Abstract
Prostaglandin (PG) F2alpha released from the uterus in a pulsatile fashion is essential to induce regression of the corpus luteum (CL) in the cow. In addition to the uterus, the CL has also been recognized as a site of PGF(2alpha) production. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the detailed dynamics of the releasing profile of CL-derived PGF2alpha together with uterus-derived PGF2alpha during spontaneous luteolysis in the cow. Non-lactating Holstein cows (n = 6) were surgically implanted with a microdialysis system (MDS) on day 15 (oestrus = day 0) of the oestrous cycle. Simultaneously, catheters were implanted to collect ovarian venous plasma ipsilateral to the CL as well as jugular venous plasma. The concentrations of PGF2alpha, 13,14-dihydro-15-keto-PGF2alpha (PGFM) and progesterone in the MDS and plasma samples were determined by enzyme immunoassays. The intra-luteal PGF2alpha secretion slightly increased after the onset of luteolysis (0 h) and drastically increased from 24 h, and was maintained at high levels towards the following oestrus. Furthermore, PGF2alpha was released from the CL into the ovarian vein in a pulsatile manner during spontaneous luteolysis. Also, the fact that intra-luteal secretion of PGF2alpha and PGFM showed a positive correlation indicates the existence of a local metabolic pathway for PGF2alpha in the CL. In conclusion, the present study clarified the real-time dynamics of uterus-derived PGF2alpha and CL-derived PGF2alpha during spontaneous luteolysis in the cow, and gives the first in vivo evidence that the CL releases PGF2alpha during spontaneous luteolysis in the cow. Although the physiological relevance of CL-derived PGF2alpha appears to be restricted to a local role as an autocrine/paracrine factor in the CL, overall results support the concept that the local release of PGF2alpha within the regressing CL amplifies the luteolytic action of PGF2alpha from the uterus.
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.