Cytoplasmic and nuclear Survivin expression in healthy gastric mucosae of equids: A comparative study between horses, donkeys, and mules

Background

Information regarding Survivin protein expression in the gastric mucosa of equids is scarce. This protein has been associated with functions related to modulating apoptosis and promoting mitosis in epithelial cells and is considered part of gastric cytoprotection mechanisms in humans and mice, maintaining mucosal integrity and regulating cellular renewal.

Aims/objectives

This study aimed to determine the expression of cytoplasmic and nuclear Survivin in gastric mucosae of equids (horses, donkeys, and mules).

Methods

A total of 30 healthy stomachs, 10 from each species, were evaluated using histology and immunohistochemistry techniques. Survivin protein was detected with antibody EP119 and with the polymer method.

Results

Immunohistochemistry revealed survivin expression in the gastric mucosa of equids. In horses and mules, the survivin index was evident in the cytoplasm of both glandular (59 ± 55; 55 ± 40) and squamous (15 ± 16; 18 ± 19) mucosa, being significantly higher in the glandular mucosa (P = 0.001; P = 0.041), respectively. In contrast, donkeys showed a higher survivin index in the cytoplasm, but no significant difference was observed between the two types of mucosa (P = 0.506).

Conclusion

Survivin expression in the healthy gastric tissue of equids was localized to the lamina propria and the basal layer of the epithelial layer, predominantly within the cytoplasmic compartment of the cells. However, further techniques are needed to study this protein in Equine Gastric Ulcer Syndrome (EGUS) to assess its potential role in cytoprotection and gastro-adaptation in these species.