Epidermal Growth Factor Modulation of Corticotrope Function

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The objective of this study is to determine the source and target cells for a growth factor (EGF). Furthermore, because it has been shown to stimulate anterior pituitary corticotropes, the aims will determine if pituitary EGF-producing cells respond to the same stimuli that activate secretion from the corticotropes namely stress and corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH). To identify the source of EGF, labeling protocols that localize messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) to EGF will be done. The source cells will then be further identified by dual labeling for pituitary hormones. Once the source cells are identified, their responses to stimulation by stress or CRH will be determined to learn if they can be activated by increasing EGF mRNA. Aim target cells for EGF. EGF receptors on these cells will be labeled either with a biotinylated analog of EGF or antibodies to the EGF receptor. Then these cells will be identified further with labels for the hormones. The source cells will then be enriched and stimulated to secrete. The media will be used with corticotropes to determine if the cells secrete biologically active EGF. The specificity of the reaction will be determined by adding antisera to EGF to neutralize any EGF activity.