Lysosomal acid phosphatase activity and progesterone secretion by porcine corpora lutea at various periods of the luteal phase
Gregoraszczuk, E.L.; Sadowska, J.
Folia Histochemica et Cytobiologica 35(1): 35-39
1997
ISSN/ISBN: 0239-8508 PMID: 9090509 Document Number: 480571
Four types of porcine corpora lutea were excised at four different stages of the luteal phase. One group of corpora lutea was homogenized and the concentration of progesterone was assayed. The second part was homogenized for measurement of acid phosphatase (ACPase) activity. The third part was sectioned at -20 degrees C in a cryostat and stained histochemically for acid phosphatase activity. The product of acid phosphatase reaction indicated fewer lysosomes in the luteal cells of early developing corpora lutea, increasing as luteal phase progressed. As the level of progesterone declined in the terminal phase of the cycle, there was a maximal increase in the number of lysosomes and ACPase activity. These events resulted in final regression of corpora lutea. The decrease of the lysosomal reaction in the late regressing corpora lutea is probably due to the extreme fragility of the lysosomes at that stage.