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Moradi A, Ghasemian F, Mashayekhi F. The reaggregation of normal granulosa-cumulus cells and mouse oocytes with polycystic ovarian syndrome in vitro: An experimental study. Int J Reprod Biomed 2022; 19:987-996. [PMID: 34977456 PMCID: PMC8717076 DOI: 10.18502/ijrm.v19i11.9914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2020] [Revised: 12/12/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The dialogue between oocytes and their surrounding cells plays a major role in the progress of oocyte meiosis and their developmental potential. Objective This study aimed to evaluate the effect of co-culture of normal granulosa-cumulus cells (GCCs) with oocytes from polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) mice. Materials and Methods Normal GCCs were collected from 10 virgin adult Naval Medical Research Institute female mice (30-35 gr, 7-8 wk old), and were cultured in an alpha-minimum essential medium supplemented with 5% fetal calf serum for 24-48 hr (1×106 cells/well). Then, germinal-vesicle oocytes from PCOS mice were cultured in the presence of cultured normal GCCs (experimental group) and without GCCs (control group). The maturation rate and quality of the PCOS oocytes were examined by evaluating TFAM and Cx43 gene expression (real-time PCR) and the connection among PCOS oocytes and normal GCCs after 24 hr of culture. Results The co-culture of normal GCCs and PCOS oocytes in the experimental group led to the formation of a complex called a PCOS oocyte-normal GCCs complex. The maturation rate of these complexes was significantly increased compared to that of the control group (p ≤ 0.001). A significant difference was also found in the expression of Cx43 (p ≤ 0.001) and TFAM (p < 0.05) genes in the experimental group compared with the control group. The connection between PCOS oocytes and normal GCCs was observed in the scanning electron microscope images. Conclusion Co-culture with normal GCCs improves the capacity of PCOS oocytes to enter meiosis, which may result in the promotion of assisted reproduction techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amaneh Moradi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Ghasemian
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran
| | - Farhad Mashayekhi
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Guilan, Rasht, Iran
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2
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Shen M, Li T, Chen F, Wu P, Wang Y, Chen L, Xie K, Wang J, Zhang G. Transcriptomic Analysis of circRNAs and mRNAs Reveals a Complex Regulatory Network That Participate in Follicular Development in Chickens. Front Genet 2020; 11:503. [PMID: 32499821 PMCID: PMC7243251 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.00503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Follicular development plays a key role in poultry reproduction, affecting clutch traits and thus egg production. Follicular growth is determined by granulosa cells (GCs), theca cells (TCs), and oocyte at the transcription, translation, and secretion levels. With the development of bioinformatic and experimental techniques, non-coding RNAs have been shown to participate in many life events. In this study, we investigated the transcriptomes of GCs and TCs in three different physiological stages: small yellow follicle (SYF), smallest hierarchical follicle (F6), and largest hierarchical follicle (F1) stages. A differential expression (DE) analysis, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), and bioinformatic analyses were performed. A total of 18,016 novel circular RNAs (circRNAs) were detected in GCs and TCs, 8127 of which were abundantly expressed in both cell types. and more circRNAs were differentially expressed between GCs and TCs than mRNAs. Enrichment analysis showed that the DE transcripts were mainly involved in cell growth, proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis. In the WGCNA analysis, we identified six specific modules that were related to the different cell types in different stages of development. A series of central hub genes, including MAPK1, CITED4, SOD2, STC1, MOS, GDF9, MDH1, CAPN2, and novel_circ0004730, were incorporated into a Cytoscape network. Notably, using both DE analysis and WGCNA, ESR1 was identified as a key gene during follicular development. Our results provide valuable information on the circRNAs involved in follicle development and identify potential genes for further research to determine their roles in the regulation of different biological processes during follicle growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manman Shen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China.,Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Sericultural Biology and Biotechnology, College of Biotechnology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, China.,Jiangsu Institute of Poultry Science, Yangzhou, China
| | - Tingting Li
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Fuxiang Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Pengfeng Wu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Ying Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Lan Chen
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Kaizhou Xie
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Jinyu Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
| | - Genxi Zhang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, China
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3
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Chu YL, Xu YR, Yang WX, Sun Y. The role of FSH and TGF-β superfamily in follicle atresia. Aging (Albany NY) 2019; 10:305-321. [PMID: 29500332 PMCID: PMC5892684 DOI: 10.18632/aging.101391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2017] [Accepted: 02/23/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Most of the mammalian follicles undergo a degenerative process called “follicle atresia”. Apoptosis of granulosa cells is the main characteristic of follicle atresia. Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and the transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) superfamily have important regulatory functions in this process. FSH activates protein kinase A and cooperating with insulin receptor substrates, it promotes the PI3K/Akt pathway which weakens apoptosis. Both Smad or non-Smad signaling of the transforming growth factor β superfamily seem to be related to follicle atresia, and the effect of several important family members on follicle atresia is concluded in this article. FSH and TGF-β are likely to mutually influence each other and what we have already known about the possible underlying molecular mechanism is also discussed below.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Lan Chu
