Abstract
The function of oxytocin receptors in the corpus luteum of pregnant ewes was investigated by infusing saline or oxytocin (100 ng/min) into the utero-ovarian artery of pregnant ewes (62 +/- 5 days, n = 12). During a 4-h infusion, plasma oxytocin (OT) concentration increased to 268 +/- 80 pg OT/ml in the OT-infused group and remained unchanged at 2.5 +/- 1.5 pg OT/ml in the saline-infused group. Progesterone concentration in jugular venous plasma (17 +/- 9 ng/ml) rapidly decreased during oxytocin infusion to 59 +/- 10% and 26 +/- 9% of control at 1.5 and 2 h, respectively; the utero-ovarian venous concentration of 64 +/- 38 ng/ml decreased by a similar magnitude during oxytocin infusion. Electron microscopy of corpora lutea, removed at the end of the experiments, showed no indication of luteolytic changes following oxytocin infusion. It was concluded that oxytocin markedly and rapidly reduces progesterone secretion in pregnant ewes.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
