The role of transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) during ovarian follicular development in sheep.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Recently, several members of the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) superfamily have been shown to be essential for regulating the growth and differentiation of ovarian follicles and thus fertility.

Methods

Ovaries of neonatal and adult sheep were examined for expression of the TGF-betas 1-3 and their receptors (RI and RII) by in situ hybridization using ovine cDNAs. The effects of TGF-beta 1 and 2 on proliferation and differentiation of ovine granulosa cells in vitro were also studied.

Results

The expression patterns of TGF-beta 1 and 2 were similar in that both mRNAs were first observed in thecal cells of type 3 (small pre-antral) follicles. Expression of both mRNAs continued to be observed in the theca of larger follicles and was also present in

SUBMITTER: Juengel JL 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC539244 | biostudies-literature | 2004 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature