Physical changes associated with the onset of precocious puberty in rats after treatment with PMSG

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Abstract
Body dimensions, composition, O2 consumption and core temperature were measured in 2 groups of immature rats treated with PMSG [pregnant mare serum gonadotropin]. The 1st group weighed over 60 g on day 27 of life and responded to PMSG treatment by ovulating; the 2nd group weighed less than 60 g and did not ovulate after PMSG. Body composition, expressed as a percentage of body wt, was identical in the 2 groups, but growth rate, O2 consumption and body temperature were all lower in the lighter animals. O2 consumption and body temperature were manipulated by altering temperature (i.e., 5.degree., 22.degree. and 30.degree. C) or by hyperphagia, and a positive correlation was found between body temperature and the occurrence of ovulation.