Better expression profile of CD8 and CD4 gene in uterus of pregnant ewe in comparison to non-pregnant - a novel report

CD8 and CD4 T cells play a central role in the immune response to viruses and intracellular pathogens as well as functions for the maintenance of both the mother and fetus. The present study was conducted to explore the differential gene expression profile for CD8 and CD4 present in the uterus with reference to the gravid and non-gravid Garole sheep and confirmation through immuno histochemical studies. Better CD8 and CD4 gene expression was observed in the mid uterus of pregnant ewes compared to that of non-pregnant ewes, where CD8 expression was better to that of CD4. Gene expression profiling of CD8 and CD4 are reported here for the first time in sheep. CD8 and CD4 expression may be regarded as the useful factor for maintenance of pregnancy. The current observations demonstrate that during pregnancy in ewe the immune system may respond to changes in the maternal environment to maintain the size and function of the CD8 and CD4 T-cell compartment. CD8 and CD4 expression may be employed as marker for pregnancy detection in sheep, which remains always a challenge for sheep breeders.