Localization of fibrinolytic activity in ovulation of the rat follicle as determined by the fibrin slide method.

Abstract
The localization and changes of fibrinolytic activity during the process of ovulation were investigated by the fibrin slide method. In regular estrous cycle rats, fibrinolytic activity first appeared in the external area of the follicle wall (stigma) at 12 h before ovulation. No activity was noted in the follicular cavity at this time. A peak of activity was seen at 2 h before ovulation. After ovulation, the activity decreased markedly. The activity was completely inhibited on fibrin slides to which 10-2 M trans-aminomethyl-cyclohexane carboxylic acid had been added. No activity was observed on plasminogen-free fibrin slides. Evidently, fibrinolytic activity is one of the important factors involved in the rupture of the mature follicle wall, and the fibrinolytic activity is due to plasminogen activator activity.