Effects of inhibiting connexin43 on expression of fibroblast growth factor in prolactinomas in rats

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of connexin43(Cx43) on basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) expression by inhibiting Cx43 expression in prolactinomas in rats.

Methods: An experimental rat model of prolactinoma induced by estradiol (E2) treatment was used. Gap junction inhibitor was applied in through the arachnoid space by injection of carbenoxolone (CBX). Cx43 and bFGF expression was examined by both western blotting, respectively.

Results: Pituitaries treated with E2 were hypertrophic, but this was reduced by CBX treatment. Estradiol induced Cx43 and bFGF expression, which decreased following CBX treatment.

Conclusions: Altered Cx43 expression modulates bFGF expression, which correlates with prolactinoma development.

Keywords:

• Prolactinoma
• Gap junction inhibitor
• Connexin43
• Fibroblast growth factor