The localization and expression of gonadotropin inhibitory hormone in the hypothalamus of turkey hens during the prepubertal, pubertal and postpubertal phases

Domest Anim Endocrinol. 2021 Jan:74:106486. doi: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2020.106486. Epub 2020 Apr 21.

Abstract

Gonadotropin inhibitory hormone (GnIH), initially discovered in birds as a hypothalamic neuropeptide, inhibits the synthesis and release of gonadotropins by affecting GnRH neurons and gonadotropes. Therefore, it may be a key neuropeptide in reproduction in birds. The aim of the present study was to investigate the prepubertal, pubertal, and postpubertal localization of GnIH and changes in hypothalamic GnIH expression in British United Turkey hens. In prepubertal, pubertal, and postpubertal periods, the brains of turkey hens (n = 15) were removed after fixation. Sections (30 μm) were prepared from the entire hypothalamus and stained immunohistochemically against GnIH antibody. Gonadotropin inhibitory hormone-immunoreactive neurons were observed in the paraventricular nucleus. These neurons were significantly more abundant in the prepubertal turkeys than pubertal and postpubertal turkeys (P < 0.05). The results suggested that GnIH neurons have an important role in regulating the pubertal events in British United Turkey hens.

Keywords: Gonadotropin inhibitory hormone; Hypothalamus; Puberty; Turkey.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Female
  • Hypothalamic Hormones / genetics
  • Hypothalamic Hormones / metabolism*
  • Hypothalamus / metabolism*
  • Neurons / classification
  • Neurons / physiology
  • Sexual Maturation / physiology*
  • Turkeys / physiology*

Substances

  • Hypothalamic Hormones