Flow cytometry of porcine ovarian cells: Antiprogestins play an important role in progesterone receptor upregulation

Abstract

To investigate the mechanism of antiprogestins in the regulation of ovarian function, a dual-chamber culture system was prepared with the amnion membrane of human placenta. Isolated porcine granulosa and thecal cells were grown on both sides of the amnion and co-cultured with or without RU486 and ZK98,734. After 48 h incubation, the progesterone receptor (PR) and estrogen receptor (ER) of both cells were detected by flow cytometry. Progesterone and estradiol concentrations in the media were measured by radioimmunoassay. The results showed that antiprogestins increased PR contents in both cells; no significant change was found for ER. At the same time the progesterone and estradiol production by granulosa cells was inhibited; the progesterone production by thecal cells was reduced also. These data suggest that progesterone regulates progesterone synthesis. This autocrine/paracrine action may be the approach through which progesterone controls PR upregulation. It could be one mechanism for the inhibition of follicle development and steroidogenic function by antiprogestins.

Key Words:

• Progesterone Receptor
• Estrogen Receptor
• Granulosa Cell
• Thecal Cell
• Dual-Chamber Culture
• Flow Cytometry

Additional information

Notes on contributors

B. L. Xiao

Joyce Laing works in the Department of Child and Family Psychiatry, Playfield House, Cupar, Fife, and is a Consultant Art Therapist to Psychiatric Hospitals and Prisons and Chairwoman of the Scottish Society of Art and Psychology.