Sequence analysis of feline oviductin and its expression during the estrous cycle in the domestic cat (Felis catus)

Oviductins belong to a family of oviduct-specific glycoproteins believed to play an important role in fertilization and/or early embryonic development. Oviductin cDNA between species is highly conserved and shares 58% to 98% similarity in the deduced amino acid sequences. Our objective in this study was to sequence the full open reading frame of the feline oviductin and to examine its expression during the estrous cycle on both mRNA and protein level. The obtained cDNA containing the full open reading frame was determined to be 1677 nucleotides coding for a deduced protein of 558 amino acids. Identities between species range from 74% (mouse) to 80% (human, baboon, and rhesus) within the N-terminal protein region. Major differences were localized in the carboxy terminal region, which corresponds to exon 11 of the gene. Feline oviductin contained one putative N-linked glycosylation site, six O-linked glycosylation sites, a potential heparin binding site, and two cholesterol recognition and/or interaction amino acid consensus (CRAC) domains. Oviductin expression was analyzed by real time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) and immunohistochemistry. Both approaches revealed an estrous cycle-dependent expression in the ampulla and isthmus. Quantitative PCR showed highest oviductin mRNA copy numbers in the early and late follicular stage and reduced mRNA expression during all other stages. With the exception of the early follicular stage, feline oviductin mRNA abundance was not significantly different in the oviductal segments ampulla and isthmus. A prominent immunolabeling was seen in the early and late follicular stage which disappeared after ovulation, indicating a function of the protein during sperm storage and fertilization.