Modifications of receptor concentrations for adrenaline, steroid hormones,prostaglandin F-2 alpha and gonadotropins in hypophysis and ovary of dairycows with ovarian cysts

Receptor concentrations for adrenaline, steroid hormones, PGF(2 alpha), LH and FSH were measured in the hypophysis and ovary of dairy cows with ovaria n cysts and the results were compared with those of healthy animals. Signif icant modifications were found in all receptor concentrations, either betwe en follicular and luteal structures or between the hypophyseal and ovarian receptorial status. The correlations between catecholaminergic and steroida l systems have already been demonstrated, particularly those existing betwe en p-adrenoceptors and steroid hormone receptors. Particular attention has been given to the possibility that a derangement in neurogenic inputs may b e at the basis of some ovarian pathologies. The results of the present stud y suggest that the modifications of the ovarian and hypophyseal receptorial status of healthy and affected cows could play an important role in the pa thogenesis of ovarian cysts. (C) 1999 Academic Press.