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5145476 
Journal Article 
Genetic differences in mouse ovarian metabolism of benzo(a)pyrene and oocyte toxicity 
Mattison, DR; Thorgeirsson, SS 
1977 
Yes 
Biochemical Pharmacology
ISSN: 0006-2952
EISSN: 1873-2968 
26 
9 
909-912 
English 
WOS:A1977DD36200022 
HEEP COPYRIGHT: BIOL ABS. At the present time it is not known if there is a difference in AHH (aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase) activity between the several cell types represented in the ovary. The destruction of the primordial oocyte with no apparent histological change in the granulosa, theca or stroma may suggest that AHH activity resides in the oocyte itself. Stroma, theca or granulosa cells may possess AHH activity, with the primordial oocyte being a sensitive target for the presumed toxic metabolite(s). Modern primary culture techniques provided a means of separating these cell types and studying their capacity to metabolize PAH (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons) and may provide the information needed to answer these questions. The ovary may provide a model for studies, in vivo and in vitro of carcinogenicity and cytotoxicity of PAH. Existing data suggest that PAH are potent ovarian carcinogens in nonresponsive as well as repsonsive mouse strains. The doses of PAH used, were higher and exposure time was longer than those used in the present. Dose and time response curves will allow characterization of the differential rate of primordial oocyte destruction in these different mouse strains. The striking regional variation in human ovarian cancer with a high incidence in industrialized countries, regions where PAH pollution is common, as well as a 3-fold increase in incidence in the past 40 yr, underscores the need for further study of ovarian PAH metabolism as well as the effects of metabolites on ovarian components.