PROGESTATIONAL STEROIDS DURING PSEUDOPREGNANCY IN THE RABBIT

Abstract
SUMMARY The secretion of progestational steroids by the rabbit ovary was examined during pseudopregnancy. Progesterone secretion rose up to the mid-period but exceeded secretion of 20α-dihydroprogesterone only on days 7 and 9. The development of the corpus luteum and interstitial tissue and their content of progestational steroids were also examined during this period. The progesterone content of corpus luteum tissue fell towards the end of pseudopregnancy, while the corpora lutea remained large. Levels of 20α-dihydroprogesterone were generally higher in the interstitial tissue after the first few days. A significant alteration in the pattern of steroid synthesis and secretion occurred at a time corresponding to the period of implantation in the pregnant rabbit.