EFFECT OF OVULATION AND HORMONAL TREATMENT ON INVITRO RESPONSE OF RABBIT OVIDUCTS TO PROSTAGLANDINS-E1 AND F2ALPHA

  • 1 January 1977
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 28  (1) , 91-95
Abstract
Rabbit oviductal circular muscle isometric contractile response was measured in relation to treatment with prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) and prostaglandin F2.alpha. (PGF2.alpha.). PGE1 (1 .mu.g/ml) inhibition of the contractile response of the rabbit oviduct to field stimulation was increased in the proximal isthmus after ovulation. Estrogen and progesterone, in doses known to alter ovum transport, did not affect the response of the oviduct to PGE1. In comparison to the response of estrous tissues, the stimulatory effect of PGF2.alpha. on the isthmus was decreased 24 h after administration of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG). Treatment with estrogen and progesterone did not affect these postovulatory changes. The response of the ampullary-isthmic junction to PGF2.alpha. was significantly reduced 72 h after administration of HCG. Neither ovulation nor steroid treatment affected the response of the ampulla to PGF2.alpha.. Changes in the sensitivity of the oviduct to prostaglandins after ovulation may be necessary for successful ovum transport.