Human oocyte maturation is dependent on LH-stimulated accumulation of the epidermal growth factor-like growth factor, amphiregulin.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The LH surge promotes ovulation via activation of multiple signaling networks in the ovarian follicle. Studies in animal models have shown the importance of LH-induced activation of the epidermal growth factor (EGF)signaling network in critical peri-ovulatory events. We investigated the biological significance of regulatory mechanisms mediated by EGF-like growth factors during LH stimulation in humans.

Methods

We characterized the EGF signaling network in mature human ovarian follicles using in vivo and in vitro approaches. Amphiregulin (AREG) levels were measured in 119 follicular fluid (FF) samples from IVF/ICSI patients. Biological activity of human FF was assessed using in vitro oocyte maturation, cumulus expansion and cell mitogenic assays.

Results

ARE

SUBMITTER: Zamah AM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2939758 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature