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The expression of heterotrimeric (αβγ subunits) GTP-binding regulatory proteins (G proteins) and the activation of G protein-linked receptors in human granulosa cells were investigated. The cells were obtained from stimulated follicles in women undergoing in vitro fertilization and were cultured in serum-supplemented medium. Immunoblotting with specific antibodies showed that granulosa cell membranes express αs, αi3 αi1,2, αq,11 and β subunits. Three antibodies against αo failed to detect this protein. The cells responded to hCG and to prostaglandin E2 with a dose-dependent increase in cAMP formation, confirming the functional activation of Gαs. The α2 adrenoceptor agonist, clonidine, inhibited hCG-stimulated cAMP formation and this effect was blocked with pertussis toxin, thus involving a Gi-type protein, most likely Gαi2. Oxytocin provoked an increase in formation of inositol phosphates and intracellular calcium concentration, which was partly pertussis toxin resistant, providing evidence of Gαq,11 activation. However, a significant component of the response to oxytocin could be blocked by pertussis toxin, indicating Gi-mediated phospholipase C activation (by either αi or βγ subunits). These data demonstrate the presence of G proteins in granulosa cells and suggest a complex regulation of hormonal signalling. The concentration of cAMP in these cells depended on the balance of Gαs:Gαi activation, whereas activation of the inositol phospholipid pathway and rises in intracellular calcium involved both Gq,11 and Gi pathways.
