LH-stimulation of the adenylyl cyclase system in follicles and oocytes of Xenopus laevis

The presence of an adenylyl cyclase sensitive to LH in Xenopus laevis is studied. The assay for adenylyl cyclase in membranes and homogenates from Xenopus laevis follicles and oocytes is characterized and the aim is centered on the appearance of LH-response through oogenesis. The results show a stimulation by LH in whole follicle and oocytes surrounded by the follicle cells. The oocytes become responsive to LH from stage III onwards, suggesting an action of the gonadotropin on the monolayer of follicular cells in early stages of follicle development.