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Ya-Ru Xu
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Wan-Xi Yang
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Yi Sun
- College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
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4
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El Fiky ZA, Hassan GM, Nassar MI. Genetic polymorphism of growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) gene related to fecundity in two Egyptian sheep breeds. J Assist Reprod Genet 2017; 34:1683-1690. [PMID: 28762037 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-017-1007-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2017] [Accepted: 07/21/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study explores polymorphisms in the growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) gene (exon 1) with respect to fertility in Egyptian sheep. METHODS Blood samples were collected, and genomic DNA was extracted from 24 Saidi and 13 Ossimi ewes. A 710 bp portion of the GDF9 gene, was amplified using specific primers, and the sequence was analyzed to clarify the phylogenetic relationship of Egyptian breed sheep. In addition, the PCR-RFLP method using Pst1 or Msp1 restriction enzymes was used to mask polymorphisms of partial exon 1 of GDF9 gene to establish molecular markers for twinning. RESULTS The lambing rate percentage and litter size showed significant difference between ewes, which produce single and twin lamb for each breed individually, whereas the coefficient of variation of the Saidi breed is greater than that of the Ossimi breed. The results suggested that the GDF9 gene shared a similarity in sequence compared to six accession numbers of Ovis aries found in GenBank. Molecular phylogenetic analyses were performed based on nucleotide sequences in order to examine the position of the Egyptian breeds among many other sheep breeds. The results indicate that accession number AF078545 of O. aries is closely related with Saidi and Ossimi ewes that produce single or twin lamb using the unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA) analysis. Results showed that Msp1 enzyme digestion revealed polymorphic restriction pattern consisting of one band with 710 bp for ewes producing single lamb and two bands with 710 and 600 bp for ewes producing twin lamb in Saidi sheep breed. CONCLUSION Sequence analysis and diversity of polymorphisms in the GDF9 gene (exon 1) have a novel base substitution (A-T) for detection of FecG mutations that serve as a molecular marker for twinning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaki A El Fiky
- Genetics Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Fayoum University, Fayoum, 63514, Egypt
| | - Gamal M Hassan
- Genetics Department, Faculty of Agriculture, Fayoum University, Fayoum, 63514, Egypt.
| | - Mohamed I Nassar
- Agricultural Research Center, Animal Production Research Institute, Giza, 12618, Egypt
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Chang HM, Qiao J, Leung PCK. Oocyte-somatic cell interactions in the human ovary-novel role of bone morphogenetic proteins and growth differentiation factors. Hum Reprod Update 2016; 23:1-18. [PMID: 27797914 PMCID: PMC5155571 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmw039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 172] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2016] [Revised: 09/29/2016] [Accepted: 10/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Initially identified for their capability to induce heterotopic bone formation,
bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) are multifunctional growth factors that belong
to the transforming growth factor β superfamily. Using cellular and
molecular genetic approaches, recent studies have implicated intra-ovarian BMPs as
potent regulators of ovarian follicular function. The bi-directional communication
of oocytes and the surrounding somatic cells is mandatory for normal follicle
development and oocyte maturation. This review summarizes the current knowledge on
the physiological role and molecular determinants of these ovarian regulatory
factors within the human germline-somatic regulatory loop. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The regulation of ovarian function remains poorly characterized in humans because,
while the fundamental process of follicular development and oocyte maturation is
highly similar across species, most information on the regulation of ovarian
function is obtained from studies using rodent models. Thus, this review focuses
on the studies that used human biological materials to gain knowledge about human
ovarian biology and disorders and to develop strategies for preventing, diagnosing
and treating these abnormalities. SEARCH METHODS Relevant English-language publications describing the roles of BMPs or growth
differentiation factors (GDFs) in human ovarian biology and phenotypes were
comprehensively searched using PubMed and the Google Scholar database. The
publications included those published since the initial identification of BMPs in
the mammalian ovary in 1999 through July 2016. OUTCOMES Studies using human biological materials have revealed the expression of BMPs,
GDFs and their putative receptors as well as their molecular signaling in the
fundamental cells (oocyte, cumulus/granulosa cells (GCs) and theca/stroma cells)
of the ovarian follicles throughout follicle development. With the availability of
recombinant human BMPs/GDFs and the development of immortalized human cell lines,
functional studies have demonstrated the physiological role of intra-ovarian
BMPs/GDFs in all aspects of ovarian functions, from follicle development to
steroidogenesis, cell–cell communication, oocyte maturation, ovulation and
luteal function. Furthermore, there is crosstalk between these potent ovarian
regulators and the endocrine signaling system. Dysregulation or naturally
occurring mutations within the BMP system may lead to several female reproductive
diseases. The latest development of recombinant BMPs, synthetic BMP inhibitors,
gene therapy and tools for BMP-ligand sequestration has made the BMP pathway a
potential therapeutic target in certain human fertility disorders; however,
further clinical trials are needed. Recent studies have indicated that GDF8 is an
intra-ovarian factor that may play a novel role in regulating ovarian functions in
the human ovary. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Intra-ovarian BMPs/GDFs are critical regulators of folliculogenesis and human
ovarian functions. Any dysregulation or variations in these ligands or their
receptors may affect the related intracellular signaling and influence ovarian
functions, which accounts for several reproductive pathologies and infertility.
