A HISTOCHEMICAL METHOD FOR THE DEMONSTRATION OF 20α-HYDROXYSTEROID DEHYDROGENASE ACTIVITY IN RAT OVARIES

Abstract

20α-Hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity was localized histochemically in the corpus luteum of the rat by using Nitro-BT as an indicator. Intensive enzyme activity was obseryed in the corpus luteum cells, especially during involution. The placenta and corpora lutea of pregnancy failed to reveal enzyme activity during the last week of gravidity. Other tissues, including endocrine glands, liver and kidneys were also negative. The Present method offers a possibility to identify the sites of progesterone metabolism in the rat ovary at the microscopic level.