and buffalo MSC, already cultured and characterised in our laboratory, were used in the present study as xenogeneic MSC to observe the healing in mouse model. Murine Ad-MSC were isolated from mouse inguinal fat pad by enzymatic digestion method and cultured in growth enriching medium in standard culture conditions. To test the therapeutic potential of MSC, 24 mice were divided into 4 groups: control (C), allogeneic (A), cattle xenogeneic (CX), and buffalo xenogeneic (BX) with 6 mice (having tibial bone mechanical fractured) in each group, and had the corresponding MSC cells injected in the fracture area. The control group was not subjected to any kind of MSC treatment. Post-treatment, healing in all groups was examined for 36 days at different intervals (Days 1, 12, 24, and 36) via digital X-ray imaging. A bone healing score was assigned to each mouse per the protocol provided by RUST (Radiographic Union Scale in Tibial bone) fractures. The results of present study showed that murine Ad-MSC were positive for MSC-specific markers CD44, CD90, CD105, and negative for CD34 and CD45 via RT-PCR and immunocytochemistry. The Ad-MSC were also positive for the alkaline phosphatase staining. Statistical analysis, using Proc GLM (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC, USA), revealed that the bone healing was significantly different (P < 0.01) between group C (1.708 ± 0.059) and other groups [group A (2.125 ± 0.061), CX (2.167 ± 0.068), BX (2.250 ± 0.068)], suggesting that healing was greater in groups transplanted with MSC compared with control. However, healing between groups transplanted with MSC (A, CX, and BX) was not significantly different (P > 0.05). In conclusion, we have observed the healing potential of MSC in mouse model via allogeneic and xenogeneic MSC transplantation; the healing potential among the A, CX, and BX MSC groups was similar.

170 Effect of Folic Acid Supplementation on In Vitro Maturation of Oocytes and Folate Cycle

Folic acid (vitamin B9) is the principal component of one-carbon (C1) metabolism in mammalian cells. It acts as a coenzyme in C1 unit transfer during nucleotide and amino acid metabolism. Therefore, it is unquestionably essential for the formation of thymidylate (TMP) for DNA synthesis and methylation, which is in turn crucial for post-implantation embryonic brain and nerve chord development. However, the role of folic acid in maturation of oocytes and subsequent blastocyst production is largely ambiguous in different mammalian species. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of folic acid supplementation on expression of oocyte maturation markers and folate cycle enzymes in cumulus cells in addition to blastocyst development rate in goat. Immature oocytes were isolated from ovaries, and 1600 oocytes were matured in maturation medium (medium-199) supplemented with 0 (control), 50, 100, or 150 µM folic acid (Sigma Aldrich, India), comprising total 400 oocytes in each group in 5 replicates. The oocytes were in vitro fertilized and embryos were cultured for 7 days. Blastocyst rate was calculated in all 4 groups. Cumulus cells from matured oocytes from each group were analysed for the differential expression of oocyte maturation markers: PTX3, PTGS2, CTSB, and CTSS, and folate cycle enzyme transcripts MTR, MAT2A, ACHY, DHFR, and SLC19A1, by qRT-PCR. For statistical analysis, one-way ANOVA was used. The results of present study show that blastocyst rate was significantly higher (P ≤ 0.05) at 50 µM folic acid (21.4 ± 1.2%) compared with control (13.6 ± 0.4%), 100 µM (10.4 ± 0.34%), and 150 µM (7.4 ± 0.54%). However, there was no effect on the number of cleaved embryos among control (72 ± 0.21%), 50 µM (70.6 ± 0.58%), 100 µM (73.75 ± 0.31%), and 150 µM (73.02 ± 0.04%). The expression of the oocyte maturation markers PTX3 and PTGS2 was up-regulated, whereas that of CTSS and CTSSB was down-regulated (P ≤ 0.05), in the 50 µM group, but did not change (P ≤ 0.05) among the other groups. The expression of these genes did not change significantly among the other groups. The expression of genes of the folate cycle, MTR, MAT2A, ACHY, and DHFR, increased (P ≤ 0.05) by 5.7-, 3.6-, 2.2-, and 1.7-fold, respectively, at 50 µM, but did not change (P ≤ 0.05) among the other groups. The expression of SLC19A1 did not change significantly among all the groups. The results of present study show that the supplementation of 50 µM folic acid to the maturation medium results in increased maturation of oocytes, making them more competent for the blastocyst development. Up-regulation of transcripts of folate cycle enzymes at 50 µM might explain the increase in the blastocyst production rate, which further needs to be validated.

180 Increasing GfrA1-Positive Spermatogonial Stem Cell Population of Goat

Spermatogonial stem cells (SSC) form the basis of spermatogenesis and continuous fertility in male. Their meagre population in the testis is a hindrance in the in vitro study of biological activity of these cells. The objective of the present study was to isolate and characterise goat SSC and increase their number during in vitro culture by different methods. Two goat testes (3 to 4 months of age) were collected from the slaughterhouse and transported to the laboratory. The testes were washed and seminiferous tubules were collected and minced in the laminar flow hood. The seminiferous tubules were washed twice with PBS to remove spermatozoa and subjected to double enzymatic digestion (collagenase, 1 mg mL−1, hyaluronidase, 1 mg mL−1, trypsin, 0.05%, and DNaseI, 10 µg mL−1 for 45 min and second digestion with same set of enzymes except trypsin for 30 min). The isolated cells were filtered sequentially through nylon mesh filters of pore size 70 and 40 µm. The cells were plated on DSA-lectin coated dishes for 4 h and the unattached cells were cultured on a Sertoli cell feeder layer prepared by treating with mitomycin-C for 3 h. The cells were cultured in DMEM/F-12 supplemented with human recombinant growth factors (glial cell-derived neurotrpic factor, 10 ng mL−1, fibroblast growth factor FGF, 10 ng mL−1, epidermal growth factor, 20 ng mL−1), 10% fetal bovine serum, and antibiotics. The expression of pluripotency markers (Oct4, Nanog, Sox2) and SSC-specific markers (Thy1, GfrA1, and Uchl1) in the SSC colonies was determined by RT-PCR and immunostaining, after in vitro culture of 3 weeks. The SSC population was enhanced by differential plating, Percoll density gradient (on Day 1) and SSC passaging (by passaging SSC colonies on Day 20). The cells were tagged with GfrA1 antibody and their population was tested by flow cytometry. The SSC colonies started appearing after 7 days and continued to grow in size and number until 3 weeks. The SSC colonies were positive for the pluripotency markers Oct4, Nanog, and Sox2 by RT-PCR and immunostaining. The SSC were also positive for the SSC-specific markers Thy1, GfrA1, and Uchl1 by RT-PCR and immunostaining. Flow cytometry showed that the GfrA1-positive population in the SSC enriched by the differential plating was 11.23%, Percoll density gradient was 23.57%, and by passaging of SSC colonies, after picking and trypsinising with 0.05% trypsin, was 91.23%. In vitro culture of the SSC enriched by these methods also revealed that the number of SSC colonies appearing in the cells enriched by passaging was higher than the other methods. From the results of present study, we conclude that SSC are positive for markers of pluripotency and SSC-specific markers. The SSC population can be enhanced to a very high level following SSC passaging, which is an inexpensive method and does not require expensive instruments like fluorescence- or magnetic-activated cell sorting.

