Effect of Serotonin (5-Hydroxytryptamine) on Follicular Development in Porcine

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Biology
• Neuroendocrinology
• Mammalian Physiology

Background:

• 5-Hydroxytryptamine (serotonin, 5-HT) is a neurotransmitter influencing mammalian tissue functions.
• Its role in porcine follicle development and granulosa cell (GC) proliferation remains unclear.
• Understanding 5-HT's impact on ovarian physiology is crucial for reproductive research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate 5-HT and its receptor expression in the pig ovary.
• To determine the effect of 5-HT on porcine granulosa cell proliferation and follicle development.
• To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying 5-HT's action in the ovary.

Main Methods:

• ELISA and quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR) to assess 5-HT and receptor levels.
• EdU assays to evaluate granulosa cell proliferation.
• Gene expression analysis of cell cycle and estrogen synthesis markers (CYP19A1, HSP17β1).

Main Results:

• Differential expression of 5-HT receptors was observed in porcine ovaries and follicles.
• 5-HT treatment increased cell cycle gene expression and induced granulosa cell proliferation.
• 5-HT treatment decreased the expression of genes involved in estrogen (E2) synthesis.

Conclusions:

• 5-Hydroxytryptamine influences porcine follicle development by promoting granulosa cell proliferation.
• 5-HT may inhibit estrogen synthesis, suggesting a dual role in ovarian function.
• This study provides novel insights into the neuroendocrine regulation of follicular development in pigs.