Changes in the expression of annexin A1 in the anterior pituitary gland after ovariectomy in rats

The expression of annexin A1 (ANXA1) is augmented by gonadotrophin releasing hormone (GnRH) in LβT2 gonadotroph. We examined the distribution of ANXA1 in the pituitary tissues and the effect of ovariectomy. ANXA1 was mainly stained on folliculostellate cell-like irregular shaped cells with extended process of adult female rats. Large gonadotroph, so called castration cells, appeared two weeks after the ovariectomy. ANXA1 in castration cells exists around cells although another GnRH responsive annexin, ANXA5, was apparent also in the cytoplasm. The pituitary expression of ANXA1 after ovariectomy was significantly higher than intact rats. These difference in tissue distribution of two annexins suggest ANXA1 and ANXA5 bear different physiological function in the gonadotroph under GnRH regulation.