Gonadotropin stimulation alters the expression of local growth factors in the granulosa cells involved in paracrine communication, dominant follicle selection and luteinization

Abstract

Recruitment of antral cohort for further growth and the selection of a single follicle to reach the ovulatory stage are achieved within the ovary by the actions of endogenously produced FSH in the natural cycle. Certain growth factors locally produced in the ovary interact with FSH in a paracrine manner and modulate FSH signaling in a way that promotes estradiol (E2) production (aromatization) while inhibiting progesterone synthesis (by limiting 3-β HSD activity), acting as a luteinization inhibitor during rapid growth of antral follicles.