Endocrine mechanisms governing transition into adulthood in female sheep
Foster, D.L.; Ryan, K.D.
Journal of Reproduction and Fertility. Supplement 30: 75-90
1981
ISSN/ISBN: 0449-3087 PMID: 6820056 Document Number: 172581
Based on the studies of the authors and their colleagues, a hypothesis for the hormonal changes governing transition to adulthood in sheep is presented. This postulates that the responsiveness to oestradiol inhibition of LH secretion decreases sufficiently to allow an hourly LH pulse rhythm when the 1st follicular phase in the lamb is initiated. The hourly LH pulse rhythm increases oestradiol secretion to a level which will induce a preovulatory LH surge. The evidence for this hypothesis is given.