RESUMEN

Many studies identified new components of the renin­angiotensin system (RAS), such as Angiotensin-(1-7) [Ang-(1­7)] and Angiotensin-converting enzyme type 2 (ACE2), in mammalian ovaries.We previously showed Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE) inhibition, which increases the level of Ang-(1­7), stimulated ovarian estradiol output in ewe after estrous synchronization. Considering that Ang-(1­7) stimulates ovarian function and elevated estradiol before ovulation is associated with increased chance of achieving pregnancy, the present study investigated whether ACE inhibition throughout a superovulation protocol in ewe might improve ovulation outcome. At first, immunohistochemistry in ovaries of nonpregnant ewes revealed localization of Angiotensin II (Ang II), Ang-(1­7) and ACE2 in theca cells of antral follicles and in corpus luteum. Ang II and Ang-(1­7)were also detected in follicular fluid (FF) by Radioimmunoassay (RIA). Enalapril treatment throughout the superovulation protocol decreased 17ß-estradiol (E2) output and raised progesterone:estradiol (P4:E2) ratio without a direct influence on ovulation and quality of embryos.

Asunto(s)

Inhibidores de la Enzima Convertidora de Angiotensina/farmacología , Enalapril/farmacología , Estradiol/metabolismo , Progesterona/metabolismo , Ovinos/fisiología , Superovulación/efectos de los fármacos , Angiotensina I/metabolismo , Angiotensina II/metabolismo , Enzima Convertidora de Angiotensina 2 , Animales , Embrión no Mamífero/efectos de los fármacos , Embrión no Mamífero/embriología , Femenino , Ovulación/efectos de los fármacos , Fragmentos de Péptidos/metabolismo , Peptidil-Dipeptidasa A/metabolismo