225 AUTOLOGOUS TRANSPLANTATION OF MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS DERIVED FROM ADIPOSE TISSUE IN ANIMAL

The present study was carried out for isolation and culture of adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells of goat (gADSC) and dogs (1 dog was suffering from hip dysplasia and another dog from paraplegia) and their characterisation with different markers. Adipose tissue of goat and dog were aseptically isolated and treated with collagenase for 2 h in a CO2 incubator. The enzymatic digested cells were filtered through a 41-µm filter and cells were resuspended in cell culture flask containing medium DMEM/F12, 10% fetal bovine serum, and 50 μg mL–1 gentamycin. In vitro-cultured ADSC were characterised by amplification of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-specific surface marker genes of CD44, CD29, and CD166 in PCR and by immunocytochemistry of MSC-specific marker of CD44. For in vitro chondrogenesis, ADSC at passage 3 were incubated in DMEM/F12 containing 100 nM dexamethasone, 1.25 μg mL–1 BSA, and 10 ng mL–1 BMP-4 ITS (insulin-transferrin-selenium) for 3 wk. Chondrogenic differentiation cells were confirmed by Safranin O staining and positive expression of chondrocyte-specific marker genes Aggrecan: primers F-TTGGACTTTGGCAGAATACC and R-CTTCCACCAATGTCGTATCC, and Collagen II: primers F-AACCCTGGAACTGACGGAAT and R-CTCACCCGTTTGACCTTTCG in PCR. Dog ADSC-derived chondrocytes were aseptically injected at 1 × 106 cells kg–1 of BW into dogs with hip dysplasia and paraplegia. Both dogs recovered well after 1 month of autologous transplantation and were able to move freely. Then, 10 dogs having massive wounds were injected with heterologous undifferentiated mesenchymal stem cells at 1 × 106 cells kg–1 of BW and all dogs were cured in an average of 20 days. Then, the paralyzed and fractured dogs were further treated with undifferentiated MSC at 1 × 106 cells kg–1 of BW and most of the dogs were cured properly. These findings may have implications for defining the physiological roles of ADSC in arthritis, some orthopaedic problems, joint regeneration, and neurological disorders and several new applications leading to novel therapeutic opportunities.

227 MESENCHYMAL STEM CELL ISOLATION AND CULTURE FROM ADIPOSE TISSUE OF A DEAD DOG

Isolation of cells or stem cells from clinically dead animals may serve applications such as revival of the animal through somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) or cryopreservation of their cells for a long period so that cells can be used in the future. Thus, combining isolation of cells from clinically dead animals and SCNT of germplasm of elite animals could benefit research into endangered or extinct species. In the present study, we tried to isolate and culture adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSC) from a clinically dead dog. Adipose tissues were collected surgically from the abdomen of a dead dog after 3 h and processed tissues within 10 h of death. The isolated tissues were washed in 70% ethanol for 30 s and washed 5 times in Dulbecco’s PBS supplemented with 50 µg mL–1 gentamicin. These fat tissues were minced to very small pieces and washed in DMEM by centrifugation at 800 rpm for 3 min. The tissue pellet was subjected to enzymatic digestion (collagenase 1 mg mL–1 of Dulbecco’s PBS) at 37°C in CO2 incubator for 1 h, with intermittent shaking after every 10 min. The digestive enzyme was inactivated by equal volume of DMEM/F-12 supplemented with fetal bovine serum (20%) and centrifuged at 1000 rpm for 10 min. The pellet was resuspended in DMEM/F-12 with 10% fetal bovine serum and cultured at 1 × 106 cells mL–1 in 25-cm2 tissue culture flasks. The medium was changed after every 48 h. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) were observed under an inverted microscope after 6 days. These cells were subcultured and a confluent monolayer was obtained. We have already standardized the protocol of MSC culture and characterisation as we are treating wounded and paralysed dogs using these MSC in a pet clinic. Characterisation of MSC was performed with specific surface marker genes of CD44, CD29, and CD166 in PCR and by immunocytochemistry of MSC-specific marker of CD44. Differentiation of these MSC into osteogenesis and chondrogenesis were observed after 3 weeks. Chondrogenic differentiation was confirmed by positive expression of chondrocyte-specific marker genes Aggrecan F-TTGGACTTTGGCAGAATACC and R-CTTCCACCAATGTCGTATCC and Collagen II F-AACCCTGGAACTGACGGAAT and R-CTCACCCGTTTGACCTTTCG primer in PCR. The MSC were cryopreserved after 80% confluency was reached. The monolayer cells were scraped out from the culture flask and pelleted down. The pellet was resuspended in DMEM containing 10% DMSO and 20% fetal bovine serum. The number of cells was determined by trypan blue staining using an automatic cell counter and 105 cells mL–1 were added to a 2-mL cryogenic vial. The cryogenic vials were kept in a cryobox at –80°C for slow cooling. Then these vials were transferred to liquid nitrogen tanks after 12 h for long-term storage. We conclude that ADSC were successfully cultured from adipose tissue of a dog within 10 h of death and further subcultured under in vitro conditions. The cells could be used for SCNT to revive the dead animal and cryopreserve these cells for use in the future.

208 CLONING AND CHARACTERIZATION OF BUFFALO INTERFERON-TAU AND EFFICACY OF RECOMBINANT BUFFALO INTERFERON-TAU FOR IN VITRO EMBRYO DEVELOPMENT

Interferon tau (IFN-tau) is known as maternal pregnancy recognition factor in ruminants. IFN-tau not only acts as a signalling molecule of pregnancy recognition but also performs various functions for successful implantation and pregnancy establishment. The aim of the present study was to produce recombinant buffalo interferon-tau (BuIFN-Tau) and observe if it has any effect on in vitro embryo development. The BuIFN-Tau gene was obtained through polymerase chain reaction (PCR) from hatched buffalo blastocysts and was cloned into pJET cloning vector. Screening of the recombinant colonies gave 8 distinct buffalo IFN-tau isoforms, out of which the predominant buffalo IFN-t tau1 isoform (gene bank accession number JX481984), was subcloned into expression vector pET22b without signal sequence. The recombinant plasmid was induced to express the recombinant protein by isopropyl b-D-1-thiogalactopyranoside. Analysis of the products of recombinant BuIFN-tau without signal sequence by SDS–PAGE revealed a new 20-kDa protein coinciding with the molecular weight of IFN-tau as reported earlier in literature. The purified recombinant BuIFN-tau was confirmed by Western blot using anti-HIS antibody and was subjected to three steps of large-scale purification using HIS affinity chromatography, anion exchange chromatography, and gel filtration chromatography. Finally, a relatively pure histidine-tagged recombinant protein, which had a purity of at least 90%, was generated as confirmed through SDS. The concentration of recombinant BuIFN-tau was 1 mg mL–1 by Bradford assay. The purified recombinant BuIFN-tau was used as supplement of the culture medium for IVF early buffalo embryos at the following concentrations: control, 1, 2, and 4 µg mL–1. Sixty oocytes each in 4 groups (with 20 oocytes/drop in three replicates for each group) were used for in vitro maturation. After 24 h, the matured oocytes were incubated with in vitro capacitated sperm cells for 18 h; thereafter, the presumptive zygotes were cultured in IVC medium supplemented with 0, 1, 2, or 4 µg mL–1 of the purified recombinant BuIFN-tau. The experiment was repeated 3 times. The data were analysed using SYSTAT 7.0 (SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA) after arcsin transformation of percentage values. The differences were analysed by one-way ANOVA followed by Fisher's least significant difference test. Out of 3 concentrations of recombinant BuIFN-tau, the 2 µg mL–1 concentration significantly promoted the rate of blastocyst development, 45.55% against 31.1% (control; P < 0.01). Blastocyst development rate for low and high concentrations was 29.97% and 10.18% respectively. It is concluded that the addition of 2 µg mL–1 of recombinant BuIFN-tau enhances the blastocyst development rate in buffalo, and hence there is some evidence that BuIFN-tau has not only a role in maternal recognition of pregnancy but also in embryonic development.

