TSG-6 protein and its role during maturation of ovarian follicles]

TSG-6 is an similar to 35 kDa glycoprotein belonging to the hyaluronan binding family. Its expression is induced as a result of an inflammatory condition and during ovulation. TSG-6 is a crucial protein engaged in extracellular matrix synthesis and organization of cumulus-oophorus-complexes (COCs) in preovulatory ovarian follicles. TSG-6 catalyzes cross-linking via heavy chains of trypsin alpha inhibitor and hyaluronan. This reaction is essential for proper cumulus cell expansion. This process is correlated with purchasing competence by the oocyte. Disorders of the synthesis of TSG-6 cause irregularities in expansion of cumulus cells during ovarian follicle maturation. Therefore, TSG-6 is a potential molecular marker of oocyte maturation.