Seasonal Comparative Analysis of Follicular Interleukin Concentration and Expression of IL1RII, IL4 and IL1RA in Cystic Follicles Versus Normal Preovulatory Follicles in Buffalo

Abstract

Background: Cystic ovarian disease (COD) is a prevalent cause of infertility in buffalo, necessitating a deeper understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms. This study aimed to investigate the expression levels of IL-1RII, IL-1RA and IL-4 cytokines in naturally occurring ovarian follicular cysts obtained from a slaughter house. Methods: The relative gene expression was assessed using real-time PCR (RT-PCR) while concentrations of IL-1andIL-4 were quantified in follicular fluid via ELISA. Result: The results revealed that the IL-4 gene was expressed in both normal and cystic follicles, with slightly higher expression observed in cystic follicles, albeit without statistical significance. Interestingly, higher concentrations of IL-1 and IL-4 were found in normal follicles compared to cystic follicles, regardless of the season, with no significant variations between seasons within the same follicle type. These findings provide valuable insights into the altered cytokine expression and hormonal profiles associated with cystic ovarian disease in buffalo. Further research is warranted to elucidate the precise roles of these cytokines and hormones in the pathophysiology of COD, potentially leading to improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for this infertility disorder in buffalo.