The decline in nIL-33 + cell number was coincident with detection of higher level of the cytokine form of IL-33 by Western blot, suggesting a release of cytokine form of IL-33 before the surge of macrophage migration and atresia. However, the cell number sharply declined before a rapid increase of macrophages and a surge of atresia. Changes in number of nIL-33 + cells showed a tendency similar to that in IL-33 mRNA level during estrous cycle. Cells with nuclear form of IL-33 (nIL-33 + cells) were mostly endothelial cells of veins, either in the inner layer of theca of ovulating follicles during ovulation, or surrounding follicles during estrous cycle. During estrous cycle, IL-33 expression levels fluctuated along with numbers of ovarian macrophages and atresia wave. During ovulation, a high level of IL-33 was transiently expressed, making it the most significantly upregulated immune gene. We systemically examined its expression in ovaries for its potential roles in ovarian functions. Recent studies suggest its roles beyond immune responses. IL-33 is a new member of the IL-1 cytokine gene family. Critical roles of immune cells or molecules in those events have been well recognized. Frequently occurring events such as ovulation and ovarian atresia are accompanied with tissue destruction and repairing. Ovaries are among the most active organs.
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