Platelet-derived growth factor enhances granulosa cell luteinizing hormone receptor induction by follicle-stimulating hormone and serum.

Platelet-derived growth factor potentiated FSH-dependent LH receptor induction in serum-free and serum-containing cultures of rat granulosa cells. Levels of LH receptor binding comparable to pre-ovulatory levels could be achieved in vitro using a combination of FSH, platelet-derived growth factor, and serum. Receptor sites induced under these conditions were capable of mediating an hCG-stimulated increase in progestin secretion. Our results in vitro suggest a possible role for platelet-derived growth factor or related compounds in granulosa cell differentiation in vivo.