LOCALIZATION OF TRANSFORMING GROWTH-FACTOR-BETA-1 IN THE QUAIL OVARY

Using immunocytochemical techniques for the localization of transformi ng growth factor-beta 1 in the quail ovary, we observed immunostaining predominantly in the ooplasm of oocytes, in the zona radiata of devel oping oocytes, and in granulosa cells. In pre-ovulatory follicles, imm unoreactivity was also detected in the theca interna. Some immunostain ed granulosa and thecal cells were found in the wall of post-ovulatory follicles. It is suggested that, as in mammals, transforming growth f actor-beta 1 is a paracrine and autocrine modulator of granulosa and o ocyte maturation.