Abstract

The effects of Matrigel, a reconstituted basement membrane, on human granulosa cells were investigated. Cells were obtained from follicular aspirate in the course of oocyte retrieval for in vitro fertilization and were cultured on either a surface coated with Matrigel or uncoated plastic. Light and electron microscopy showed that granulosa cells cultured on Matrigel demonstrated three-dimensional aggregated cells with well differentiated morphology: numerous lipid droplets, microvilli, junctional complexes and lumen-like structures were seen. In contrast, cells cultured on plastic were flattened, poorly differentiated and showed apoptotic cells. Immunocytochemistry showed that the proportion of immunopositive cells for 3beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase was increased in cultures on Matrigel. The results of the present study suggest that culture on Matrigel promotes the differentiation of human granulosa cells and provides a useful tool which may improve the efficiency of in vitro fertilization.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

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.