Date of Graduation
2000
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Type
MS
Committee Chair
Jorge A. Flores
Abstract
Endothelin-1 (ET-1) is known to inhibit steroidogenesis in granulosa and luteal cells. This study investigates ET-1 gene expression to localize the source of synthesis. Previous studies showed the presence of ET-1 in porcine ovarian granulosa cell cultures. The present study provides the first evidence that gene expression of ET-1 occurs in the porcine ovary exclusively within the granulosa cells of antral follicles. ET-1 immunoreactivity was observed in 65.7% of the large antral follicles, particularly in more differentiated granulosa cells. An autocrine role for ET-1 is suggested because ET-1 binding sites were previously detected here. ET-1 expression and atresia (one aspect of follicular development) occurred in less than 6% of any class of development. Atresia occurs most frequently in small Graafian follicles. Atresia occurs in all stages of development but does not appear to be associated with ET-1 expression. ET-1 may be related to follicular development at or following antrum formation.
Recommended Citation
Sasway, Hope Marie, "Endothelin-1 gene expression in the porcine ovary: Follicular development." (2000). Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports. 10471.
https://researchrepository.wvu.edu/etd/10471