Possible actions of tumor necrosis factor-alpha in ovarian function
2004
Sakumoto, R. (National Inst. of Agrobiological Sciences, Tsukuba, Ibaraki (Japan)) | Okuda, K.
Abstract. Tumor necrosis factor-a (TNFa) is a multifunctional cytokine that was first described as a tumoricidal factor produced by activated macrophages. Extensive research over the last two decades has suggested that TNFa has physiologically diverse actions in ovarian function in a variety of species. TNFa and its specific receptors are present in the ovaries of many species. Furthermore, TNFa plays multiple and probably important roles in corpus luteum (CL) function as well as ovarian cell function throughout the estrous cycle. This review focuses on recent studies documenting TNFa in ovarian follicles and CL in several mammals. In addition, possible roles of TNFa in ovarian function throughout the estrous cycle and in the gestation period are discussed.
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