Neural regulation of the bovine corpus luteum

Abstract

The ovarian noradrenergic stimulation or noradrenaline (NA) administration directly to the ovary in cow increases ovarian oxytocin (OT) release and post-translational processing of OT synthesis within a few minutes has been established in both in vivo and in vitro studies. Furthermore, NA affects progesterone secretion and its synthesis by an increase of cytochrome P450scc and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity. This effect is mediated via luteal cell β 1- and β 2-receptors. Their total amount correlates with peripheral progesterone concentrations during the luteal phase and this reflects the ability of the ovary to react to β-stimulation. On the other hand, ovarian denervation causes a decrease of steroidogenic activity in the CL, an increase of β-receptors on luteal cells, a delay in follicular development and the disruption of cyclicity. Moreover, decrease of progesterone secretion by 20–30% was seen after brief pharmacological blockade of ovarian β-receptors in the mid-cycle of cattle. We assume that tonic β-stimulation of the CL ensures the basal secretion of progesterone, whereas acute noradrenergic activation supports the CL during stressful situations which could impair its function. Conversely, long-lasting increase in blood catecholamine concentrations markedly decreases the number of β-receptors in CL, presumably due to their down-regulation. Concentrations of dopamine (DA) within the CL are highly correlated with those of NA during the estrous cycle, and are higher in the newly-formed than in the developed corpus luteum, the regressed corpus luteum or the corpus luteum of pregnant females. Bovine CL can synthesise de novo NA from DA as a precursor. Concluding, presented data indicate that noradrenergic stimulation can be an important part of mechanism supporting secretory function of CL.