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Estrogen production by fetal rat gonads
1Laboratoire de Zoologie et d'Embryologie expérimentale de l'Université Louis-Pasteur, Strasbourg, France.
Summary
Fetal rat testes and ovaries exhibit aromatase activity, producing estrogens. This activity is enhanced by cAMP and gonadotropins, with responsiveness linked to receptor presence.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Endocrinology
- Developmental biology
Background:
- Aromatase is crucial for estrogen synthesis.
- Understanding fetal gonadal aromatase is key to reproductive development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate aromatase activity and estrogen secretion in fetal rat testes and ovaries.
- To determine the effects of cAMP and gonadotropins (FSH, LH) on fetal gonadal aromatase.
Main Methods:
- Conversion of radiolabeled precursors (testosterone, 19-hydroxyandrostenedione) to estrogens.
- Quantification using double isotopic dilution and recrystallization.
- Assessment of hormonal stimulation (cAMP, FSH, LH).
Main Results:
- Fetal testes produced primarily estradiol; ovaries produced mostly estrone.
- Aromatase activity was stimulated by cAMP in both gonads by fetal day 17.
- FSH stimulated testicular aromatase at fetal day 17, but ovarian stimulation occurred postnatally.
- Estrogen secretion was stimulated by cAMP and gonadotropins, with timing linked to receptor appearance.
Conclusions:
- Fetal rat gonads possess functional aromatase activity.
- Hormonal regulation of aromatase and estrogen secretion develops early in fetal life.
- Gonadotropin responsiveness correlates with receptor presence, highlighting developmental regulation.