Effects of Azgp1 -/- on mammary gland, adipose tissue and liver gene expression and milk lipid composition in lactating mice.

The expression of Azgp1 gene, an adipokine involved in the mobilization of body reserves, was observed in mammary gland of ruminants. Its regulation by different dietary conditions suggests a potential role in the mechanisms controlling the composition of milk fat. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of Azgp1 during lactation. Azgp1−/− mice were compared to wild-type to determine its effects on milk fatty acid composition and offspring growth. To determine its effects on mammary gland, adipose tissue and liver gene expression, gene expression was analyzed using RT-qPCR via TLDA analyses. The body weight of Azgp1−/− mothers was slightly higher after parturition and at 10 days of lactation compared to the wild type. The milk polyunsaturated fatty acid content was increased in Azgp1−/− mice. Among the 40 genes studied, Azgp1−/− modified the expression of 9, 10 and 3 genes in mammary gland, adipose tissue and liver, respectively. These genes, involved in fatty acid synthesis, transport and triglyceride synthesis, were downregulated in Azgp1−/− mice showing a particularity during lactation. Changes in mammary gland gene expression may explain the modifications observed in milk fatty acid composition. This study supports a role of Azgp1 on lipid metabolism, in particular in mammary gland, during lactation function.