Isolation and characterization of microvascular endothelial cells from developing corpus luteum.

We have isolated and characterized microvascular endothelial cells from the developing rabbit corpus luteum. The isolated cells express Factor VIII-related antigen and angiotensin-converting enzyme, internalize acetylated low-density lipoprotein, and form capillary-like tubules in collagen gel cultures. Of the mitogens tested, only basic fibroblast growth factor stimulated the proliferation of these cells. Transforming growth factor-beta 1 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha strongly inhibited the proliferation of these endothelial cells. Platelet-derived growth factor, epidermal growth factor, insulin-like growth factor-1, histamine, prostaglandins, sex steroids, and interleukin-6 (interferon-beta 2) had no effect on the proliferation of these microvascular endothelial cells from the corpus luteum, whereas interleukin-1 alpha and 1 beta were mildly inhibitory. Endothelial cells are an essential component of corpus luteum physiology. Therefore, the availability of these cells will allow us to investigate the potential interactions between endothelial cells and luteal cells in vitro.