Understanding the normal and pathological roles of intra-ovarian BMPs/GDFs,
especially as related to GC functions and follicular fluid levels, will inform
innovative approaches to fertility regulation and improve the diagnosis and
treatment of ovarian disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsun-Ming Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, 49 North Garden Rd., Haidian District, Beijing 100191, P.R. China.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Child and Family Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Room 317, 950 West 28 Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V5Z 4H4
| | - Jie Qiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, 49 North Garden Rd., Haidian District, Beijing 100191, P.R. China
| | - Peter C K Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Child and Family Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Room 317, 950 West 28 Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V5Z 4H4
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Kawabe S, Yamashita Y, Saito N, Kokunai K, Hayashi A, Hayashi M, Terai Y, Miyazaki K, Ohmichi M. The effect of moderate to severe endometriosis on expression of growth differentiation factor-9 mRNA in human granulosa cells under controlled ovarian hyperstimulation. Reprod Med Biol 2015; 14:179-184. [PMID: 29259415 PMCID: PMC5715831 DOI: 10.1007/s12522-015-0208-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2014] [Accepted: 04/23/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To investigate the effect of moderate to severe endometriosis on mRNA expression of growth differentiation factor-9 (GDF-9) in the granulosa cells of mature follicles. Methods Follicular fluid (FF) was obtained from 13 patients with moderate to severe endometriosis and 11 without endometriosis, as a control group, and GDF-9 protein levels in both were assayed by western blotting. mRNA expression by GDF-9 and LH receptor (LHR) in granulosa cells obtained from all patients in the study were investigated by StepOne Real-Time PCR. Results Although GDF-9 in FF from patients with endometriosis was no different from that of controls, GDF-9 mRNA expression in granulosa cells of patients with endometriosis was statistically significantly lower than for the control group. The number of oocytes and high-quality embryos was positively correlated with GDF-9 mRNA expression in controls but not in patients with endometriosis Moreover, a negative correlation was identified between GDF-9 mRNA expression and serum estrogen and progesterone levels in the control group, whereas no correlation was observed for the endometriosis group. Conclusions Moderate to severe endometriosis can significantly reduce GDF-9 mRNA expression in the granulosa cells of patients with the disease compared with those without, thus causing poor oocyte maturation and lower embryo quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sachiko Kawabe
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyOsaka Medical CollegeTakatsukiOsakaJapan
| | - Yoshiki Yamashita
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyOsaka Medical CollegeTakatsukiOsakaJapan
- Miyazaki Ladies Clinic3‐17‐6 Toyosaki, Kitaku531‐0071Osaka CityJapan
| | - Natsuho Saito
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyOsaka Medical CollegeTakatsukiOsakaJapan
| | - Kana Kokunai
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyOsaka Medical CollegeTakatsukiOsakaJapan
| | - Atsushi Hayashi
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyOsaka Medical CollegeTakatsukiOsakaJapan
| | - Masami Hayashi
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyOsaka Medical CollegeTakatsukiOsakaJapan
| | - Yoshito Terai
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyOsaka Medical CollegeTakatsukiOsakaJapan
| | - Kazunori Miyazaki
- Miyazaki Ladies Clinic3‐17‐6 Toyosaki, Kitaku531‐0071Osaka CityJapan
| | - Masahide Ohmichi
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyOsaka Medical CollegeTakatsukiOsakaJapan
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7
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Berberoglu Z, Aktas A, Fidan Y, Yazici AC, Aral Y. Association of plasma GDF-9 or GDF-15 levels with bone parameters in polycystic ovary syndrome. J Bone Miner Metab 2015; 33:101-8. [PMID: 24430093 DOI: 10.1007/s00774-013-0560-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2013] [Accepted: 12/08/2013] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
We aimed to determine plasma levels of growth and differentiation factor (GDF)-9 and GDF-15, and their possible association with bone turnover parameters and bone mineral density (BMD), in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Forty-two obese PCOS women aged 25-35 years, 23 women with idiopathic hirsutism (IH) and 20 healthy controls matched for age and body mass index were enrolled. Anthropometric, metabolic and hormonal patterns, plasma GDF-9 and GDF-15 concentrations, bone turnover markers and BMD were measured. No significant differences were observed in bone turnover markers, BMD measurements, plasma GDF-9 and GDF-15 levels in subjects with PCOS compared with the other two groups. In the combined population of all three groups, GDF-15 concentrations were negatively correlated with osteocalcin (r = -0.317, p < 0.01). Analysis of PCOS patients showed a significant correlation of GDF-15 concentrations with age and homeostasis model assessment index (r = 0.319, p < 0.05, and r = 0.312, p < 0.05, respectively). In addition, GDF-15 concentrations were negatively correlated with osteocalcin (r = -0.395, p < 0.01) and positively correlated with urine deoxypyridinoline (r = 0.353, p < 0.05). GDF-9 did not correlate with bone markers and BMD measurements. In conclusion, plasma GDF-9 and GDF-15 levels as well as bone turnover markers and BMD measurements in subjects with PCOS (25-35 years of age) were comparable with those either in subjects with IH or in healthy controls with similar anthropometric and metabolic profiles. GDF-15 might be a marker of a crossregulation between bone and energy metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zehra Berberoglu
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Ankara Education and Research Hospital, Şükriye Mh, 06340, Sıhhıye, Ankara, Turkey,
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Abstract
Teleost fishes are the most species-rich clade of vertebrates and feature an overwhelming diversity of sex-determining mechanisms, classically grouped into environmental and genetic systems. Here, we review the recent findings in the field of sex determination in fish. In the past few years, several new master regulators of sex determination and other factors involved in sexual development have been discovered in teleosts. These data point toward a greater genetic plasticity in generating the male and female sex than previously appreciated and implicate novel gene pathways in the initial regulation of the sexual fate. Overall, it seems that sex determination in fish does not resort to a single genetic cascade but is rather regulated along a continuum of environmental and heritable factors.
