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Prolactin inhibits ovulation by reducing ovarian plasmin generation
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kyorin University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan.
Biology of Reproduction
|June 1, 1994
Summary
Prolactin (PRL) inhibits ovulation by blocking ovarian plasmin generation, not prostaglandin or leukotriene synthesis. This study reveals PRL
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Endocrinology
- Ovarian Physiology
Background:
- Ovulation is a complex process involving hormonal and local factors.
- The role of prolactin (PRL) in ovulation induction is not fully understood.
- Plasmin generation is implicated in ovulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of prolactin (PRL) on gonadotropin-induced ovulation.
- To examine PRL's impact on prostaglandin (PG), leukotriene (LT), and plasmin biosynthesis in vitro.
- To elucidate the mechanism by which PRL affects ovulation.
Main Methods:
- In vitro perfusion of rabbit ovaries.
- Administration of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and PRL.
- Measurement of PG, LT, and plasmin generation.
- Assay of plasmin bound to alpha 2-plasmin inhibitor (alpha 2PI-Plm).
Main Results:
- PRL inhibited hCG-induced ovulation dose-dependently.
- PRL did not affect hCG-stimulated PG and LTB4 production.
- PRL significantly inhibited hCG-stimulated ovarian plasmin generation.
- A correlation was found between ovulatory efficiency and plasmin generation.
Conclusions:
- PRL directly inhibits ovulation, at least partly by suppressing ovarian plasmin generation.
- The findings highlight the critical role of the plasmin system in ovulation.
- PRL's inhibitory effect on ovulation is mediated through the plasmin system.