Role of Oxidative Stress in the Pancreas of Pups Exposed to 2-Aminoanthracene In Utero

The goal of this experiment is to understand the role oxidative stress plays in the pancreas of pups exposed 2-aminoanthracene (2AA) in utero. Environmental exposure to 2AA may increase the risk of developing diseases, such as diabetes. Oxidative stress has been linked with beta-cell dysfunction of the pancreas. Oxidative stress refers to the imbalance between production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant defenses. To examine oxidative stress response in pups exposed to 2AA in utero, specific gene expression of Duox1, Gpx1, Ncf2, Prdx1, Prkcg, Ptgs2 and Sod1 in the pancreas were quantified by qRT-PCR. Duox1, Gpx1, Ncf2, Pdx1, Prkcg and Ptgs2 were not expressed in the pancreas of pups. No significant expression differences in these genes were noted. PRDX6 was dose-dependently up-regulated in the pancreas of pups from dams that ingested 2AA during gestation. Sod1 was significantly up-regulated in pups exposed to 2AA in utero. Additional feeding study involving moderately high fat is being implemented after three months post-wean. Oxidative stress immunohistochemistry staining will also be performed. Results will demonstrate the role of oxidative stress in understanding vulnerability to diabetes in pups exposed to arylamine in utero.