INACTIVATION OF ENDOGENOUS ANDROGENS BY THE LIVER IN RABBITS1

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Whole testes of the rabbit were transplanted intramesenterically with minimal trauma or disturbance to their normal circulation. After establishment of vascular anastomosis with mesenteric circulation, the original circulation via the spermatic arteries and veins was severed, resulting in venous drainage only through the portal circulation. Passage of endogenous androgens through the portal system and the liver failed to maintain intraocular prostatic implants. A later secondary vascular anastomosis to the body wall stimulated growth of the prostatic implants and restored their normal histology. Evidence was obtained indicating that only a portion of the total androgen production by the testes was sufficient to maintain transplanted prostatic tissue.