VARIABILITY IN THE RESPONSE OF THE SYMPHYSIS PUBIS OF THE GUINEA-PIG TO RELAXIN

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Abstract
A revised method of assay for relaxin is described, based on a combination of the previously used palpation method and a procedure in which the increase in interpubic distance caused by relaxin is recorded by X-raying the guinea-pig before and 6 hr. after the administration of relaxin. A guinea-pig X-ray unit has been defined as that amount of relaxin which when given to fifty animals will cause an average symphysial spread of 0·35 mm. within 6 hr., the animals being held down when X-rayed by 500 g. weights on the rear legs. A critical examination of the response of the guinea-pig pubic symphysis to relaxin has been made, and the high degree of variability has been statistically analysed and discussed.