Gene Expression Changes in the Septum: Possible Implications for MicroRNAs in Sculpting the Maternal Brain

摘要: The transition from the non-maternal to maternal state is characterized by a variety of CNS alterations that support care offspring. septum (including lateral and medial portions) brain region previously linked various emotional motivational processes, including care. In this study, we used microarrays (PLIER algorithm) examine gene expression changes in postpartum mice employed set enrichment analysis (GSEA) identify possible regulators altered expression. Genes interest identified as differentially regulated with microarray were validated quantitative real-time PCR. We found fatty acid binding protein 7 (Fabp7) galanin (Gal) downregulated, whereas insulin-like growth factor 3 (Igfbp3) was upregulated compared virgin females. These genes be other regions during lactation. also novel not behavior, but could play role glutamate-ammonia ligase (Glul) somatostatin receptor 1 (Sstr1) (both postpartum). implicated metabolism, cell differentiation, or proliferation exhibited Unexpectedly, revealed high number microRNAs, transcription factors, conserved sites (177 corrected P-value <0.05) significantly genes, while none downregulated genes. MicroRNAs have been placenta mammary gland development, first indication they may key sculpting brain. Together, study provides new insights into (along mechanisms for their regulation) are involved septum-mediated adaptations period.