Abstract
Autoradiographic study was conducted to localize 2-[ 125I]iodomelatonin binding in the rat epididymis. In the peripubertal (6 weeks old), postpubertal (8 weeks old) and adult (3 months old) rats, intense specific 2-[ 125 I]iodomelatonin labelling of the corpus epididymidis was observed. The intensity of 2-[ 125I]iodomelatonin binding in the distal epididymal segment was significantly decreased in orchidectomized rats but the effect could be reversed with testosterone replacement. The intensity of 2-[ 125I]iodomelatonin binding in the distal rat epididymal segment did not show any diurnal rhythmicity when mid-light period and mid-dark period levels were compared, and was unaffected by constant lighting. Our data suggest androgen-dependent expression of 2-[ 125I]iodomelatonin binding sites, independent of lightinduced changes in circulating melatonin, in the rat corpus epididymidis. A novel role of melatonin and its receptor in the regulation of the functions of rat corpus epididymidis is strongly implicated.
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