Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 25, 2026
Characterization and Functional Prediction of Bacteria in Ovarian Tissues
Published on: October 23, 2021
The effect of Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide and tumour necrosis factor alpha on ovarian function
Erin J Williams1, Kelly Sibley, Aleisha N Miller
1Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Royal Veterinary College, London, UK. erin.williams@ucd.ie
Problem:
Pelvic inflammatory disease and metritis are important causes of infertility in humans and domestic animals. Uterine infection with Escherichia coli in cattle is associated with reduced ovarian follicle growth and decreased estradiol secretion. We hypothesized that this effect could be mediated by the bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) or cytokines such as tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNFalpha).
Method Of Study:
In vitro, bovine ovarian theca and granulosa cells were treated with LPS or TNFalpha and steroid secretion measured. In vivo, the effect of LPS or TNFalpha intrauterine infusion was determined by ovarian ultrasonography and measurement of hormones in cattle.
Results:
Lipopolysaccharide reduced granulosa cell estradiol secretion, whilst TNFalpha decreased theca and granulosa cell androstenedione and estradiol production, respectively. In vivo, fewer animals ovulated following intrauterine infusion with LPS or TNFalpha.
Conclusion:
Lipopolysaccharide and TNFalpha suppress ovarian cell function, supporting the concept that pelvic inflammatory disease and metritis are detrimental for bovine ovarian health.
