CYCLIC AMP AND CYCLIC GMP ACCUMULATION IN HAMSTER PRE-OVULATORY FOLLICLES STIMULATED WITH LH AND FSH

Abstract

Cyclic[c]AMP and cGMP accumulation in hamster pre-ovulatory follicles was determined after in vitro stimulation by LH [luteinizing hormone] and FSH [follicle stimulating hormone]. Combined time course and dose response experiments determined that the acute response of the follicles (0-30 min) to LH and FSH was similar with respect to cAMP accumulation. The pattern of cGMP accumulation was distinctly different in LH and FSH stimulated follicles. LH increased follicular cGMP only at the lowest dose (0.005 IU/ml), while higher doses of LH had no effect. In contrast, FSH at all doses stimulated cGMP accumulation. The different cAMP to cGMP relationships generated in the follicles by LH and FSH may be determinants in the specificity of hormone action in preovulatory follicles.