ULTRASTRUCTURAL-STUDY OF STIMULATION INDUCED BY SULPIRIDE ON PROLACTIN AND GONADOTROPE CELLS OF HYPOPHYSIS IN MALE AND FEMALE RATS

  • 1 January 1976
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 37  (5) , 375-388
Abstract
Ultrastructural modifications in the hypophysis induced after repeated administration over a period of 1-5 wk of sulpiride in male and female rats were analyzed. Hyperplasia and hypertrophy of the prolactin cells, and the dilatation of the intercellular spaces are increased with duration of treatment. The prolactin cells present a highly developed R.E.R. [rough endoplasmic reticulum], very rich in ribosomes and a hypertrophied Golgi area showing an active condensation in granules of the secreted material. A massive extrusion of mature and immature granules at the level of the plasma membrane is observed throughout the treatment. Sulpiride activates hormonal synthesis and release in prolactin cells. The gonadotrophs also show strong stimulation and the same cytologic modifications that are found in the castrated animal. The thyrotrophs and somatotrophs do not appear affected by sulpiride treatment. The possibility of a direct action by sulpiride on the hypophysis is discussed.

This publication has 1 reference indexed in Scilit: