Induction of avidin in the chick oviduct by tissue damage and prostaglandins

Abstract

In immature, diethylstilbestrol-treated chicks, ligation of the oviduct caused local avidin synthesis in the immediate vicinity of the ligature. PG[prostaglandin]F2.alpha. injected directly into the oviduct also induced avidin synthesis, whereas saline or PGE2 had no effect. PGE and PGF2.alpha. concentrations increased in the oviduct within 24 h of ligation: the PGE increase could be partly inhibited by indomethacin, whereas that of PGF2.alpha. was less inhibited. An LD50 dose of indomethacin alone and with ligation had a clear stimulatory effect on avidin synthesis, whereas aspirin alone, or with ligation, was not effective. Ligation alone and with indomethacin app ared to alter the PGF2.alpha./PGE ratio. PGF-2.alpha. may be involved in the regulation of avidin synthesis in the chick oviduct.