The effects of dithiocarbamoylhydrazine derivative upon ovarian function and structure in the bonnet monkey (Macaca radiata).

Abstract

The effects of Methallibure a dithiocarbamoylhydrazine derivate upon ovarian structure and function were investigated in 8 adult female bonnet monkeys. The drug was administered parenterally for 30 days beginning during the follicular phase of the cycle in 3 animals and during the luteal phase in 5. Ovarian function was monitored by daily measurements of the urinary excretion of total estrogens vaginal cytology cervical mucus weight and ferning and sex skin reddening. 1 animal was subjected to hystero-salpine-oepherectomy at the end of 30 days for anatomic studies; the remainder were followed with daily observations until vaginal bleeding occurred whereupon laparotomy was performed. The systemic effects of methallibure consisted of listlessness and in all but 1 animal of anorexia and weight loss. The ovary of the treated monkey exhibited an almost complete suppression of follicular growth while the histologic appearance of the tube; endometrium and cervix were consistent with diminished estrogen stimulation. Animals started on the drug during the follicular phase of the cycle experienced a rapid decrease of ovarian function these started during the luteal phase exhibited little suppressive effect until the corpus luteum had waned. The post-treatment cycle proved in all instances to be anovulatory in character.(Authors modified)