Localization and expression of phospholipase A2 and polyunsaturated fatty acid profile in the testis tissues of Hu sheep

The fatty acid content and the localization and expression of phospholipase A(2) (PLA(2)) in the testis of Hu sheep were investigated. A total of 18 six-month-old Hu sheep were divided into small group (S, with left testis weight < 50 g), medium group (M, with left testis weight among 90-110 g), and large group (L, with left testis weight >160 g), which had six individuals each. The expression of PLA(2) in testicular tissues of different sizes was analyzed by immunohistochemistry, RT-qPCR, and Western blot. The fatty acid profile was detected by gas chromatography. Immunohistochemical labeling determined that PLA(2) protein was expressed in the Leydig and Sertoli cells of testis, and the immunohistochemical average optional density in the S group was significantly greater than the L group (P < 0.05). RT-qPCR and Western blot analysis showed that PLA(2) in the S group was greater than that in the L group (P < 0.05). Docosahexaenoic acid, omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), and total PUFA content in the testis of the L group were significantly less than those of the S and M groups (P < 0.01). This study showed that PLA(2) content in the S group was greater than that in the L group.