Induction of aromatase in human granulosa cells by both follicle stimulating hormone and insulin-like growth factor-i involves tyrosine phosphorylation

Evaluation of the intracellular signalling mechanisms of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) was performed in luteinized and non-luteinized human granulosa cells. A severalfold increase in estradiol production from androstenedione was induced by both hormones in these cells, while only FSH led to a concomitant increase in cAMP. IGF-I bound specifically to its receptor in these cells. Specific tyrosine kinase inhibitors (tyrphostins) blocked the effects of both FSH and IGF-I on aromatase activity without altering FSH-induced cAMP accumulation. These findings demonstrate an involvement of a tyrosine kinase pathway in the intracellular signalling mechanism of the IGF-I effect on aromatase activity. Furthermore, since FSH induction of aromatase activity can be blocked by a tyrosine kinase inhibitor without affecting the level of cAMP production, it can be suggested that tyrosine kinase(s) act downstream of cAMP production and protein kinase A activation.