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Chang HM, Cheng JC, Klausen C, Leung PCK. BMP15 suppresses progesterone production by down-regulating StAR via ALK3 in human granulosa cells. Mol Endocrinol 2013; 27:2093-104. [PMID: 24140593 DOI: 10.1210/me.2013-1233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In addition to somatic cell-derived growth factors, oocyte-derived growth differentiation factor (GDF)9 and bone morphogenetic protein (BMP)15 play essential roles in female fertility. However, few studies have investigated their effects on human ovarian steroidogenesis, and fewer still have examined their differential effects or underlying molecular determinants. In the present study, we used immortalized human granulosa cells (SVOG) and human granulosa cell tumor cells (KGN) to compare the effects of GDF9 and BMP15 on steroidogenic enzyme expression and investigate potential mechanisms of action. In SVOG cells, neither GDF9 nor BMP15 affects the mRNA levels of P450 side-chain cleavage enzyme or 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase. However, treatment with BMP15, but not GDF9, significantly decreases steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) mRNA and protein levels as well as progesterone production. These suppressive effects, along with the induction of Sma and Mad-related protein (SMAD)1/5/8 phosphorylation, are attenuated by cotreatment with 2 different BMP type I receptor inhibitors (dorsomorphin and DMH-1). Furthermore, depletion of activin receptor-like kinase (ALK)3 using small interfering RNA reverses the effects of BMP15 on SMAD1/5/8 phosphorylation and StAR expression. Similarly, knockdown of ALK3 abolishes BMP15-induced SMAD1/5/8 phosphorylation in KGN cells. These results provide evidence that oocyte-derived BMP15 down-regulates StAR expression and decreases progesterone production in human granulosa cells, likely via ALK3-mediated SMAD1/5/8 signaling. Our findings suggest that oocyte may play a critical role in the regulation of progesterone to prevent premature luteinization during the late stage of follicle development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsun-Ming Chang
- PhD, FCAHS, FRSC, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Child & Family Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Room 317, 950 West 28th Avenue, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, V5Z 4H4.
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Cheon YP. Regulation and 3 dimensional culture of tertiary follicle growth. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2012; 39:95-106. [PMID: 23106040 PMCID: PMC3479238 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2012.39.3.95] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2012] [Revised: 09/22/2012] [Accepted: 09/28/2012] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been revealed that multiple cohorts of tertiary follicles develop during some animal estrous cycle and the human menstrual cycle. To reach developmental competence, oocytes need the support of somatic cells. During embryogenesis, the primordial germ cells appear, travel to the gonadal rudiments, and form follicles. The female germ cells develop within the somatic cells of the ovary, granulosa cells, and theca cells. How the oocyte and follicle cells support each other has been seriously studied. The latest technologies in genes and proteins and genetic engineering have allowed us to collect a great deal of information about folliculogenesis. For example, a few web pages (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov; http://mrg.genetics.washington.edu) provide access to databases of genomes, sequences of transcriptomes, and various tools for analyzing and discovering genes important in ovarian development. Formation of the antrum (tertiary follicle) is the final phase of folliculogenesis and the transition from intraovarian to extraovian regulation. This final step coordinates with the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis. On the other hand, currently, follicle physiology is under intense investigation, as little is known about how to overcome women's ovarian problems or how to develop competent oocytes from in vitro follicle culture or transplantation. In this review, some of the known roles of hormones and some of the genes involved in tertiary follicle growth and the general characteristics of tertiary follicles are summarized. In addition, in vitro culture of tertiary follicles is also discussed as a study model and an assisted reproductive technology model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong-Pil Cheon
- Division of Developmental Biology and Physiology, School of Biosciences and Chemistry, Sungshin Women's University, Seoul, Korea
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11
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de Resende LOT, Vireque AA, Santana LF, Moreno DA, de Sá Rosa e Silva ACJ, Ferriani RA, Scrideli CA, Reis RM. Single-cell expression analysis of BMP15 and GDF9 in mature oocytes and BMPR2 in cumulus cells of women with polycystic ovary syndrome undergoing controlled ovarian hyperstimulation. J Assist Reprod Genet 2012; 29:1057-65. [PMID: 22825968 PMCID: PMC3492567 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-012-9825-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2012] [Accepted: 06/26/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To detect expression of bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15) and growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) in oocytes, and their receptor type 2 receptor for BMPs (BMPR2) in cumulus cells in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF), and determine if