Prostaglandins and steroidogenesis by isolated rabbit ovarian follicles

Abstract

Prostaglandins of the F and E series at concentrations from 1 to 100 microgram/ml had no effect on steroidogenesis by isolated rabbit follicles. Indomethacin and 7-oxa-13-prostynoic acid at doses lower than 100 microgram/ml failed to prevent the LH-induced increase in testosterone accumulation by follicles. At 1 mg/ml these inhibitors prevented the LH effects. Prostaglandin E2 and F2alpha had no effect on testosterone accumulation. However, prostaglandin E2 seemed to enhance the LH-induced accumulation of androstenedione and progesterone by the follicles. These data suggest that prostaglandins play a minor role in steroidogenesis by isolated rabbit ovarian follicles.