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Bovine fetal microchimerism in normal and embryo transfer pregnancies and its implications for biotechnology applications in cattle
Author(s) -
Turin Lauretta,
Invernizzi Pietro,
Woodcock Marion,
Grati Francesca R.,
Riva Federica,
Tribbioli Giulia,
Laible Götz
Publication year - 2007
Publication title -
biotechnology journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.144
H-Index - 84
eISSN - 1860-7314
pISSN - 1860-6768
DOI - 10.1002/biot.200600218
Subject(s) - microchimerism , transplacental , biology , fetus , placenta , andrology , transgene , embryo transfer , embryo , pregnancy , gestation , physiology , immunology , genetics , medicine , gene
Fetal cells and DNA have been detected in the maternal circulation during and after pregnancy in a few mammalian species. The incidence of similar microchimerism in cattle could have repercussion for the application of modern biotechnologies such as the transfer of transgenic embryos. To determine if feto‐maternal leakage can occur in pregnant cows, we have analyzed maternal blood samples for the presence of fetal DNA during gestation and post‐partum periods. Y chromosome‐specific DNA was detected in up to 73% of blood samples from naturally mated heifers carrying conventional bull calves and a transgene‐specific sequence in up to 50% of recipient cows carrying transgenic fetuses. These findings document for the first time that transplacental leakage of fetal DNA into the maternal circulation can occur in cattle despite the epitheliochorial placenta of ruminants, with potential implications for the utilization of recipient cows in the food chain.