Production of cloned mammals by somatic cell nuclear transfer is associated with functional and structural abnormalities of placentation and with abnormal fetal development. A proteomic analysis was performed in domestic cats (Felis catus) to compare cloned term placentas (CTP) obtained from cesarean section (CS) to control placentas obtained from CS or vaginal delivery. The expression of 20 proteins was altered in CTP (p<0.05) compared to control placentas. The two control groups showed that the method of delivery, vaginal delivery or CS, did not affect protein expression (p>0.05). A total of 13 proteins were up-regulated in CTP, including apoptosis-related cathepsin D (CD), annexin A1 and heat shock protein 27 (HSP 27), and seven proteins were down-regulated in CTP, including prohibitin (PHB). The expression of PHB and CD was confirmed by Western blotting and immunofluorescence staining. The abnormal expression of PHB and CD correlated with the generation of reactive oxygen species, leading to decreased mitochondrial membrane potential and telomeric DNA, which are associated with cellular senescence and apoptosis. In summary, a specific pattern of abnormal protein expression is associated with the impaired development and functions of cloned placentas and hence with decreased fetal viability. Strategies aimed at restoring normal placental protein expression may increase the efficiency of somatic cell nuclear transfer and transgenic cat production and help restore endangered species.

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