ROLE OF GAMMA DELTA T CELLS IN CORPUS LUTEUM FUNCTION

Reproductive efficiency in dairy cows has declined significantly and can be caused by inadequate function of the corpus luteum, which is the structure on the ovary that secretes progesterone. Lymphocytes are found within the corpus luteum, and the overall hypothesis of this project is to determine if luteal cells influence the type and function of those lymphocytes. The specific aims are to: 1. Determine if temporal changes occur in functionally distinct subsets of gamma delta T cells within the CL, 2. Determine if the functional status of the CL controls which subset of gamma delta T cells is stimulated by the luteal cells, and if luteal cell stimulation of gamma delta T cells is regulated by alpha beta T cells, and 3. Determine if luteal cells can induce shifts in gamma delta T cell phenotype. It is expected that this research will produce new information about how non-immune cells communicate with immune cells to regulate normal homeostasis of the ovary. These results should be applicable to many types of tissues and disease states, but will specifically provide new information on function of the corpus luteum, which should help to increase reproductive efficiency of cattle and thus provide economic benefits to dairy farmers.