Growth factors in human ovarian follicle fluid and growth factor receptors in granulosa-luteal cells

The levels of oestradiol (E(2)), progesterone (P-4), transforming growth factor alpha (TGF alpha), transforming growth factor beta 2 (TGF beta(2)), insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I), platelet-derived growth factor AB (PDGF-AB) and epidermal growth factor (EGF) were measured in follicular fluids obtained from patients undergoing ovarian stimulation as part of art in vitro fertilisation program. Each of the substances was detected in all of the fluid samples tested, except TGF alpha (which was detected in 90% of samples tested), PDGF-AB (70%) and EGF (2%). Comparisons were made between each of these factors, follicular maturity, successful oocyte recovery and the outcome of fertilisation and embryo transfer: No statistically significant correlations were found. The presence of receptors for EGF, IGF-I and PDGF in extracts from granulosa-luteal cells isolated from follicular fluids was detected by means of Western blotting. Tire co-localisation of these growth factors and their receptors within the ovarian follicle suggests a likely role in control of follicular development.