Altered ovarian follicle function in ACTH-treated gilts

To assess the possible influence of increased endogenous glucocorticoid levels on ovarian function, gilts were treated with either adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) or saline during the luteal phase of the oestrous cycle, from day 9 to day 14, and ovariectomised on day 14. Individual follicles were dissected from each ovary and their follicular fluid (FF), granulosa and theca cells were recovered. Cell viability was determined by dye exclusion. Cortisol (C), oestradiol-17β (E2), oestrone (E1), testosterone (T) and androstenedione (A) concentrations were measured in FF while cellular oestrogen and androgen production was assessed during a 3 h incubation period.