Luteal function in sows after unilateral infusion of PGF-2 into the anterior uterine vein on different days of the oestrous cycle

Abstract

Prostaglandin[PG]F2.alpha. (1.5 mg over 10 h) was infused into the anterior uterine vein of pigs on days 6, 8, 10, 12, 14 and 15 of the estrous cycle. At each stage of the cycle PGF2.alpha. suppressed luteal function although the fall in progesterone secretion was much greater and statistically significant when the infusion was performed on days 12, 14 and 15 of the cycle than on days 6, 8 and 10. The concentration of c[cyclic]AMP was depressed on days 15 and 17, and fatty degeneration of luteal cells on days 6-8 or 14 was more pronounced in the ovary ipsilateral to the PGF2.alpha. infusion than in the contralateral ovary. The results are compatible with the local perfusion of PGF2.alpha. from the anterior uterine vein to the ipsilateral ovary, but a systemic effect was also apparent.