333 GENERATION OF OOCYTE-LIKE STRUCTURE FROM OVARIAN SURFACE EPITHELIAL STEM CELLS OF GOAT

Stem cells have potential for therapeutic application. Continuous repair of ovarian surface epithelium following folliculogenesis and ovarian carcinoma suggests the presence of stem cells in ovarian epithelial cells. In vitro gametogenesis in livestock will result in large numbers of oocytes production from a single ovary, resulting in faster multiplication of superior germplasm of livestock species, treatment of infertile animals, and conservation of endangered species. The present study was conducted with the objective of in vitro differentiation of putative ovarian surface epithelial stem cells into oocyte-like structures in goat model. Ovary samples of 1- to 2-year-old goats were collected from slaughterhouse. The surface of the ovary was gently scraped using sterile blunt scraper to isolate ovarian surface epithelial stem cells. These scraped cells were cultured in DMEM/F12 supplemented with 20% FBS for 3 weeks in 5% CO2 at 37°C with maximum humidity. The cultured stem cells were characterised for stemness by RT-PCR and immunostaining for Oct4, Sox2, and Nanog genes after 3 weeks. These putative stem cells were in vitro differentiated spontaneously to oocyte-like structures in DMEM/F12 medium and characterised for premeiotic markers by RT-PCR and immunostaining for VASA, DAZL, and STELLA genes. Results of this study provide evidence for the presence of putative stem cells with pluripotent characteristics in the ovarian surface epithelium. The cultured cells were found to be round in shape, with a high nucleus to cytoplasm ratio under inverted microscope, and found positive for stem cell markers of Oct4, Sox2, and Nanog genes. A total of 66 oocyte-like structures were produced from 12 ovaries. These oocyte-like structures were nearly similar to oocytes produced in vivo, both morphologically and in molecular gene expression. The oocyte-like structures were also found positive for premeiotic markers of VASA, DAZL, and STELLA genes by RT-PCR and immunostaining. From this study, we concluded that the ovarian surface epithelial cells have putative stem cells which can be in vitro differentiated into oocyte-like structures in goat. These oocyte-like structures need further characterisation of their surface membrane, more molecular markers, and following their developmental potential. These oocytes can help for multiplication of elite germplasm, curing infertile animals, and saving endangered species.

120 IDENTIFICATION OF THE RELATIVELY PREDOMINANT BUFFALO INTERFERON tau ISOFORM AND ITS EXPRESSION IN ESCHERICHIA COLI

The maternal pregnancy recognition factor interferon tau (IFN-τ) is expressed in multiple isoforms in all pecoran ruminant species. Interferon-τ, as the first pregnancy signaling molecule, performs a significant role in implantation as well as establishment of pregnancy. Due to low reproductive efficiency of buffalo compared with bovine and IFN-τ being the key molecule of reproductive physiology in ruminants, the objective of our study was framed to identify the various IFN-τ transcripts in buffalo embryonic trophoblast cells, to know their relative abundance to identify the relatively predominant isoform, and lastly to clone and express it in a heterologous host. Following total cellular RNA extraction from primary trophectodermal cells, RT-PCR was performed using gene-specific primers designed against known bovine IFN-τ sequence. Cloning of the amplified product and screening of the recombinant colonies gave 13 distinct cDNA variants that encoded for 8 distinct buffalo IFN-τ isoforms. These buffalo IFN-τ isoforms have a greater nucleotide and amino acid homology with caprine IFN-τ (98–100% and 96–100%) than ovine (94–97% and 90–95%) and bovine (89.6–90.6% and 82–86%), respectively. The novel buffalo IFN-τ isoforms showed pronounced nucleotide and amino acid sequence identity with one another (99.1–99.8% and 98–99%) but only moderate identity with previously identified buffalo IFN-τ (90–92% and 82–86%). All the 13 transcript sequences were accepted in GenBank. Out of 8 isoforms, buffalo IFN-τ1 has been found to be the relatively predominant, which was subcloned into expression vector pET 22b without signal sequence from pJET cloning vector and expressed in competent BL21 (DE3) Escherichia coli strain. Expression of the recombinant protein in soluble form was induced by isopropyl β-D-1-thiogalactopyranoside (0.1 mM) at 30°C for 6 h. The recombinant BuIFN-τ obtained was confirmed by Western blot using anti-HIS antibody. A new 20-kDa protein was detected coinciding the molecular weight of IFN-τ reported earlier in literature. In conclusion, the current study revealed that there are 8 different isoforms of IFN-τ that are expressed in trophectodermal out-growths during early pregnancy of buffalo. Predominantly found isoform IFN-τ 1 was expressed in pET 22b vector, and recombinant soluble protein was confirmed by Western blot.

198 ISOLATION, CHARACTERIZATION, AND IN VITRO DIFFERENTIATION OF GOAT ADIPOSE-TISSUE-DERIVED MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS INTO PANCREATIC ISLETS-LIKE CELLS

The present study was carried out for isolation of goat (Capra hircus) adipose-tissue-derived stem cells (gADSCs) from adipose tissue, their characterization, and in vitro differentiation of gADSCs into pancreatic islets-like cells by giving conditioned medium. Goat ADSCs were isolated from goat adipose tissue by the enzymatic digestion method and were enriched by filtering through a 41-μm filter. Thus, filtered cells resuspended in a cell culture flask containing growth enriching medium and cultured in 5% CO2 in air at 38.5°C. Goat ADSCs were characterised by amplification of mesenchymal stem cell specific markers i.e. CD29, CD34, CD44, CD90, and CD166 as positive markers and CD41 and CD71 as negative markers. Immunocytochemistry of mesenchymal stem cell was also carried out with specific markers CD44 and CD90. Goat ADSCs were further characterised by in vitro differentiating them into osteocytes, chondrocytes, and adipocytes. For in vitro differentiation of gADSCs into osteocytes gADSCs were supplemented with conditioned medium i.e. DMEM containing fetal bovine serum (FBS), dexamethazone, B-glycerol phosphate and L-ascorbic acid. Osteogenic differentiation was confirmed by positive Alizarin red S staining and amplification of Osteopontin and Collagen I genes. For differentiation into chondrocytes cells, gADSCs were incubated in DMEM/F12 containing dexamethazone, ITX, BMP-4, and FBS for 21 days. Differentiated cells were confirmed by positive Safranin O staining and expression of chondrocytes specific Collagen III and Aggrecan genes. For adipogenesis, gADSCs were incubated with DMEM/F12 containing FBS, dexamethasone, and ITX and differentiated cells were confirmed by positive Oil Red O staining and amplification of adipocytes specific genes i.e. LPL, PPRγ and PPRα. For in-vitro differentiation gADSCs into pancreatic islets-like cells on the third or fourth passage gADSCs were incubated in conditioned medium containing serum-free DMEM/F12 medium with glucose (17.5 mM) in the presence of nicotinamide (10 mM), activin-A (2 nM), exendin-4 (10 nM), pentagastrin (10 nM), retinoic acid (10 μM) and mercaptoethanol (20 μM). The in vitro differentiation gADSCs into pancreatic islets-like cells was confirmed by amplification of pancreatic endoderm specific genes i.e. igf-1, sst, ngn3, pdx-1, isl-1, c-kit, thy-1, and Glut-2, and no expression was detected for above endoderm specific genes in undifferentiated gADSCs. Pancreatic islets-like cells were further characterised by immunostaining and Western blotting of Pdx-1, insulin, and Islets-1 specific protein. It could be concluded that gADSCs was differentiated into different lineages and secretory insulin was produced from pancreatic islets-like cells.

