Periovulatory human oocytes, cumulus cells, and ovarian leukocytes express type 1 but not type 2 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase RNA.

Objective: To further elucidate cortisol metabolism in the follicular microenvironment at the time of oocyte retrieval, the presence of 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (HSD) messenger (m)RNA transcripts in oocytes; cumulus cells; granulosa cells; and CD45(+), CD15(+) leukocytes was assessed semiquantitatively.
Design: Controlled study using semiquantitative assessment of 11beta-HSD mRNA.
Setting: University IVF center.
Patient(s): Twenty-six patients undergoing controlled ovarian hyperstimulation for assisted conception.
Intervention(s): Metaphase II oocytes; cumulus cells; granulosa cells, and CD45(+), CD15(+) leukocytes from individual follicular fluid aspirates.
Main Outcome Measures: Semiquantitative analysis of PCR products after total RNA extraction and complementary DNA synthesis.
Result(s): Periovulatory human oocytes; cumulus cells; CD45(+), CD15(+) leukocytes; and granulosa cells consistently express type 1 but not type 2 11beta-HSD mRNA. Expression of mRNA is greatest in cumulus cells. Type 1 11beta-HSD mRNA expression varies considerably in all cell types and among individual follicles and patients.
Conclusion(s): These studies of mRNA expression suggest that the enzymes present both in and around the periovulatory oocyte will favor a high-cortisol environment.