A Functional Role for 20α-Hydroxypregn-4-en-3-one in the Rabbit

摘要: Pituitary luteinizing hormone (LH) stimulates the synthesis and release of 20αhydroxypregn- 4-en-3-one (20α-OH) from rabbit ovarian interstitial tissue. Following coitus, output this progestin remains high throughout most preovulatory period its prolonged secretion can be correlated with plasma levels endogenous LH. In chronically ovariectomized rabbit, primed estrogen to induce mating, coitus initiates a transient discharge LH which largely disappears circulation within 2 hr. Plasma in mated rabbits maintained, however, by injecting 20α-OH oil subcutaneously immediately after mating. The results indicate that acts as positive feedback agent prolong heighten rabbit. (Endocrinology 80: 901,1967)