Vasoactive intestinal peptide gene expression from embryos to aging rats

Neuroendocrinology. 1988 Jan;47(1):27-31. doi: 10.1159/000124886.

Abstract

Vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) gene transcripts were demonstrated by RNA blot hybridization using VIP-specific RNA hybridization probes. High levels of expression were observed as early as in 16-day-old embryos. In aging rats, the VIP-mRNA levels were reduced significantly (in the cerebral cortex) as compared to 21-day-old rats. Our results suggest a role for the VIP gene protein products during embryonal development. During aging processes the decrease in VIP gene transcripts may be a consequence of either a reduction in the transcriptional activity of VIP neurons or death of VIP-producing cells.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Aging / genetics*
  • Aging / metabolism
  • Animals
  • Brain / embryology
  • Brain / metabolism*
  • Embryonic and Fetal Development*
  • Female
  • Gene Expression Regulation*
  • Gestational Age
  • Nucleic Acid Hybridization
  • RNA, Messenger / metabolism
  • Rats
  • Rats, Inbred Strains
  • Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide / genetics*
  • Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide / metabolism

Substances

  • RNA, Messenger
  • Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide