Bovine corpus luteum function after removal of granulosa cells from the preovulatory follicle

Abstract Experiments were conducted to determine the effects of removing granulosa cells from bovine preovulatory follicles on subsequent corpus luteum (CL) function. Holstein heifers were assigned to three groups: untreated controls (n=6), removal of granulosa cells (n=9) and removal and return of granulosa cells (n=7). Surgery was performed 18–24 hr after the onset of estrus and in all cases after the preovulatory luteinizing hormone (LH) surge. Jugular venous blood was collected and estrous activity monitored twice daily. Corpora lutea were formed in six heifers in each group. Concentrations of plasma progesterone were reduced (P