Series Studys On Expression And Modulation Of GDF-9 And FOXL2

Part â… THE EFFECT OF ANDROGEN ON EXPRESSION CHANGES OF GDF-9 Objectives Growth differentiation factor-9 (GDF-9) originating from the oocyte plays a major role in early folliculogenesis. To further investigate the expression and the related modulatory mechanisms of GDF-9, we explore the influences of androgen on GDF-9 expression.Methods 1. In vivo: Build up the model of androgen-induced sterile mice, then in Situ Hybridization technique was used to test the expression of GDF9 mRNA in ovaries, GDF-9 protein was detected by immunohistochemistry; 2. In vitro: Mouse follicles were cultured with or without testosterone for 72 hours, GDF-9 protein was detected by immunohistochemisty.Results The expression of GDF-9 mRNA and protein in androgen-induced sterile mice group was lower than control oocytes, especially in primary and secondary follicles (P<0.05). We analysed 135 oocytes from follicles cultured in vitro of which 65 with testosterone or 70 without testosterone, then found that testosterone decreased the level of GDF-9 protein expression (P<0.05).This findings was conformed with that of in vivo experiments.Conclusions Androgen may decrease GDF-9 mRNA and protein expression. Reduced expression of GDF-9 mRNA and protein was likely associated with follicular development arrest in PCOS.