199 GERM-CELL-LIKE CELLS GENERATION FROM GOAT INDUCED PLURIPOTENT STEM CELLS

Primordial germ cells (PGCs) generated from embryonic stem (ES) cells in different species may be an alternative approach to dealing with the worldwide problem of increasing female infertility. Reprogramming of fibroblasts into induced pluripotent stem cells has been achieved by overexpression of different transcription factors. Here, we report the generation of female goat germ cells from goat induced pluripotent stems cells (giPSC). Goat induced pluripotent stem cells (giPSC) were produced by transduction of adult female goat fibroblast cells with Oct4, Sox2, and Nanog lentiviral particles and further sub-cultured on fibroblast feeder layers. GiPSC were characterised by different methods. These iPSC were found to express alkaline phosphatase, SSEA1, SSEA4, Tra-1–81, and Tra-1–60 surface markers. However, SSEA3 was not observed in giPSC. GiPSC also expressed Oct4, Nanog, and Sox2. Along with Oct4, Nanog, and Sox2, the expression of different transcription factors such as Cdx1, Dapp5, Dax1, Ecat, Eras, Fgf4, Gata6, Lin28, Rex1, and Utf1 was confirmed by RT-PCR. GiPSC were in vitro differentiated and three germ layers were characterised by immunostaining of Gata4 for endoderm, α-Actinin for mesoderm, and β-III tubulin for ectoderm and RT-PCR analysis of GATA4, α-Actinin and BMP4. IPSCs were directed differentiated into germ cells using retinoic acid and bone morphogenetic protein 4 without the inactivation of exogenous factors as these are also required for germ cells development. Differentiated germ cells were characterised by immunostaining against VASA and Dazl proteins. RT–PCR assay was performed for Dazl, Nanog, Nanos1, PUM8, SCP3, Stella, and VASA genes expression. Quantitative PCR was also performed for detection of VASA and Dazl expression during the course of germ cell differentiation. Flow-cytometric analysis of differentiated germ cells was confirmed the presence of germ cells in population of differentiated giPSC. Oocytes/ova-like structures, which were comparable to natural goat oocytes, were observed under scanning electron microscope (SEM). Cumulus–oocyte complex like structure was observed, which was further used for SEM. The study concluded that adult female goat fibroblast cells can be reprogrammed into induced pluripotent stem cells using ectopic expression of Oct4, Nanog, and Sox2 genes and the germ-cells-like cells generated from reprogrammed giPSC could be differentiated into goat oocytes/ova-like structure which have immense applications in human and animal reproduction.

204 ISOLATION, CHARACTERIZATION, AND DIFFERENTIATION OF ADIPOSE TISSUE DERIVED MESENCHYMAL STEM CELLS: AN AUTOLOGOUS TRANSPLANTATION TO PATIENTS

Adult stem cells derived from all possible sources of livestock serve as the best possible alternative to embryonic stem cells. The discovery of mesenchymal stem cells has provided the new horizon to stem cell therapy. Adipose tissue derived mesenchymal stem cell (ADSCs), an easy source of adult stem cell has created a lot of interest among researchers as patient specific treatment and autologous transplantation in animals is becoming a viable option. The proposed study was carried out for 1) isolation of ADSCs from dogs, suffering from hip dysplasia or from paraplegia, 2) ADSC characterisation and in vitro differentiation ability into osteocytes, chondrocytes, adipocytes and neurocytes specific cells. Adipose tissues were collected from belly/umbilical cord region. ADSCs were isolated by enzymatic digestion method followed by enriching through a 41 μm filter. Filtered cells were then resuspended in cell culture flasks containing growth enriching medium and cultured in 5% CO2 in air at 37°C for 5 days. ADSCs were characterised by amplification of mesenchymal stem cell specific markers i.e. CD29, CD44, CD90, and CD166 and by immunocytochemistry of mesenchymal stem cell specific protein i.e. CD44 and CD90. ADSCs were further in vitro differentiated. ADSCs derived osteocytes, chondrocytes, and adipocytes were validated through the amplification of specific markers of osteocytes (Osteopontin, Collagen I); chondrocytes (Aggrecan and Collagen II) and adipocytes (LPL, PPARα, PPARγ). Dog ADSCs were further autogenic transplanted into hip dysplasia and paraplegic patients. These patients recovered well one month from transplantation and were able to move freely. It may be concluded that these findings may have implications for defining the physiological roles of ADSCs in arthritis; orthopaedic ailments, joint regeneration, neuronal disorders, and several other applications leading to novel therapeutic opportunities.

Effect of actin polymerization inhibitor during oocyte maturation on parthenogenetic embryo development and ploidy in Capra hircus

This study was designed to observe the effect of cytochalasin B (CCB) concentrations on ploidy and early development of parthenogenetic embryos in a caprine species. Caprine oocytes were matured in the presence of different concentrations of CCB (5, 10, 15, and 20 μg/ml) and activated by 7% ethanol followed by incubation with 2 mM DMAP. For embryos fertilized in vitro, oocytes were matured in maturation medium without CCB. The cleavage rate and further embryo development were significantly higher (P < 0.05) when oocytes were treated in this way. The percentage of embryos showed higher diploid values in 15 μg/ml CCB (83.66 ± 1.13), followed by 20 (72.22 ± 1.22), 10 (68.57 ± 1.17), and 5 μg/ml (62.00 ± 2.48). These results indicate that CCB with a concentration of 15 μg/ml in maturation medium can be used for the production of diploid parthenogenetic embryos in the caprine species.

Selection of suitable reference genes for quantitative gene expression studies in milk somatic cells of lactating cows (Bos indicus)

We assessed the suitability of 9 internal control genes (ICG) in milk somatic cells of lactating cows to find suitable reference genes for use in quantitative PCR (qPCR). Eighteen multiparous lactating Sahiwal cows were used, 6 in each of 3 lactation stages: early (25 ± 5 d in milk), mid (160 ± 15 d in milk), and late (275 ± 25 d in milk) lactation. Nine candidate reference genes [glyceraldehyde 3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH), protein phosphatase 1 regulatory subunit 11 (PPP1R11), β-actin (ACTB), β-2 microglobulin (B2M), 40S ribosomal protein S15a (RPS15A), ubiquitously expressed transcript (UXT), mitochondrial GTPase 1 (MTG1), 18S rRNA (RN18S1), and ubiquitin (UBC)] were evaluated. Three genes, β-casein (CSN2), lactoferrin (LTF), and cathelicidin (CAMP) were chosen as target genes. Very high amplification was observed in 7 ICG and very low level amplification was observed in 2 ICG (UXT and MTG1). Thus, UXT and MTG1 were excluded from further analysis. The qPCR data were analyzed by 2 software packages, geNorm and NormFinder, to determine suitable reference genes, based on their stability and expression. Overall, PPP1R11, ACTB, UBC, and GAPDH were stably expressed among all candidate reference genes. Therefore, these genes could be used as ICG for normalization of qPCR data in milk somatic cells through lactation.

