Epidermal growth factor induces a sexually dimorphic proliferative response of lactotroph cells through protein kinase C-ERK1/2-Pit-1 in vitro.

摘要: Lactotroph cells display morphological and functional heterogeneity, a feature which is closely related to the oestrogenic environment. In this study, we focused on sex-related differences linked proliferative secretory responses of lactotrophs exposed EGF in vitro. Furthermore, addressed involvement PKCe/ERK1/2 signalling pathway contribution Pit-1 actions primary pituitary cultures from male female rats. promoted differential activity PRL cells, was associated sex, as revealed by uptake bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU). females, mitogenic up nine times greater, whereas males, number BrdU-labelled only doubled compared control. However, both models, had similar effectiveness promoting secretion. also induced significant increase PKCe, P -ERK 1/2, protein levels, were higher females than males. Pre-incubation with BIM blocked EGF-induced ERK 1/2 activation expression. These results suggest sexually dimorphic response lactotroph effects EGF, being involved action.