Presence of growth/differentiation factor-15 cytokine in human follicular fluid, granulosa cells, and oocytes.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to determine whether the GDF-15 is present in follicular fluid; to evaluate if there is a relation between follicular and serum levels of GDF-15 and fertility status of study subjects; and to test whether granulosa cells, oocytes, or both produce GDF-15.

Methods

This study used follicular fluid (FF, serum, and oocytes obtained under informed consent from women undergoing oocyte retrieval for in vitro fertilization. It also used ovaries from deceased preterm newborns. Collection of FF and blood at the time of oocyte retrieval, ELISA and western blot were performed to determine levels and forms of GDF-15. Concentrations of GDF-15 in FF and serum, its expression in ovarian tissue, and secretion from granulosa cells were analyzed.

Results<

SUBMITTER: Soucek K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6086784 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature