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Increase in calcitonin gene related peptide (CGRP) and decrease in mast cells in dihydroepiandrosterone
A Krishna1, A al Rifai, B Hubner
1Department of Zoology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi 221 005, India.
Anatomy and Embryology
|June 20, 2001
Summary
Polycystic ovaries in rats induced by dihydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) showed increased calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP)-positive nerve fibers. These ovaries also exhibited a significant reduction in mast cells, suggesting altered neuroimmune function.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Neuroendocrinology
- Immunology
Background:
- Polycystic ovary is associated with increased intraovarian nerve fibers and sympathetic hyperresponsiveness.
- Peptidergic nerves and mast cells, potentially interacting via nerve growth factor, may play a role.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence of calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP)-positive nerve fibers and mast cells in dihydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)-induced polycystic ovaries in rats.
Main Methods:
- Histometric analysis of ovarian morphology.
- Immunolabeling to quantify CGRP-positive nerve fibers.
- Dot blot analysis to assess CGRP levels.
- Toluidine blue staining to identify and count mast cells.
Main Results:
- DHEA-treated ovaries had fewer corpora lutea and intact antral follicles compared to controls.
- A significant increase in CGRP-positive nerve fibers and varicosities was observed in DHEA-treated ovaries.
- CGRP signal intensity was significantly higher in DHEA-treated ovaries.
- Mast cell density was markedly reduced in the medulla of DHEA-treated ovaries.
Conclusions:
- The observed increase in CGRP-positive nerve fibers and decrease in mast cells indicates an altered neuroimmune function in DHEA-induced polycystic rat ovaries.