Molecular characterization of OAS1 as a biomarker molecule for early pregnancy diagnosis in Bubalus bubalis

Abstract

OAS1 (2′-5′-oligoadenylate synthetase) is a type I interferon molecule which is responsible for antiviral activity and known for its action in innate immunity. It was also reported to be stimulated by the release of interferon tau (IFN-t) in the serum of pregnant animals during conceptus implantation. OAS1 is studied in most of the ruminants except for buffalo (<em>Bubalus bubalis</em>), which is well known for high milk production. Therefore, in the present study OAS1 mRNA was isolated from pregnant buffalo (<em>B. bubalis</em>) at 18-21 day of pregnancy. The ORF region of OAS1 was amplified and sequenced for characterization of this protein. <em>In silico</em> analysis of protein was done in order to find the suitability of protein as a candidate molecule for early pregnancy diagnostic kits. The functional characterization identifies various motifs present in the protein which are responsible for its interaction with other proteins. Physiochemical properties predict the protein nature during <em>in vitro </em>conditions. Further, immunogenic studies revealed OAS1 is highly antigenic nature and its suitability for use <em>in vivo</em> conditions. In conclusion, OAS1 protein expression in buffalo is a good indicator of conceptus implantation and has suitable properties for being used in early and precise pregnancy diagnostic kits.