Androgen induction of intersexuality in sheep

Abstract

The effects of testosterone enanthate (TE), injected at 15-day intervals over a 75-day period, beginning 25–45 days postbreeding were studied on fetal loss and reproductive tract modification of lambs at birth; TE increased (P < .05) fetal death loss. Reproductive tracts of only female lambs (determined by presence of xx chromosome) from TE treated ewes were affected. They possessed normal ovaries and all the derivatives of the Mullerian ducts (oviducts, uterus, anterior vagina), and Wolffian ducts (epididymides, ductus deferens, seminal vesicles). They also possessed prostate and Cowper's glands. Their external genitalia were masculinized, and thus, they possessed penis and scrotum. These results indicate that during the post embryo period, (day 25–40 post-breeding to term) the differentiation and development of the Wolffian ducts and masculinization of the urogenital sinus, genital tubercle, urethral folds and labioscrotal swellings are androgen influenced. Regression of the Mullerian ducts and masculinization of the ovaries are not androgen influenced.