Involvement of leukocytes and cytokines in the ovulatory process and corpus luteum function

The role of leukocytes and cytokines in ovarian physiology isnow established, although the function of each cell type andcytokine remains to be determined in detail. Current knowledgeof these effects on follicle development, ovulation, luteinizationand luteotrophic process and luteolysis is reviewed. It is possiblethat further research will help to unravel some of the clinicalmysteries in ovarian function, including polycystic ovary syndrome,premature menopause, ovulatory disorders, and luteal phase defect.Furthermore, the increasing use of cytokines and their antagonistsin clinical practice may have significant effects upon reproductivefunction.