THE INACTIVATION OF ESTRADIOL AND ESTRADIOL BENZOATE IN CASTRATE FEMALE RATS

Abstract

Pellets of estradiol and estradiol benzoate implanted in the subcut. tissues of adult castrate [female][female] produced a constant estrus for long periods. Pellets of estradiol and estradiol benzoate implanted in the normally situated spleens of adult castrate [female] rats produced estrous smears for a short period, and then are not able to exert specific action. When the pellet was in the spleen, the specific action was demonstrated by diverting the blood from the spleen directly into the systemic circulation. This was accomplished by transplanting the spleen containing the pellet between the overlying skin and muscles, and ligating the splenic vessels. Estradiol and estradiol benzoate were inactivated in vivo in a manner similar to estrone.