title: An anti-inflammatory role for glucocorticoids in the ovaries?
abstract: Roles of glucocorticoids in the direct regulation of ovarian function are poorly understood. This opinion paper highlights: (1) the inflammatory nature of the ovulatory process; (2) the contributions of cytokines and prostaglandins (hence inflammation) to ovulation; (3) the development-related pattern of 11beta-hydroxysteroid (11beta HSD) isoform expression (hence glucocorticoid metabolism) that occurs in ovarian follicles; and (4) the attribution of general anti-inflammatory properties of glucocorticoids to their interference with prostaglandin synthesis. We interpret the evidence cited to hypothesise that corticosteroids serve an anti-inflammatory role during ovulation, thereby promoting rapid healing of the wound left by follicular rupture. Other possible levels of glucocorticoid action in the ovaries are also considered.
authors.affiliation: Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Edinburgh, UK.
authors.forename: S G
authors.initials: SG
authors.lastname: Hillier
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Tetsuka
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D005260:Female; D005938:Glucocorticoids / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D006854:Hydrocortisone / Q000502:physiology; D007249:Inflammation / Q000517:prevention & control*; D009866:Oogenesis; D010053:Ovary / Q000502:physiology*; D010060:Ovulation
chemical_list: D005938:Glucocorticoids; D006854:Hydrocortisone