Distribution of leukocyte subtypes in the sheep ovary after laser drilling

The distribution of leukocyte subtypes in the sheep ovary following laser drilling of the ovarian capsule was examined to understand a possible mechanism by which this treatment promotes ovulation in polycystic ovarian syndrome. Ovaries were removed from sheep at different time-points following laparoscopic laser drilling and immunohistochemical detection of leukocyte subtypes, using specific monoclonal antibodies; standard histological staining was performed. Migration of leukocytes into the laser-drilled site was observed as early as 6 h after laser drilling and the total number of leukocytes in the site was found to increase up to the 12th day after surgery. In the earlier period, polymorphonuclear leukocytes were the dominant leukocyte subtypes, while macrophages and lymphocytes were the major cellular components on the 12th day and later. These results show that the tissue changes in the ovary following laser drilling are consistent with a local inflammatory reaction. The prolonged appearance of numerous macrophages following the acute inflammatory phase could lead to the secretion of cytokines and other substances suggested to be important in promoting ovulation. These data indicate that part of the effectiveness of the laser drilling in polycystic ovarian syndrome may be attributable to the secretory products of these leukocytes.