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Programmed cell death in preovulatory ovine follicles
1Department of Animal Science, University of Wyoming, Laramie 82071, USA.
Biology of Reproduction
|July 1, 1995
Summary
Apoptosis, or programmed cell death, increases in ovine ovarian tissues as ovulation nears. This cellular deletion is crucial for ovulation, particularly at the rupture site.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Cell Biology
- Ovarian Physiology
Background:
- Apoptosis is a fundamental biological process involved in tissue remodeling.
- Understanding the role of apoptosis in ovulation is key to reproductive research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and pattern of apoptosis in ovine ovarian tissues during the preovulatory period.
- To determine the association of apoptosis with follicular rupture and ovulation.
Main Methods:
- Direct in situ fluorescence detection of digoxigenin-labeled genomic DNA was employed.
- Apoptotic cells were quantified within preovulatory ovine follicles and surrounding ovarian tissues.
Main Results:
- Apoptotic cells progressively increased in the ovarian surface epithelium, tunica albuginea, and apical follicular wall as ovulation approached.
- Follicles at the avascular rupture site lacked ovarian surface and granulosa epithelia.
- Granulosa cell dispersion in the basal region was not linked to apoptosis.
Conclusions:
- Apoptosis plays a significant role in the physiological changes preceding ovulation in sheep.
- Specific interactions between preovulatory follicles and the ovarian surface precede programmed cell death and ovulation.