A novel ovary-specific and ovulation-associated variant of epoxide hydrolase 2

Ovulation is a complex process initiated by the surge of the pituitary luteinizing hormone (LH) that provokes the expression of specific genes. We report herein the isolation and characterization of an ovulation-associated, ovary-specific novel isoform of epoxide hydrolase 2 (Ephx2), Ephx2C. This variant is exclusively expressed in the granulosa cells of preovulatory mouse ovarian follicles. The LH-induced expression of Ephx2C is mediated by the protein kinase A and partially by the protein kinase C signaling pathways. The involvement of p38 kinase has also been demonstrated.