BMPR2, BMP15, and GDF9 expression correlate with hyperandrogenism in FF of PCOS patients. METHODS Prospective case-control study. Eighteen MII-oocytes and their respective cumulus cells were obtained from 18 patients with PCOS, and 48 MII-oocytes and cumulus cells (CCs) from 35 controls, both subjected to controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH), and follicular fluid (FF) was collected from small (10-14 mm) and large (>18 mm) follicles. RNeasy Micro Kit (Qiagen) was used for RNA extraction and gene expression was quantified in each oocyte individually and in microdissected cumulus cells from cumulus-oocyte complexes retrieved from preovulatory follicles using qRT-PCR. Chemiluminescence and RIA assays were used for hormone assays. RESULTS BMP15 and GDF9 expression per oocyte was higher among women with PCOS than the control group. A positive correlation was found between BMPR2 transcripts and hyperandrogenism in FF of PCOS patients. Progesterone values in FF were lower in the PCOS group. CONCLUSION We inferred that BMP15 and GDF9 transcript levels increase in mature PCOS oocytes after COH, and might inhibit the progesterone secretion by follicular cells in PCOS follicles, preventing premature luteinization in cumulus cells. BMPR2 expression in PCOS cumulus cells might be regulated by androgens.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alessandra Aparecida Vireque
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics - Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Laura Ferreira Santana
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics - Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Daniel Antunes Moreno
- Department of Pediatrics - Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Rui Alberto Ferriani
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics - Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Carlos Alberto Scrideli
- Department of Pediatrics - Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | - Rosana Maria Reis
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics - Faculty of Medicine of Ribeirão Preto, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
- Departamento de Ginecologia e Obstetrícia da Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto/USP, Av. Bandeirantes 3900, Campus Universitário, CEP 14049-900 Ribeirão Preto, SP Brazil
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12
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Pangas SA. Bone morphogenetic protein signaling transcription factor (SMAD) function in granulosa cells. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2012; 356:40-7. [PMID: 21763749 PMCID: PMC3203253 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2011.06.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2011] [Revised: 05/27/2011] [Accepted: 06/21/2011] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
The transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) family of proteins are key regulators of growth and differentiation. Members of this family, including multiple TGFβs, activins, bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs), and growth and differentiation factor 9 (GDF9), are expressed from oocytes or their associated follicular somatic cells (granulosa and thecal cells) with cell-type and stage-dependent specificity. Granulosa cells are the target cells for many of these ligands. Granulosa cell-specific knockout mice for all of the receptor-regulated SMADs, as well as the common regulatory SMAD4, have recently been generated and highlight the importance of this family in most stages of folliculogenesis. These models have also uncovered a novel role for the BMPs in suppression of granulosa cell tumor development and metastasis. This review summarizes the phenotypes of these mouse models and their contribution to our understanding of the complexity of BMP function during follicle development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie A Pangas
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
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Liu Z, Chen A, Yang Z, Wei H, Leng X. Molecular characterization of growth differentiation factor 9 and its spatio-temporal expression pattern in gibel carp (Carassius auratus gibelio). Mol Biol Rep 2011; 39:3863-70. [PMID: 21779806 DOI: 10.1007/s11033-011-1165-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2011] [Accepted: 06/30/2011] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) is a member of the transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) superfamily with a key role in regulating follicle development. In this study, the GDF9 full-length genomic DNA and cDNA were isolated and characterized from the gibel carp ovary using rapid-amplification of cDNA ends (RACE) and LD-PCR. The full-length genomic DNA and cDNA sequences of GDF9 are 3979 and 2044 bp which code 428 amino acid residues with a specific RKKR protease cleavage site of TGF-β superfamily. Sequence analysis showed that gibel carp was similar to zebrafish and other fish species. Spatio-temporal expression analysis using real-time quantitative PCR revealed that GDF9 mRNA was largely expressed in ovary and testis. GDF9 is mainly present at stage I follicles indicating its important role in early follicles development. The same result was obtained in immunohistochemistry localization of GDF9 protein. Within the follicle, the follicle layer cells were barely expressed whereas GDF9 mRNA was mostly expressed in the oocytes. Supplemented with human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in isolated follicles, the expression of GDF9 mRNA was increased firstly and then decreased. The results of this study indicated that GDF9 gene played a role in fish during development of follicles, especially in the early stage follicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiwei Liu