294 PRODUCTION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF PUTATIVE NUCLEAR TRANSFER EMBRYONIC STEM CELLS DERIVED FROM HANDMADE CLONED EMBRYOS USING EMBRYONIC STEM CELLS, LYMPHOCYTES, AND ADULT FIBROBLAST CELLS AS DONOR CELLS IN GOAT

The handmade cloning technique has been a relatively recent addition in the field of nuclear transfer. In the present study, attempts were made to efficiently derive stem cells from handmade cloned (HMC) embryos in goat using adult fibroblast cells, embryonic stem (ES) cells, and lymphocytes as donor cells, and to characterise the derived putative nuclear transfer ES (ntES) cells for their stemness. Efficiency of the donor cells for nuclear transfer was also compared, and an overall cleavage and morula formation rates of 62.44 ± 3.9% and 35.30 ± 3.86%, 75.45 ± 3.92% and 45.84 ± 3.86%, and 56.38 ± 3.92% and 29.09 ± 3.86% were obtained from adult fibroblasts, ES cells, and lymphocytes, respectively. A significant difference was found between ES cells and the other 2 donor cells in terms of cleavage and morula formation. However, no such difference existed between fibroblasts and lymphocyte donor cells. Stem cell colonies were successfully derived from HMC embryos obtained from all 3 different donor cells. The rate of primary colony formation was 61.66 ± 4.62% for fibroblast-donor-cell-derived embryos. This rate was 59.91 ± 4.62% for ES-donor-cell-derived embryos and 62.49 ± 4.62% for lymphocyte-donor-cell-derived embryos. The putative ntES colonies were positively characterised for TRA-1-60, TRA-1-81, SSEA-1, SSEA-4, OCT-4, SOX-2, and Nanog by immunocytochemistry and RT-PCR. Results indicated that ES cells had better efficiency as donor cells in cloned embryo production than did adult fibroblasts and lymphocytes. The finding also suggested that terminally differentiated cell-like lymphocytes can also be reprogrammed. Moreover, there was no difference between the different donor-cell-derived HMC embryos in terms of ntES cell derivation. The study has established an efficient protocol for putative ntES cell derivation from HMC embryos. This could be of substantial significance because patient-specific ntES cells have proven therapeutic significance. The authors acknowledge N.D.R.I for the financial and infrastructural assistance.

304 RHYTHMIC BEATING OF HEART MUSCLE GENERATED FROM GOAT EMBRYONIC STEM CELLS

The aim of the present study was to isolate, culture, and characterise goat embryonic stem cell (ESC)-like cells from in vitro fertilized goat embryos. Oocytes were collected from slaughterhouse goat ovaries, and IVF was performed with standard protocol. A total of 60.48% cleavage, 24.01% morulae, 11.35% blastocyst, and 3.4% hatched blastocyst were obtained. Goat ESC-like cells were isolated from individual blastomere cells of early embryos after 2 mg mL–1 of pronase treatment and inner cell mass (ICM) of blastocyst. The ICM were isolated mechanically from 80 expanded blastocysts and 20 hatched blastocysts and enzymatically from 45 expanded blastocysts and 20 hatched blastocysts. The primary colony formation was obtained mechanically from expanded blastocysts (66%) and hatched blastocysts (90%) and enzymatically from expanded blastocysts (30%) and hatched blastocysts (73%). The ICM were cultured on 10 μg mL–1 of mitomycin-C inactivated fetal fibroblast feeder layer and with leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) without feeder layer. Embryonic stem cells were cultured and characterised by immunofluorescence of surface markers such as alkaline phosphatase, Oct-4, SSEA-1, SSEA-3, SSEA-4 and intracellular molecular markers Oct-4, Sox2, Nanog. The primary colony formation was significantly higher when hatched blastocysts (90%) were used for ICM than when expanded blastocysts (66%), morulae (15%), and single blastomere (10%) were used. Five goat ESC lines were produced, which were maintained undifferentiated on a feeder layer in ESC medium containing LIF up to 5th, 7th, 10th, 20th, and 22nd passages. Three goat ESC lines were also produced in ESC medium containing LIF without feeder layer and maintained undifferentiated up to 5th, 10th, and 12th passages. All the cell lines expressed alkaline phophatase and OCT-4, at 5th, 10th, 15th, and 20th passages. The ESC of passage 20 were used for embryoid body formation for 3 days. The embryoid bodies were cultured to induce differentiation in medium contain activin-A, fibroblast growth factor-2, and BMP-4. The embryoid bodies were analysed with molecular markers such as Gata, BMP4, and Nestin and were found positive. The cardiac tissues were also observed to be positive with cardiac-specific molecular markers such as α actinin, troponin, and α-myosin heavy chain and its histology. The rhythmic beating was found after 30 days of culture, and the beating was still continuing after 42 days. These goat ESC were cryopreserved into LN2 for a long period of time for further use in the future. It could be concluded that goat ESC were maintained undifferentiated up to 22nd passage with feeder layer and 12th passages without feeder layer using LIF only. Cardiomyocyte rhythmic beating of heart muscle was generated from goat ESC. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time beating has been observed in goat ESC cardiomyocytes in the world. The authors have not found any report on animals such as cattle, buffalo, sheep, and pig, except mouse, monkey, and human being.

305 CONSTRUCTION OF TRANSCRIPTION FACTOR GENES FOR REPROGRAMMING OF ADULT GOAT FIBROBLAST CELLS FOR PRODUCTION OF INDUCED PLURIPOTENT STEM CELLS

