Horm Metab Res 2001; 33(10): 573-576
DOI: 10.1055/s-2001-17902
Original Basic
© Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart · New York

Distinct Expression of Endothelin Receptor Subtypes A and B in Luteinized Human Granulosa Cells

M. Gentili1 , N. Obermüller2,3 , H.G. Schleich1 , F. Melchert1 , M. Weigel1
  • 1 Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
  • 2 Medical Research Center, Faculty for Clinical Medicine Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Germany
  • 3 Division of Nephrology, Medical Clinic IV, University of Frankfurt/M., Germany
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
18 October 2001 (online)

Endothelins (ET) are potent vasoconstrictive peptides originally isolated from vascular endothelial cells. Their biological effects are mediated through two different receptors, the endothelin-1 (ET-1)-selective endothelin receptor subtype ETA and the non-selective receptor subtype ETB. ET-1 protein has been found in human ovarian follicular fluid and ET-1 mRNA expression has been demonstrated in ovarian tissue. These findings indicate that the endothelin-system participates in the modulation of ovarian function, probably acting in an autocrine/paracrine manner. In the current study we used freshly aspirated, luteinized human granulosa cells (hGC) representing an in vitro model of the early corpus luteum. By means of RT-PCR and immunocytochemistry we investigated whether luteinized human granulosa cells express ETA and ETB receptors. Specific amplification products of ETA transcripts were detected in all samples investigated. In contrast, only after using a three-fold amount of ETB reverse transcripts we were able to demonstrate specific, but weak amplification products. In addition, immunocytochemical staining for ETA but not for ETB was found in granulosa cell preparations. The present study provides clear evidence that human granulosa cells predominantly express ETA receptor subtype mRNA and protein hinting to its possible role in follicle maturation and corpus luteum formation.

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Monika  Gentili

Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
Universitätsklinikum Mannheim

Theodor-Kutzer-Ufer
68167 Mannheim
Germany


Phone: + 49 (621) 383-3122

Fax: + 49 (621) 383-3814

Email: monika.gentili@gyn.ma.uni-heidelberg.de