- Key Laboratory of Exploration and Utilization of Aquatic Genetic Resources, College of Fisheries and Life Science, Shanghai Ocean University, Huchenghuan Road 999, Lingang New District, Shanghai, 201306, People's Republic of China
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14
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Chow JDY, Price JT, Bills MM, Simpson ER, Boon WC. A doxycycline-inducible, tissue-specific aromatase-expressing transgenic mouse. Transgenic Res 2011; 21:415-28. [PMID: 21614586 DOI: 10.1007/s11248-011-9525-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2010] [Accepted: 05/13/2011] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Aromatase converts androgens to estrogens and it is expressed in gonads and non-reproductive tissues (e.g. brain and adipose tissues). As circulating levels of estrogens in males are low, we hypothesize that local estrogen production is important for the regulation of physiological functions (e.g. metabolism) and pathological development (e.g. breast and prostate cancers) by acting in a paracrine and/or intracrine manner. We generated a tissue-specific doxycycline-inducible, aromatase transgenic mouse to test this hypothesis. The transgene construct (pTetOAROM) consists of a full-length human aromatase cDNA (hAROM) and a luciferase gene under the control of a bi-directional tetracycline-responsive promoter (pTetO), which is regulated by transactivators (rtTA or tTA) and doxycycline. Our in vitro studies using MBA-MB-231tet cells stably expressing rtTA, showed that doxycycline treatment induced transgene expression of hAROM transcripts by 17-fold (P = 0.01), aromatase activity by 26-fold, (P = 0.0008) and luciferase activity by 9.6-fold (P = 0.0006). Pronuclear microinjection of the transgene generated four pTetOAROM founder mice. A male founder was bred with a female mammary gland-specific rtTA mouse (MMTVrtTA) to produce MMTVrtTA-pTetOAROM double-transgenic mice. Upon doxycycline treatment via drinking water, human aromatase expression was detected by RT-PCR, specifically in mammary glands, salivary glands and seminal vesicles of double-stransgenic mice. Luciferase expression and activity was detected in these tissues by in vivo bioluminescence imaging, in vitro luciferase assay and RT-PCR. In summary, we generated a transgenic mouse model that expresses the human aromatase transgene in a temporal- and spatial-specific manner, which will be a useful model to study the physiological importance of local estrogen production.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Aromatase/genetics
- Aromatase/metabolism
- Cell Line, Tumor
- Cloning, Molecular
- DNA, Complementary/genetics
- DNA, Complementary/metabolism
- Doxycycline/administration & dosage
- Doxycycline/pharmacology
- Enzyme Activation
- Enzyme Assays
- Female
- Gene Expression Regulation, Enzymologic
- Genetic Vectors/genetics
- Genetic Vectors/metabolism
- Humans
- Luciferases, Firefly/genetics
- Luciferases, Firefly/metabolism
- Luminescent Measurements/methods
- Male
- Mammary Glands, Human/cytology
- Mammary Glands, Human/metabolism
- Mice
- Mice, Transgenic
- Microinjections
- Plasmids/genetics
- Plasmids/metabolism
- Promoter Regions, Genetic
- Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction
- Salivary Glands/cytology
- Salivary Glands/metabolism
- Seminal Vesicles/cytology
- Seminal Vesicles/metabolism
- Transgenes
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15
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Butts S, Riethman H, Ratcliffe S, Shaunik A, Coutifaris C, Barnhart K. Correlation of telomere length and telomerase activity with occult ovarian insufficiency. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2009; 94:4835-43. [PMID: 19864453 PMCID: PMC2795650 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2008-2269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Occult ovarian insufficiency is associated with infertility, impaired response to ovarian stimulation, and reduced live birth rates in women treated with assisted reproductive technologies. Although a decline in ovarian follicle number is expected with age, the proximate causes of occult ovarian insufficiency in young women remain poorly understood. Abnormalities in telomere length and telomerase activity in human granulosa cells may serve as molecular markers for this condition. METHODS A cross-sectional study was performed. Subjects (37 yr old or less) undergoing in vitro fertilization were classified as cases of occult ovarian insufficiency or controls with mechanical infertility (male or tubal factor). Granulosa cells were acquired at the time of oocyte retrieval to quantify telomere length and telomerase activity. RESULTS Fifty-four women were enrolled. Human granulosa cell telomerase activity was demonstrated, and lack of granulosa cell telomerase activity was associated with occult ovarian insufficiency (odds ratio, 11.0; 95% confidence interval, 1.3-495.6; P = 0.02). Telomeres were shorter in women with occult ovarian insufficiency than in controls (relative telomere/single copy gene ratio, 1.88 vs. 3.15; P = 0.039). CONCLUSIONS Aberrant telomere homeostasis is associated with occult ovarian insufficiency in young women. This finding is consistent with the presence of telomeric attenuation that has been shown in multiple age-related conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha Butts
- Division of Infertility and Reproductive Endocrinology, University of Pennsylvania Medical School, 3701 Market Street, Suite 800, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA.
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16
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Ota T, Asahina H, Park SH, Huang Q, Minegishi T, Auersperg N, Leung PCK. HOX cofactors expression and regulation in the human ovary. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2008; 6:49. [PMID: 18973687 PMCID: PMC2585084 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-6-49] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2008] [Accepted: 10/30/2008] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND HOX cofactors enhance HOX binding affinities and specificities and increase HOX's unique functional activities. The expression and the regulation of HOX cofactors in human ovaries are unknown. METHODS In this study, the expression of HOX cofactors, PBX1, PBX2, and MEIS1/2, were examined by using RT-PCR, immunofluorescence in cultured immortalized human granulosa (SVOG) cells. The distribution of these HOX cofactors in human ovaries was examined by immunohistochemistry. The effects of growth differentiation factor-9 (GDF-9) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) on PBX2 in SVOG cells were investigated by western blot analysis. Binding activities of HOXA7 and PBX2 to the specific sequences in granulosa cells were determined by electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA). RESULTS AND CONCLUSION In SVOG cells, PBX1, PBX2 and MEIS1/2 were expressed during cell culture. In normal human ovaries, PBX1 and MEIS1/2 were expressed in granulosa cells at essentially all stages of follicular development. These cofactors were expressed in the nuclei of the granulosa cells from the primordial to the secondary follicles, whereas beyond multilayered follicles was observed in the cytoplasm. The co-expression of PBX1 and MEIS1/2 in granulosa cells in normal human ovaries suggested that MEIS1/2 might control PBX1 sublocalization, as seen in other systems. PBX2 was not expressed or weakly expressed in the primordial follicles. From the primary follicles to the preovulatory follicles, PBX2 expression was inconsistent and the expression was found in the granulosa cell nuclei. The PBX2 expression pattern is similar to HOXA7 expression in ovarian follicular development. Furthermore, FSH down-regulated, GDF-9 did not change PBX2 expression, but co-treatment of the granulosa cells with FSH and GDF-9 up-regulated PBX2 expression. These results implicated a role for PBX2 expression in the steroidogenic activities of granulosa cells in humans. Moreover, PBX2 and HOXA7 bound together to the Pbx sequence, but not to the EMX2 promoter sequence, in SVOG cells. Our findings indicate that HOX cofactors expression in normal human ovary is temporally and spatially specific and regulated by FSH and GDF-9 in granulosa cells. HOX proteins may use different HOX cofactors, depending on DNA sequences that are specific to the granulosa cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takayo Ota
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, BC, V6H 3V5, Canada
| | - Haruka Asahina
- Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma, 371-8511, Japan
| | - Se-Hyung Park
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, BC, V6H 3V5, Canada
| | - Qing Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, BC, V6H 3V5, Canada
| | - Takashi Minegishi
- Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Gunma, 371-8511, Japan
| | - Nelly Auersperg
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, BC, V6H 3V5, Canada
| | - Peter CK Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the University of British Columbia (UBC), Vancouver, BC, V6H 3V5, Canada
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17
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He PJ, Fujimoto Y, Yamauchi N, Hattori MA. Real-time monitoring of cAMP response element binding protein signaling in porcine granulosa cells modulated by ovarian factors. Mol Cell Biochem 2006; 290:177-84. [PMID: 16633733 DOI: 10.1007/s11010-006-9185-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2005] [Accepted: 03/08/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The present study was performed to establish a real-time monitoring of the cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) signalling using granulosa cells, and to assess the modulation of CREB activity by potential ovarian autocrine/paracrine and oocyte-derived factors. Granulosa cells were isolated from porcine follicles and cultured for 2 days, and then transfected with CRE-containing pGL3. The cells were directly stimulated or cultured with FSH, LH, forskolin, or a permeable cAMP analog, and/or IGF-I, EGF, bFGF, TGF-beta2 or TNF-alpha, or cumulus-oocyte complex (COCs) for the real-time monitoring of CREB signaling. The activation pattern of CREB signaling consisted of three distinct phases, i.e., burst, attenuation and refractory. In contrast to FSH, LH, and forskolin, a cAMP analog induced the prolonged activation, although three distinct phases were observed at its high concentration. Of all the autocrine/paracrine factors, only IGF-I slightly induced CREB activity. On the other hand, TGF-beta2 and TNF-alpha significantly repressed FSH-stimulated transcriptional activation of CREB by 30% (P < 0.05) and 45% (P < 0.05), respectively. Additionally, coculture with COCs caused a significant suppression of transcriptional activation of CREB signaling stimulated by FSH. These results indicate that ovarian autocrine/paracrine factors such as IGF-I, TGF-beta2, TNF-alpha and oocyte-derived factors modulate the CREB signaling. The present study provides a new approach for direct signaling study on transcription factors under the influences of potential factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pei Jian He
- Department of Animal and Marine Bioresource Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture Graduate School, Kyushu University, 6-10-1 Hakozaki, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka 812-8581, Japan
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18