Embryonic stem cells (ESC) are derived from the inner cell mass of blastocysts and proliferate extensively while maintaining pluripotency. They can be used for the treatment of juvenile diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, heart failure, and spinal cord injury. However, the use of embryos and tissue rejection remain concerns for ESC transplantation. Reprogramming of somatic cells may be done by different methods such as somatic cell nuclear transfer (Wilmut et al. 1997), fusion of somatic cells (Cowen et al. 2005), treatment with the extract of the pluripotent stem cells (Johnson Rajasingh 2008), and by the stable ectopic expression of defined factors in the somatic cells (Takahashi and Yamanaka 2006). Several transcription factors, including Oct3/4 (Nichols et al. 1998; Niwa et al. 2000), Sox2 (Avilion et al. 2003), and Nanog (Chambers et al. 2003; Mitsui et al. 2003), function in the maintenance of pluripotency in both early embryos and ESC. Takahashi and Yamanaka reported reprogramming the fibroblast cells into stem cells by introducing Oct3/4, Sox2, c-Myc, and Klf4 in mouse embryonic and adult fibroblasts. Yu et al. (2007) demonstrated that four transcription factors (OCT-4, SOX2, NANOG, and LIN28) are sufficient to reprogramme human somatic cells to pluripotent stem cells that exhibit the essential characteristics of ESC. Nakagawa et al. (2008) used three factors (OCT3/4, SOX2, and KLF4) for human iPS cell production from somatic cells. We are trying to reprogramme the adult goat fibroblast cells in induced pluripotent stem cells by using ectopic expression of transcription factors such as Oct-4, Sox2, Nanog, and Lin28. We collected the ovaries from a slaughtered animal from Delhi and collected the oocytes from ovaries. Then after the collection, A and B grade oocytes were selected. Selected oocytes were processed and incubated in in vitro maturation media for 24 h. We collected semen from a male goat, and it was processed and capacitated in sperm TALP. Capacitated sperms were used for IVF of the in vitro matured oocytes in ferTALP. After 12 h sperm were washed from oocytes in embryo developing media (EDM), and oocytes were cultured (in vitro) in EDM. After 24 h cleavage occurred. The cleaved embryos were cultured for 6 to 7 days. At the 7th day, we got blastocysts. From these blastocysts, inner cell mass was isolated enzymatically and cultured to get ESC. The ESC were cultured for 7 passages and used for RNA isolation. The RNA was isolated from these stem cells by the Trizol method. Complementary DNA was prepared by RT-PCR. Using gene-specific primer for Oct-4, Nanog, and Sox2, DNA was amplified. The DNA for the Oct-4, Nanog, and Sox2 genes was cloned in pJET cloning vector and transformed in Top10 E. coli competence cells. After screening, plasmid was isolated and sent for sequencing. Sequences were analysed and the complete open reading frame was created for Oct-4, Nanog, and Sox2.

Purification, sequence characterization and effect of goat oviduct-specific glycoprotein on in vitro embryo development

Oviduct-specific glycoprotein (oviductin) plays an important role during fertilization and early embryonic development. The oviductin cDNA was successfully cloned and sequenced in goat, which possessed an open reading frame of 1620 nucleotides representing 539 amino acids. Predicted amino acid sequence showed very high identity with sheep (97%) followed by cow (94%), porcine (77%), hamster (69%), human (66%), rabbit (65%), mouse (64%) and baboon (62%). The bioinformatics analysis of the sequences revealed the presence of a signal sequence of 21 amino acids, one potential N-linked glycosylation site at position 402, 21 potential O-linked glycosylation sites and 36 potential phosphorylation sites. The native oviductin was purified from the oviductal tissue, which showed three distinct bands on SDS-PAGE and western blot (MW ~60-95 kDa). The predicted molecular weight of goat oviductin was 57.5 kDa, calculated from the amino acid sequences. The observed higher molecular weight has been attributed to the presence of large number of potential O-linked glycosylation sites. The lower concentration (10 μg/mL) of oviductin increased the cleavage rate, morula and blastocyst yield significantly (P < 0.05) as compared to higher concentration (100 μg/mL). Goat oviductin retarded the activity of pronase (0.1%) on zona solubility of oocytes significantly (P < 0.01).

150 DEVELOPMENT OF ZONA-FREE AND WITH ZONA PARTHENOGENETIC GOAT EMBRYOS IN DIFFERENT MEDIA

The present study was carried out to see the developmental efficiency of zona-free and with zona parthenogenetic goat embryos cultured in Research Vitro Cleave from Cook Australia (RVCL), Embryo Development Media (EDM), modified synthetic oviductal fluid (mSOF), and modified Charles Rosenkrans media (mCR2a). Zona-free embryos were cultured in 4 media, whereas with zona embryos were cultured in 3 media except mCR2a. Ovaries were collected from slaughterhouse and oocytes were isolated by puncturing the follicles in medium containing Dulbecco’s phosphate-buffered saline, 3% BSA, and 50 μg mL-1 gentamicin. Oocytes were matured in maturation medium containing TCM-199 (HEPES modified), 0.05 mg mL-1 Na pyruvate, 0.003 mg mL-1 L-glutamine, 5.5 mg mL-1 glucose, 3 mg mL-1 BSA, 5 μg mL-1 FSH, 10 μg mL-1 LH, 1 μg mL-1 estradiol-17β, 50 μg mL-1 gentamicin, and 10% FBS in 5% CO2 in air at 38.5°C. The COC (15 to 20 oocytes) were placed in 100-μL droplets of maturation medium and incubated in a CO2 incubator (5% CO2 in air) with maximum humidity at 38.5°C for 27 h. Matured oocytes were made cumulus free by treatment with hyaluronidase (0.5 mg mL-1) and zona-free by pronase (2 mg mL-1) in zona-free parthenogenesis. Then the oocytes were activated by 5 μM Ca ionophore for 5 min in a CO2 incubator and then treated with 2 mM 6-DMAP for 4 h. Activation was also done by electrical activation with DC 1.78 kV cm-1, 20 μs, and 2 pulses. Then the zona-free oocytes were kept for in vitro culture in 4 types of media such as RVCL, EDM, mSOF, andm CR2a for 7 days in 5% CO2 in air at 38.5°C. The cleavage rate andmorulae formation were observed in RVCL 40.95%, 13.95%, in EDM 46.92%, 14.75%, in mCR2a 56.66%, 5.88%, and in mSOF 48.23%, 14.63%, respectively. The cleavage rate and morulae formation were also found 55.9%, 14.63% during chemical activation and 32%, 12.5% in electrical activation. Hence, better result was found in chemical activation than electrical activation. For with zona parthenogenesis, the matured oocytes were chemically activated by 5 μM Ca ionophore for 5 min and 2 mM 6-DMAP for 4 h. Then the oocytes were cultured in RVCL, EDM, and mSOF in 100-μL micro-drops media for 7 days. The cleavage, morulae, and early blastocyst production rate were as follows: cleavage rate 75.68%, 72.03%, and 57.11%; morulae 44.61%, 30.29%, and 40.22%; and early blastocyst 17.49%, 11.88%, and 25.01% in RVCL, EDM, and mSOF, respectively. Hatched blastocyst formation rate was 6.75%, 5.48%, and 1.15% in RVCL, EDM, and mSOF, respectively. It could be concluded that zona-free parthenogenetic embryos were produced better in EDM medium and with chemical activation. With zona parthenogenetic embryo development was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in RVCL and EDM media.

