PLASMA PROGESTERONE AND OESTROGENS IN SHEEP DURING LATE PREGNANCY: CONTRIBUTION OF THE MATERNAL ADRENAL AND OVARY

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Abstract
Summary. Levels of progesterone were determined by competitive protein-binding techniques and oestrogens by radio-ligand binding techniques in the uterine and peripheral plasma of parturient ewes. Uterine progesterone levels began a continuous decline 4 to 5 days ante partum whereas jugular levels only declined 1 or 2 days ante partum. Peripheral plasma progesterone levels were significantly elevated in ewes carrying multiple fetuses compared to those in ewes with a single fetus. A similar but non-significant difference existed in the uterine plasma. Adrenalectomized and adrenalectomized-ovariectomized ewes had lower progesterone levels in the peripheral blood but not lower uterine levels than did control ewes. Ovariectomy did not affect progest- erone levels. Oestrone and oestradiol values were lower in the uterine venous concentrations of adrenalectomized and adrenalectomized\x=req-\ ovariectomized ewes. A depression of oestrogen values before birth was not noted in ovariectomized ewes. It is concluded that the maternal adrenal has a definite r\l=o^\lein oestrogen biosynthesis in pregnant sheep.

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