Molecular Factors Involved in the Reproductive Morphophysiology of Female Domestic Cat (Felis catus)

Abstract

The domestic cat (Felis catus) is considered an important model for the study of feline reproductive morphophysiology. However, although the morphological changes and clinical signs that occur during the estrous cycle and pregnancy are well known, little is known about the molecular mechanisms involved in the reproductive physiology of this animal species. Thus, this paper reviews the current knowledge about the modulation and expression profile of hormonal, immunological, redox, and growth mediators involved in the uterine, ovarian, and placental morphophysiology of domestic cats.