The effects of Pmch expression silencing by siRNA in rats during the lactation period

摘要: The melanin-concentrating hormone (MCH) has its synthesis increased during lactation. Its role throughout this period has not been fully elucidated. We aim to investigate the effects of Pmch mRNA inactivation through RNA interference. Cell culture: Pmch silencing validation, viral particles production, Pmch expression analysis; Female rats: shRNA intracerebral injection (Pmch/scramble) in hypothalamic sites. PC-12 cells showed a significant increase in Pmch (p< 0.0001) after LiCl induction. Significant decreases in Pmch expression (p= 0.0393) in PC-12 and in female rats (p= 0.0126) were detected after transfection. We suggest that Pmch expression may have an impact on the lactation and maternal controls in rats.