Expression and localization of the omega-3 fatty acid receptor GPR120 in human term placenta

Placenta. 2014 Jul;35(7):523-5. doi: 10.1016/j.placenta.2014.04.017. Epub 2014 May 9.

Abstract

Fatty acids can function as signaling molecules, acting through receptors in the cytosol or on the cell surface. G-Protein Receptor (GPR)120 is a membrane-bound receptor mediating anti-inflammatory and insulin-sensitizing effects of the omega-3 fatty acid docohexaenoic acid (DHA). GPR120 dysfunction is associated with obesity in humans. Cellular localization of GPR120 and the influence of maternal obesity on GPR120 protein expression in the placenta are unknown. Herein we demonstrate that GPR120 is predominantly expressed in the microvillous membrane (MVM) of human placenta and that the expression level of this receptor in MVM is not altered by maternal body mass index (BMI).

Keywords: BMI; DHA receptor; FFAR4; O3FAR1; Pregnancy.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Body Mass Index
  • Case-Control Studies
  • Fatty Acids, Omega-3 / metabolism*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Male
  • Microvilli / metabolism
  • Obesity / complications
  • Obesity / metabolism
  • Overweight / complications
  • Overweight / metabolism
  • Placenta / metabolism*
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications / metabolism
  • Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled / metabolism*

Substances

  • FFAR4 protein, human
  • Fatty Acids, Omega-3
  • Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled