Keiko Yasuda

Modulation of porcine granulosa cell functions by interleukin-1

Increasing evidence suggests that functions of the immune system and gonads are closely related with each other. In cultures of granulosa and luteal cells, macrophages have been shown to modulate steroidogenic functions. In this paper we present the modulatory effects of interleukin-1, a cytokine produced predominantly by activated macrophages, on gonadotropin-induced differentiation, as well as growth of cultured porcine granulosa cells.

Growth Factor Modulation of Gonadotropin Action on Porcine Granulosa Cells

Ovarian functions are thought to be under the regulation of autocrine or paracrine control as well as endocrine control. Although the endocrine regulation of the ovary has been well described, little is known about the local intra-ovarian control. Considering that ovarian granulosa cells of developing follicles are confined to an isolated avascular environment and “cultured” in follicular fluid in vivo, substances concentrated in follicular fluid may play important roles in local intra-ovarian control.