Pro-inflammatory cytokines disrupt <i>in vitro</i> preantral follicle development by targeting granulosa and theca cell functions.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Chronic low-grade inflammation is increasingly recognized as a contributing factor to female infertility. Elevated levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 are observed in ovarian conditions including obesity, polycystic ovary syndrome, endometriosis, and reproductive aging. However, how these cytokines affect early follicular development remains poorly understood. This study aimed to elucidate the effects of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 on granulosa cell (GC) and theca cell (TC) function during the preantral-to-antral transition-a critical checkpoint that determines follicular growth or atresia.

Methods

We employed a three-dimensional culture model using mechanically isolated rat preantral follicles. Follicles were treated with TNF-α, IL-1β,

SUBMITTER: Shirafuji A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12855059 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature