The production of chorionic somatomammotrophin in sheep

Abstract

The production of ovine chorionic somatomammotropin (OCS) was demonstrated in the trophoblast from days 16-17 of pregnancy. Concentrations in the placenta rose slowly until about day 100 when there was a rapid increase to reach 70 .+-. 5 .mu.g prolactin equivalent/g fresh placental tissue and 15 .+-. 2 mg/placenta on day 120. After day 140, the concentrations decreased. OCS may be luteotropic and have an effect on fetal growth.