Induction of aromatase activity in porcine granulosa cells by FSH and cyclic AMP.

Abstract

This paper examines the involvement of mRNA and protein synthesis in the induction of aromatase activity by FSH and also the site of action of androgens on FSH induction of aromatase activity in porcine granulosa cells. Treatment of cells with FSH or dbcAMP for an initial 48 h (induction period) resulted in an induction of aromatase activity, as measured by the production of estradiol during a subsequent 6h test period. Addition of testosterone to cells cultured with dbcAMP during the induction period enhanced the aromatase activity during both the induction and test periods. However, while DHT has no effect during the induction period, it significantly inhibited the aromatase activity during the test period. Culturing the granulosa cells with actinomycin D or cycloheximide during the induction period resulted in a dose-dependent inhibition of FSH induction of aromatase activity, suggestive of the synthesis of new protein(s). These results indicate clearly that FSH induction of aromatase activity involves the synthesis of mRNA and proteins.