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Evidence for placental transfer of maternal corticosterone in a viviparous lizard
journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-17, 07:17 authored by Itonaga, K, Erik WapstraErik Wapstra, Susan JonesSusan JonesIn mammals, there is experimental evidence that circulating maternal cortisol is transferred to the embryos across the placenta during gestation. Direct effects of this maternal cortisol may allow embryos to display phenotypic plasticity to cope with postnatal environments (i.e., pre-programming). The potential for maternal hormone induced-adaptation may be of considerable evolutionary significance in viviparous animals. However, to date, there is no such direct evidence that circulating maternal corticosterone passes through the placenta and into the embryos of viviparous reptiles. In this study, we assessed the transfer of (3)H-corticosterone injected into females of the lizard Pseudemoia entrecasteauxii into maternal blood, maternal liver, the embryo, the yolk and the amniotic fluid during mid-to-late gestation. We provide direct evidence that circulating maternal corticosterone passes through the placenta into the embryos in this species. Transfer of maternal corticosterone into the embryos significantly decreased at the end of embryonic development. We discuss these results in terms of the relationships between the degree of corticosterone transfer and embryonic stage. These results demonstrate the potential for direct effects of maternal corticosterone, including endocrine pre-programming, upon the developing embryos in viviparous lizards.
History
Publication title
Comparative Biochemistry and Physiology. Part A: Molecular & Integrative PhysiologyVolume
160Pagination
184-189ISSN
1095-6433Department/School
School of Natural SciencesPublisher
Elsevier Science IncPlace of publication
360 Park Ave South, New York, USA, Ny, 10010-1710Rights statement
The definitive version is available at http://www.sciencedirect.comRepository Status
- Restricted