Identification of prostaglandin F2-alpha released by distension of guinea-pig uterus in vitro
Poyser, N.L.; Horton, E.W.; Thompson, C.J.; Los, M.
Nature 230(5295): 526-528
1971
ISSN/ISBN: 0028-0836 PMID: 4927754 Document Number: 32141
Distension of the guinea-pig uterus early in the oestrous cycle significantly shortens the cycle1, as the size of the corpora lutea shows. Furthermore, distension of one uterine horn affects only the corpora lutea of the ipsilateral ovary2. Thus there seems to be a local utero-ovarian relationship. Total hysterectomy3, severance of the vascular tissue between the ovary and uterus4,5, or destruction of the endometrium6 significantly lengthens the oestrous cycle. Hemi-hysterectomy affects only the ipsilateral corpora lutea7. Transplantation of the uterus or of the endometrium alone maintains slightly extended oestrous cycles8. A nervous mechanism cannot account for all these observations, and it has been suggested that a luteolytic substance is released from the endometrium and reaches the ovary, possibly through the blood or lymphatic vessels, causing the corpora lutea to degenerate.