Immunohistochemical Observations on the Localization of Calmodulin in the Chicken Ovary

Abstract

Calcium is required for steroidogenesis and contraction of follicular wall at ovulation. The aim of this study was to determine the localization of calmodulin in the ovary of laying hens by immunohistochemistry. It is expected that calmodulin would be found in the tissues that contain calcium. Dense immunoreactive products showing the presence of calmodulin were observed in the granulosa cells and thecal interstitial cells of yellow large follicles and in the interstitial cells of small follicles and stroma. Dense reaction products were also observed in the smooth muscle bundles and in the thecal fibroblasts of yellow large follicles. The presence of calmodulin in steroidogenic and contractile tissues suggests that calcium and calmodulin system is involved in steroidogenesis and contraction of the follicular wall.