| Abstract: | Objective: To investigate the role of human theca cell(TC) and granulo sa cell(GC) interaction and insulin(INS) in steroidogenesis in normal ovarian cy cle and in patients with PCOS. Methods: Ovarian theca and granulosa cells from eleven normal wo men and eight PCOS patients were co-cultured on opposite side of collagen with or without INS. The concentrations of estradiol(E2), progesterone(P) and andro stenedione (A) in the culture medium were examined by ELISA method.Results: When co-cultured with GC, TC in PCOS group produced mo re A and less P than those of normal group. When co-cultured with theca cells, granulosa cells in PCOS group produced more E2 than those of normal group. Add ition of INS increased the difference significantly.Conclusions: The GC and TC interaction from the normal and PCOS ovaries is different. There is a high A and high E2 intraovary loop of PC OS leading to premature arrest of follicle growth and anovulation. Insulin may p lay an important regulatory role. |
