Observations on the effects of prolactin on LH-receptors and steroidogenesis in corpus luteum and testis of the hypophysectomized rat
Abstract. In this study the effects of hypophysectomy and autotransplantation of the pituitary gland on the concentration of hCG-binding sites (LH-receptors) and steroidogenesis in the corpus luteum and the testis of the rat were investigated. It was found that during pseudopregnancy both hCG-binding to homogenates of isolated corpora lutea and the progesterone levels in blood increase until day 7 and subsequently decrease until day 13. Hypophysectomy on day 5 led to a decrease of the number of LH-receptors and the serum progesterone level. By contrast hypophysectomy followed by autotransplantation of the pituitary gland increased the LH-receptor concentration and progesterone synthesis in spite of non-detectable LH-levels. Progesterone implants in hypophysectomized rats did not influence the number of LH-receptors. Hypophysectomy on day 0 without pituitary gland transplantation did not prevent the formation of some luteal LH-receptors measured on day 5 although progesterone was not secreted. A similar effect of prolactin secreted by pituitary autografts on LH-receptors was seen in the testis. The rapid decline of the number of binding sites normally observed after hypophysectomy was prevented by the presence of two pituitary autografts. Testosterone and LH-levels were non-detectable in the operated male rats. These data show that progesterone secretion by the corpora lutea is always associated with the presence of LH-receptors, regardless whether serum LH-levels are detectable or not. Moreover it appears that prolactin maintains or even increases the amount of LH-receptors in hypophysectomized male and female rats.