DefinePK

Abstract

Irisin is a recently reported adipo-myokine. It is synthesized after the proteolytic cleavage of its precursor, fibronectin type III domain-containing protein 5 (FNDC5) prior to its release into the circulation. Currently, it is unknown whether irisin/FNDC5 exists in the tissues of camel species. Our findings demonstrated for the first time the existence of mRNA transcripts for FNDC5 gene in the dromedary camel smooth muscles, as determined by RT-PCR analysis and showed predominant localization of irisin/FNDC5 protein in the visceral and vascular smooth muscle cells of dromedary camels, as assessed by immunohistochemical analysis. The present study suggests that irisin/FNDC5 possibly has physiological role(s) in the contractility and motility of the camel intestinal smooth muscle cells as well as it might be implicated in the maintenance and control of blood pressure in camels. These important factors could contribute to the distinct biological characteristics of dromedary camels for adaptation to harsh environmental conditions.