CORPUS LUTEUM CONTROL IN HYSTERECTOMIZED GUINEA-PIGS

Abstract

SUMMARY: Interruption of the prolonged luteal phase in hysterectomized guinea-pigs, followed by vaginal opening, can be caused by substances affecting the hypothalamus and hypophysis, which check gonadotrophin output. In the present experiments, both progesterone and reserpine were effective and caused regression of the corpora lutea. It may be concluded that in the guinea-pig, as in the sow and the sheep, the corpora lutea of hysterectomy do not function independently of the hypophysis. The uterine factor associated with normal cyclic corpora lutea regression, which is lacking after hysterectomy, presumably acts on the hypophysis rather than directly on the corpora lutea.