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Kaivo-oja N, Jeffery LA, Ritvos O, Mottershead DG. Smad signalling in the ovary. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2006; 4:21. [PMID: 16611366 PMCID: PMC1459162 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-4-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2005] [Accepted: 04/12/2006] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
It has now been a decade since the first discovery of the intracellular Smad proteins, the downstream signalling molecules of one of the most important growth factor families in the animal kingdom, the transforming growth factor beta (TGF-beta) superfamily. In the ovary, several TGF-beta superfamily members are expressed by the oocyte, granulosa and thecal cells at different stages of folliculogenesis, and they signal mainly through two different Smad pathways in an autocrine/paracrine manner. Defects in the upstream signalling cascade molecules, the ligands and receptors, are known to have adverse effects on ovarian organogenesis and folliculogenesis, but the role of the individual Smad proteins in the proper function of the ovary is just beginning to be understood for example through the use of Smad knockout models. Although most of the different Smad knockouts are embryonic lethal, it is known, however, that in Smad1 and Smad5 knockout mice primordial germ cell development is impaired and that Smad3 deficient mice harbouring a deletion in exon 8 exhibit impaired folliculogenesis and reduced fertility. In this minireview we discuss the role of Smad structure and function in the ovarian context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noora Kaivo-oja
- Programme for Developmental and Reproductive Biology, Biomedicum Helsinki, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland and Department of Bacteriology and Immunology, Haartman Institute, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Luke A Jeffery
- Programme for Developmental and Reproductive Biology, Biomedicum Helsinki, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland and Department of Bacteriology and Immunology, Haartman Institute, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Olli Ritvos
- Programme for Developmental and Reproductive Biology, Biomedicum Helsinki, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland and Department of Bacteriology and Immunology, Haartman Institute, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - David G Mottershead
- Programme for Developmental and Reproductive Biology, Biomedicum Helsinki, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland and Department of Bacteriology and Immunology, Haartman Institute, University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
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19
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Brankin V, Mitchell MRP, Webb B, Hunter MG. Paracrine effects of oocyte secreted factors and stem cell factor on porcine granulosa and theca cells in vitro. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2003; 1:55. [PMID: 12941156 PMCID: PMC184512 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-1-55] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2003] [Accepted: 08/12/2003] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocyte control of granulosa and theca cell function may be mediated by several growth factors via a local feedback loop(s) between these cell types. This study examined both the role of oocyte-secreted factors on granulosa and thecal cells, cultured independently and in co-culture, and the effect of stem cell factor (SCF); a granulosa cell derived peptide that appears to have multiple roles in follicle development. Granulosa and theca cells were isolated from 2-6 mm healthy follicles of mature porcine ovaries and cultured under serum-free conditions, supplemented with: 100 ng/ml LR3 IGF-1, 10 ng/ml insulin, 100 ng/ml testosterone, 0-10 ng/ml SCF, 1 ng/ml FSH (granulosa), 0.01 ng/ml LH (theca) or 1 ng/ml FSH and 0.01 ng/ml LH (co-culture) and with/without oocyte conditioned medium (OCM) or 5 oocytes. Cells were cultured in 96 well plates for 144 h, after which viable cell numbers were determined. Medium was replaced every 48 h and spent medium analysed for steroids. Oocyte secreted factors were shown to stimulate both granulosa cell proliferation (P < 0.001) and oestradiol production (P < 0.001) by granulosa cells throughout culture. In contrast, oocyte secreted factors suppressed granulosa cell progesterone production after both 48 and 144 hours (P < 0.001). Thecal cell numbers were increased by oocyte secreted factors (P = 0.02), together with a suppression in progesterone and androstenedione synthesis after 48 hours (P < 0.001) and after 144 hours (P = 0.02), respectively. Oocyte secreted factors also increased viable cell numbers (P < 0.001) in co-cultures together with suppression of progesterone (P < 0.001) and oestradiol (P < 0.001). In granulosa cell only cultures, SCF increased progesterone production in a dose dependent manner (P < 0.001), whereas progesterone synthesis by theca cells was reduced in a dose dependent manner (P = 0.002). Co-cultured cells demonstrated an increase in progesterone production with increasing SCF dose (P < 0.001) and an increase in oestradiol synthesis at the highest dose of SCF (100 ng/ml). In summary, these findings demonstrate the presence of a co-ordinated paracrine interaction between somatic cells and germ cells, whereby oocyte derived signals interact locally to mediate granulosa and theca cell function. SCF has a role in modulating this local interaction. In conclusion, the oocyte is an effective modulator of granulosa-theca interactions, one role being the inhibition of luteinization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria Brankin
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, Leicestershire. LE12 5RD. UK
| | - Marcus RP Mitchell
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, Leicestershire. LE12 5RD. UK
| | - Bob Webb
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, Leicestershire. LE12 5RD. UK
| | - Morag G Hunter
- School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough, Leicestershire. LE12 5RD. UK
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