Non-genomic action of estradiol and progesterone on cytosolic calcium concentrations in primary cultures of human granulosa-lutein cells

BACKGROUND: The present study examined whether the sex steroids, estradiol and progesterone, could alter cytoplasmic calcium concentrations ([Ca(2+)](cyt)) in human granulosa-lutein cells. METHODS: Human granulosa cells were obtained at the time of oocyte retrieval for IVF and cultured for 3-7 days. Cells were loaded with Fura-2 AM and changes in [Ca(2+)](cyt) of single cells were studied using a dynamic digital Ca(2+) imaging system.