To elucidate the role of peritoneal macrophages in infertility, we investigated how the presence of peritoneal macrophages would affect fecundity in mice. Moreover, we also studied the effects of interleukin-1 on embryonic development.
Study Design
Mice were administered OK-432 intraperitoneally to induce macrophage infiltration of the peritoneal cavity; ovulation was then induced and animals were mated. On day 13 of gestation, fetuses were counted. After injection of OK-432 or interleukin-1, the mice were mated. Three days later, embryos were collected and the stage of embryo development was determined.
Results
In mice given OK-432 (n = 33), four (12%) became pregnant and the mean litter number was 6.0 +/- 3.6, whereas in the control group 23 of 30 mice (77%; p < 0.01) became pregnant and the litter number was 14.1 +/- 5.3 (p < 0.01). OK-432 and interleukin-1 administered intraperitoneally significantly suppressed embryo development (p < 0.01).
Conclusion
Increased numbers of peritoneal macrophages negatively affect fecundity, probably by suppressing embryonic development.
PMID 1442939 1442939 DOI 10.1016/s0002-9378(11)91671-8 10.1016/s0002-9378(11)91671-8
Cite this article
Umesaki, N., Uda, S., Kawabata, M., & Ogita, S. (1992). Significance of peritoneal macrophages on fertility in mice. *American journal of obstetrics and gynecology*, *167*(1), 261-264. https://doi.org/10.1016/s0002-9378(11)91671-8
Umesaki N, Uda S, Kawabata M, Ogita S. Significance of peritoneal macrophages on fertility in mice. Am J Obstet Gynecol. 1992;167(1):261-264. doi:10.1016/s0002-9378(11)91671-8
Umesaki, Naohiko, et al. "Significance of peritoneal macrophages on fertility in mice." *American journal of obstetrics and gynecology*, vol. 167, no. 1, 1992, pp. 261-264.
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