Inhibition of phosphodiesterase PDE8B reduces activation of primordial follicles in mouse ovaries.

In the ovaries, cyclic adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cAMP) is a second messenger supporting the generation of steroids. Phosphodiesterases (PDEs) are regulators of intracellular cAMP, and therefore, potential regulators of ovarian function. Interestingly, the family of PDE genes are differentially expressed in human oocytes and granulosa cells from primordial and primary follicles, suggesting diverse roles.

Reactive oxygen species limit intestinal mucosa-bacteria homeostasis in vitro.

Interactions between epithelial and immune cells with the gut microbiota have wide-ranging effects on many aspects of human health. Therefore, there is value in developing in vitro models capable of performing highly controlled studies of such interactions. However, several critical factors that enable long term homeostasis between bacterial and mammalian cultures have yet to be established.