59 PRODUCTION OF HANDMADE CLONED GOAT EMBRYOS WITH TWO TYPES OF DONOR CELLS AND CULTURED IN THREE MEDIA

The study was carried out to see the developmental efficiency of handmade cloned goat embryos with 3 different media: RVCL (Research Vitro Cleave, Cook, Brisbane, Australia), EDM (Embryo Development Media) and modified SOF (mSOF) and 2 types of donor cells: fetal fibroblast and adult fibroblast. Oocytes were isolated from abattoir goat ovaries, matured in maturation medium, and incubated in 5% CO2 in air at 38.5°C for 24 h. Then, the oocytes were made cumulus free by treatment with hyaluronidase (0.5 mg mL-1) and zona free by pronase (2 mg mL-1). Protrusion cone formation in oocytes was found 95 to 100% in T20 (TCM-199 + 20% FBS). The zona-free oocytes were bisected with an ultra-sharp micro blade on the basis of visible protrusion cones on the surface of oocytes using T20 medium containing 2.5 μg mL-1 cytochalasin-B. Fetal and adult fibroblast cells were used from confluent monolayer at passage 5 after trypsinizing in 0.25% trypsin-EDTA. One somatic cell was attached with one enucleated demioocyte by phytohemagglutinin and further fused with another enucleated demioocyte through electric pulse with a combination of alternating current (4 V) and direct current (2.10 kV cm-1 for 5 μs with a single pulse) in fusion medium (0.3 M mannitol, 0.1 mM MgCl2, 0.05 mM CaCl2, and 3 mg mL-1 BSA). Then, triplets were chemically activated with 5 μM Ca ionophore for 5 min and 2 mM 6-DMAP for 4 h and cultured in the 3 media. Cleavage and morulae formation were observed at Day 7 from 183 triplets with fetal fibroblasts as donor cells in media RVCL (78.60 ± 2.23, 38.97 ± 2.1), mSOF (72.62 ± 1.89, 33.81 ± 1.9), and EDM (73.96 ± 1.66, 26.20 ± 2.04), respectively. Simultaneously, cleavage and morulae formation were observed at Day 7 from 203 triplets with adult fibroblasts as donor cells in media RVCL (73.97 ± 3.57, 33.14 ± 2.68), mSOF (76.22 ± 4.36, 26.15 ± 0.99), and EDM (65.97 ± 3.11, 20.78 ± 2.77), respectively. Among the 3 media, morulae formation was significantly higher in RVCL. Hence, in the subsequent experiment, RVCL medium was used exclusively in culture for 172 triplets. Cleavage and morulae formation at Day 7 was not significantly different (P < 0.05) in 2 types of donor cells; fetal fibroblasts (77.46 ± 3.65, 38.70 ± 2.66) and adult fibroblasts (75.74 ± 3.04, 33.77 ± 1.43), respectively. The data were analyzed using SYSTAT 7.0 (Systat, SPSS Inc., Chicago, IL, USA) after arcsine transformation, one-way ANOVA followed by Fisher’s LSD test. PCR analysis was performed with highly polymorphic 286-bp fragment of MHC-II DRB gene of cloned embryo and its donor cell. Similar bands were observed in both the cloned embryos and fibroblast cells in agar gel electrophoresis. In conclusion, development of handmade cloned embryos was higher in RVCL medium compared with the other two media tested, and efficiency of morulae formation was similar in both types of donor cells. Further study is required to optimize blastocyst production.

Stem cell-like outgrowths from in vitro fertilized goat blastocysts

With an aim to isolate, culture and characterize goat embryonic stem cell-like cells derived from in vitro fertilized goat blastocysts, slaughterhouse derived goat oocytes were in vitro matured in maturation medium in 5% CO2 air at 38.5 degrees C. Matured oocytes were fertilized in vitro with fresh capacitated spermatozoa. Total 636 (36.5%) cleaved embryos were obtained which were further co-cultured with goat oviductal epithelial cells (GOEC) for 7-10 days. GOEC culture system was better for formation of morula (150; 44.3%) and hatched blastocyst (13; 3.8%) than embryo development medium culture system, [morula (69; 23.1%) and hatched blastocyst (5; 1.6%)]. Out of total blastocysts (48) the primary colonies were formed in 23.3% (7/30) blastocysts, and 66.6% (12/18) of hatched blastocysts. The cells of the inner cell mass (ICM) derived primary colonies were small, aggregated and tightly packed in nature forming embryoid bodies on further subculture. The colonies were stained to see the expression of alkaline phosphatase and positive result was obtained. Goat embryonic stem cell like outgrowths were also characterized for Oct-4 expression and positive result was found. It could be concluded that ICM cells were isolated from in vitro fertilized goat blastocysts and cultured for embryonic stem cell-like cells and expression of alkaline phosphatase and Oct-4 in these cells were positive.

23 PRODUCTION OF HANDMADE CLONED GOAT BLASTOCYSTS USING FETAL FIBROBLAST CELLS

Nuclear transfer is a very effective method for propagation of desired, extinct, and endangered animals as well as for the production of 100% transgenic animals. Enucleated oocytes and somatic cells are required for nuclear cloning. For enucleation, DNA-specific stains are used for visualization of the metaphase (MII) plate in matured oocytes under UV illumination in both micromanipulator-based and handmade cloning techniques. The present study was carried out to produce cloned goat embryos using the handmade cloning approach. Fetal fibroblast cells were used as nuclear donors (passages 3–4). Oocytes were collected from slaughterhouse-derived ovaries and matured in maturation medium (TCM-199 (HEPES modified), 5 µg mL–1 FSH, 10 µg mL–1 LH, 1 µg mL–1 estradiol-17β, 50 µg mL–1 gentamicin, 3 mg mL–1 BSA, and 10% inactivated estrus goat serum) at 38.5�C in 5% CO2 in air with maximum humidity for 24 h. We observed that the formation of transparent protrusion cones on the surface of the in vitro-matured goat oocytes was clearly visible under the stereomicroscope after zona digestion with 2 mg mL–1 pronase. The extent of protrusion cone formation in matured oocytes was 95–100% within 20–30 min in handling medium T 20 (TCM-199 + 20% FCS). The MII plate in the protrusion cone was confirmed (100%) after Hoechst 33342 staining and subsequent UV illumination under the inverted microscope. Zona-free oocytes were bisected on the basis of the protrusion cone by a microblade in medium (T 20 + 2.5 µg mL–1 cytochalasin B) for enucleation. Enucleated demi-oocytes were selected which had no protrusion cone and were without staining. Fetal fibroblasts from confluent monolayers were used. Two demi-oocytes were coupled with one trypsinized fetal fibroblast cell using 200 µg mL–1 phytohemagglutinin. The triplets were fused together with a combination of alternating current (7 V) and direct current (2.31 kV cm–1 for 15 µs with a double pulse) in fusion medium (0.3 m mannitol, 0.1 mM MgSO4, 0.05 mm CaCl2, and 3 mg mL–1 BSA). Four h after fusion, reconstructed oocytes were activated by using 2 µm Ca Ionophore for 5 min at room temperature and incubated with 2 mm 6-dimethylaminopurine at 38.5�C in 5% CO2 in air for 3 h. Activated reconstructed embryos were cultured in embryo development medium (TCM-199, 10% FCS, essential and nonessential amino acids, and 10 mg mL–1 BSA) in the well of the well (WOW) culture system (Vajta et al. 2000 Mol. Reprod. Dev. 55, 258–264) at 38.5�C in 5% CO2 in air. In the present study, fusion, cleavage, and morula and blastocyst formation rates were 180/200 (90%), 72/180 (40%), 56/72 (77%), and 6/56 (11%), respectively. Further studies will be required to optimize blastocyst production. In conclusion, the protrusion cone formation in matured goat oocytes made it convenient for bisection and enucleation without Hoechst staining and UV light exposure, enabling the production of goats from handmade somatic cell cloning. The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, India, has provided a fellowship to the first author to carry out this research work.

