Abstract
Stem cell factor (SCF), a pleiotropic glycoprotein with a molecular weight of 25–36 kd, is a ligand for the tyrosine kinase receptor encoded by the c-kit protooncogene. The SCF and c-kit are essential for germ cell development, melanogenesis, and hematopoiesis. Although several lines of evidence in experimental animals suggest that SCF and c-kit may also play essential roles in human ovaries, little information is available. We previously reported that c-kit receptor messenger RNA (mRNA) was expressed in human oocytes (1). In the present study, we examined the expressions of SCF, a ligand for c-kit, in human oocytes, granulosa, theca, and ovarian stromal cells. We also investigated the relationship between SCF and steroid hormone concentrations in follicular fluid.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.