IGF-1 promotes trophectoderm cell proliferation of porcine embryos by activating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway

• DOI: 10.1186/s12964-025-02191-2
• Publication Date: 2025-04-20T19:03:01Z
• Authors: Min Ju Kim; Hyo-Gu Kang; Se-Been Jeon; Ji Hyeon Yun; Eun Young Choi; Pil-Soo Jeong; Bong-Seok Song; Sun-Uk Kim; Seong-Keun Cho; Bo-Woong Sim
• Keywords: Inner cell mass

Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) influences various aspects of embryogenesis, including embryonic development. This study investigated the effects IGF-1 on early development in pig embryos, focusing its interaction with Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, a key regulator cell adhesion and proliferation. Porcine embryos were used for experiments chemical treatments to blastocyst underlying mechanism. Apoptosis, immunochemistry, gene expression, protein quantification performed, statistical significance assessed. treatment during stages significantly enhanced developmental parameters, particular formation rates. Interestingly, increased trophectoderm (TE) The TE is an essential component blastocyst, maintaining structure. Successful was dependent proper function TE. upregulated expression functional proteins related differentiation tight junctions. Notably, these more pronounced when performed last 3 days (days 3-6) compared first 0-3). In addition, we found that promoted activation increasing β-catenin levels expression. To confirm between pathway development, cultured picropodophyllin, receptor inhibitor. Picropodophyllin suppressed levels, differentiation, junction formation. These successfully rescued by activator ChiR99021. Our findings provide new insights into embryogenesis highlight potential improve reproductive outcomes enhancing quality.