Cyclic changes in oviductal morphology and residual cytoplasmic estradiol binding capacity induced by sequential estradiol--progesterone treatment of spayed Rhesus monkeys.

Abstract

Artificial menstrual cycles were producedin ovariectomized rhesus monkeys by a sequential estradiol-progesterone regimen. Cyclic changes in oviductal morphology and residual cytoplasmic estradiol binding capacity were correlatedwith systemic levels of estradiol and progesterone.The plasma estradiol levels averaged 200pg/ml throughout the entire experimental period.This level is characteristic of the late follicular phase in the rhesus monkey. Progesterone levels achieved during the artificial luteal phase (approximately 7 ng/ml) were similar to those produced by a functional corpus luteum. The cyclic changes in oviductal morphology were essentially identical to those found during natural cycles. Cilia developedand secretory activity began during the artificial follicular phase; deciliation occurred and secretory activity ceased during the artificial luteal phase.Thus, the effects of estradiol on the growth anddifferentiation of the oviduct were cyclically inhibitedby progesterone even though the estradiol...