Optimizing the Expression and Solubilization of an E. coli-Produced Leukemia Inhibitory Factor for Anti-LIF Antibody Production and Use Thereof for Contraception in Mice

Leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF) is an essential cytokine for blastocyst implantation. This study evaluated the effect of LIF inhibition on the blockage of embryo implantation. A truncated mouse LIF (tmLIF) was designed and expressed in E. coli . The protein expression was optimized using different culture media and inducers. To block pregnancy, the mice were immunized by the purified protein via maternal injection of the protein or in utero injection of the anti-LIF serum. The expression of implantation-relevant genes was quantified in the uterine tissue. The results showed that the protein was expressed in aggregated form in E. coli . The highest yield of protein was produced in the M9 medium. The insoluble protein was completely dissociated by SDS and 2-ME combination, but not by urea. The maternal immunization reduced the number of offspring, but not significantly. Instead, in utero injection of the anti-LIF serum prevented the blastocyst implantation. Gene expression analyses showed decrease of Jam2 , Msx1 and HB-EGF genes and increase of Muc1 gene as the result of intrauterine administration of the anti-LIF serums. In conclusion, SDS-mediated solubilization of inclusion bodies was compatible with in vivo studies. The intrauterine administration of anti-LIF serum could prevent mouse pregnancy. This indicates that in utero application of LIF antibodies might be used as a contraceptive.