279 COMPARISON OF DIFFERENT METHODS OF ISOLATION OF EMBRYONIC STEM CELL-LIKE CELLS FROM IN VITRO-PRODUCED GOAT BLASTOCYSTS

The present study was carried out to compare different isolation procedures for embryonic stem (ES) cell-like cells from in vitro-produced goat blastocysts. Goat oocytes were aspirated from slaughterhouse-derived ovaries; matured in vitro in maturation medium containing TCM-199 (HEPES modified) with 5 µg mL–1 FSH, 10 µg mL–1 LH, 1 µg mL–1 estradiol-17β, BSA, and 10% estrous goat serum; and fertilized by freshly collected buck semen. The fertilized oocytes were cultured in embryo development medium containing TCM-199 (HEPES modified), 50 µg mL–1 sodium pyruvate, 3.5 µg mL–1 L-glutamine, gentamicin, essential amino acids, nonessential amino acids, BSA, and 10% fetal calf serum, along with goat oviductal cells for further development. A total of 250 blastocysts and 50 hatched blastocysts were used to isolate and culture goat ES cell-like cells. Inner cell mass cells (ICMs) were isolated mechanically from 100 blastocysts and 20 hatched blastocysts and enzymatically from 50 blastocysts and 15 hatched blastocysts. The ICMs were cultured on 10 µg mL–1 mitomycin-C-inactivated goat fetal fibroblast feeder layer. Primary colony formation was significantly higher (P < 0.01) when hatched blastocysts were used for ICM isolation (28/35; 80%) than when blastocysts were used (77/150; 51.3%). However, when ICMs were isolated mechanically, the percentage of primary colony formation was significantly higher (P < 0.01) for blastocysts (66/100; 66%) as well as for hatched blastocysts (18/20; 90%) than when ICMs were isolated enzymatically (15/50; 30%, and 11/15; 73%), respectively, for blastocysts and hatched blastocysts. ES cell-like cells were also isolated from intact blastocysts and intact hatched blastocysts. But the primary colony formation (27/100; 27%), and (6/15; 40%), respectively, was significantly low (P < 0.01) compared to that for mechanically isolated ICMs. Statistical analysis was done by chi-squire test. When the putative ES cell-like cells were subcultured enzymatically (0.25% trypsin–EDTA), they differentiated after 3 passages. However, when the mechanical subculture procedure was followed, the ES cell-like cells maintained their pluripotent state up to the 9th passage, and three goat ES cell-like cell lines were produced (gES-1, gES-2, and gES-3). The putative ES cell-like cells were stained with alkaline phosphatase substrate solution (Sigma, St. Louis, MO, USA). The RT-PCR mediated expression of Oct-4 was done by a special kit Cells-to-cDNA™ II (Ambion, Austin, TX, USA). The ES cell-like cells expressed both alkaline phosphatase and Oct-4. It may be concluded that mechanical isolation of hatched goat blastocysts is the best method for isolation of goat embryonic stem cell-like cells, and they are positive for alkaline phosphatase and Oct-4.

209 PRODUCTION OF IN VITRO-FERTILIZED INTERSPECIES BLASTOCYSTS BETWEEN SHEEP OOCYTES AND GOAT SPERMATOZOA

In rodents, chimeric blastocysts produced by combining embryonic cells of 2 different species have been used to investigate cell lineage and cell interaction during development. Interspecific chimerism offers new approaches to the study of reproductive incompatibilities between species. The aim of the present study was to produce interspecies embryos between sheep oocytes and goat spermatozoa through in vitro fertilization. Sheep ovaries were collected from a nearby abattoir and transported to the laboratory in 0.9% normal sterile saline containing antibiotics (50 μg mL–1 of gentamicin sulfate) at 30 to 35°C. Oocytes were aspirated by the puncturing method in a medium consisting of TCM-199 and 3 mg mL–1 of BSA. Only A and B grade COC with 3 or more layers of cumulus cells with homogeneous ooplasm were taken for maturation. The oocytes were washed 4 to 5 times in maturation medium containing TCM-199 (HEPES modified), 10 μg mL–1 of LH, 5 μg mL–1 of FSH, 1 μg mL–1 of estradiol-17β, 50 μg mL–1 of sodium pyruvate, 5.5 mg mL–1 of glucose, 3.5 μg mL–1 of L-glutamine, 50 μg mL–1 of gentamicin, 3 mg mL–1 of BSA, and 10% EGS (heat-inactivated goat serum). The COC (15 to 20 oocytes) were placed in 100-μL droplets of maturation medium, covered with paraffin oil in a 35-mm Petri dish, and incubated in a CO2 incubator (5% CO2 in air) with maximum humidity at 38.5°C for 24 h. Fresh semen was collected from a proven buck. The semen was washed at 300g 2 times in sperm-TALP (Parrish et al. 1986) medium to remove the seminal plasma and incubated with fert-TALP medium containing sperm-TALP supplemented with 50 μg mL–1 of heparin and 3 mg mL–1 of BSA for 1.5 h for capacitation. The matured sheep oocytes with expanded cumulus cells were coincubated with capacitated buck spermatozoa at a concentration of 2 × 106 sperm mL–1 for 10 h in 5% CO2 in air with maximum humidity at 38.5°C. The presumptive zygotes were then cultured in embryo development medium containing TCM-199 (HEPES modified), 0.03 mg mL–1 of sodium pyruvate, 0.1 mg mL–1 of L-glutamine, 0.05 mg mL–1 of gentamicin, 10 μL mL–1 of essential amino acids, 5 μL mL–1 of nonessential amino acids, 10 mg mL–1 of BSA (fraction V), 10% fetal calf serum, and 50 mm cysteamine along with sheep oviductal cells for further development. The cleavage was recorded at 36 to 48 h postinsemination, and morula- and blastocyst-stage embryos were obtained on Day 5 and Day 7, respectively. The cleavage percentage was found to be 58.6%. Among the cleaved embryos, 43% reached the morula stage, and among morula, 31% reached the blastocyst stage. We concluded that interspecies embryos between sheep and goat can be produced successfully in vitro up to the blastocyst stage. Table 1. In vitro production of different stages of interspecies (sheep × goat) embryos

Continuous renal replacement therapy in critically ill patients with renal failure

Continuous arterio-venous and veno-venous haemodiafiltration (CAVHD, CVVHD), combine convection and diffusing solute clearance. We performed CVVHD on critically ill patients with renal failure, of whom 15 were on inotropic support and 10 on ventilators. Satisfactory diafiltration could be performed in all the patients with adequate solute and fluid removal. The main complication was clotting of the filter. The procedure was simple, safe and could be done by staff with no special training in dialysis technology.

Binding studies of four free base porphyrins and six iron (+3) porphyrins with human serum albumin

The binding stoichiometry and binding equilibria of human serum albumin with water-soluble four free base porphyrins and six chloroiron (+3) porphyrins have been determined in 0.1M phosphate buffer, pH 7.2, by fluorescence quenching and filtration methods. The binding stoichiometry is observed to be 1:1, porphyrin to protein. The dissociation constants, Kd, between the porphyrins and the protein are found to be 1-4 microM. A binding mechanism between the protein and the porphyrins has been presented.

Binding studies of three water-soluble polycationic porphyrins with human serum albumin

The binding stoichiometry and equilibria of three polycationic water-soluble porphyrins with human serum albumin (HSA) have been determined by fluorescence quenching and filtration methods in 0.1M phosphate buffer, pH 7.2 at 25 degrees. For one porphyrin the binding equilibrium was also measured by measuring the lifetime of tryptophan and also by measuring the polarization of bound porphyrin. Energy transfer between the porphyrin and the tryptophan residue of HSA has been studied.

Binding of some meso-tetraphenyl porphyrins with apohemoglobin and methemoglobin

Six tetraphenylporphyrins have been studied for their binding with human apohemoglobin and methemoglobin. Four showed binding with apohemoglobin, in a way hemin binds, to form analogs of recondtituted hemoglobin. Five porphyrins bound with methemoglobin, perhaps, through random ionic interaction.