Action of PMSG on follicular populations in the heifer

Abstract

The short-term action of PMSG [pregnant mares serum gonadotropin] on the population of growing follicles in cattle was studied using histological methods. On Day 7 of a synchronized estrous cycle 10 Friesian heifers were unilaterally ovariectomized. The remaining ovary was immediately stimulated by an injection of PMSG (2000 IU) and was removed 48 h after the preovulatory discharge of LH [luteinizing hormone]. Control animals did not receive any injection of PMSG. In all ovaries, follicles > 70 .mu.m diameter were counted, measured and checked for atresia. The mitotic index in granulosa cells of follicles of different sizes were estimated in both ovaries of all the PMSG-injected animals. Unilateral ovariectomy alone had no significant effect on follicular populations. In the interval between PMSG injection and removal of the 2nd ovary (148 .+-. 22.7 h), PMSG significantly increased the number of normal preantral follicles but did not change the number of normal antral follicles. The mitotic index doubled in preantral and early antral follicles but remained unchanged in large antral follicles. PMSG stimulated slightly the growth of the antrum in large antral follicles but did not stimulate its formation in preantral follicles. The incidence of atresia among antral follicles, particularly the largest ones (diameter > 1.7 mm), was significantly reduced after PMSG, suggesting some rescue of follicles from atresia.