Changes in serum vitellogenin levels and immunohistochemical localization of vitellogenin in hepatic cells during ovarian development in the Japanese eel
Fisheries
Science, 67(5): 880-887
Abstract:
The
present study was designed to quantify changes in serum vitellogenin (VTG)
levels and to localize VTG in hepatic cells immunohistochemically during
artificial maturation of the Japanese eel Anguilla japonica. Hormone
treatment resulted in a gradual rise in serum VTG levels, in which the
highest values were attained at the migratory nucleus stage. Hepatocytes
responded to hormone treatment by increased immunoreactivity; both staining
area and intensity were enhanced with ongoing gonadal development. Moreover,
cytoplasmic vacuoles increased in number during artificial maturation,
occupying large areas inside hepatocytes. The unusual appearance of
hepatocytes may reflect the effect of artificial maturation.
(Division of Marine Biosciences, Graduate School of Fisheries Sciences, Hokkaido University, Hakodate, Hokkaido 041-8611, Japan, Tel: 81-298-50-2757. Fax: 81-298-50-2233. Email: okumura.hiromi@nasda.go.jp)