Endocrine Abstracts

Recent data suggests that oestrogen(E)-responsive somatostatin neurones are involved in the generation of the ovine GnRH surge. Specifically, somatostatin neurones in the hypothalamus are activated (as assessed by nuclear fos) and mRNA levels are elevated in the early stages of the surge induction process. In addition, somatostatin fibres have been visualised in close apposition to hypothalamic GnRH neurones, which may indicate direct neural connection between GnRH and somatos...

In utero exposure of female lambs to testosterone affects ovarian function such that ovaries contain multiple, abnormally large antral follicles. This study characterises further the follicular and cellular abnormalities underlying excessive and prolonged large antral follicle growth. Pregnant Poll Dorset ewes were injected twice weekly (30–90 days of gestation) with 100 mg of testosterone propionate in 1 ml oil, while controls received vehicle injection only. Andr...