Effect of Steriods on Germinal Vesicle of Oocytes of the Frog (Rana pipiens) in vitro.

Abstract

Individual follicles, with their enclosed oocytes, were dissected from the ovary of the leopard frog, Rana pipiens, and their response to steroid hormones studied. Biologically and chemically related substance, progesterone, pregnenolone and 11-deoxycorticosterone, were most effective in producing germinal vesicle breakdown. Removal of the follicular tissue did not prevent the action of the steroid progesterone on the germinal vesicle. Steroids appear to act directly on the oocyte and calcium ions appear to be important for the biological action of the steroids.