Expressions of ISG15 , MX1 , and MX2 in Circulating Blood Cells Can Be a Good Biomarker for Early Pregnancy in Black Bengal Goats

This study investigated the potential of ISG15 , MX1 , and MX2 gene expression as early pregnancy biomarkers in Black Bengal goats. Blood samples were collected from does ( n = 9) on Days 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, and 45 after natural mating for gene expression analysis. Samples were also obtained from non‐inseminated, post‐partum anestrous does ( n = 9) as controls. The expression levels of ISG15 , MX1 , and MX2 genes were quantified using qPCR, while plasma progesterone concentrations were measured using the enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Data were analyzed using one‐way ANOVA and Duncan's multiple range test. Relative gene expression values were calculated using the 2 −ΔΔCt analysis. The results showed that mRNA expressions of ISG15 and MX2 were increased significantly in pregnant does compared with non‐inseminated controls by Day 20 post‐insemination. The MX1 gene expression was significantly higher on Day 15 post‐mating compared with controls. Pregnancy status was confirmed by serum progesterone concentrations and ultrasonography. These findings suggest that the expression profiles of ISG15 , MX1 , and MX2 genes hold potential as biomarkers for the early detection of pregnancy in Black Bengal goats. The MX1 expression may serve as an earlier marker for pregnancy diagnosis in Black Bengal goats compared with ISG15 and MX2 .