Concentrations of free and esterified cholesterol in the testes of maturing rabbits

Levels of cholesterol and cholesterol esters were established in the testes of maturing New Zealand white rabbits. Free cholesterol levels remained relatively constant throughout pre- and post-pubertal development. The total cholesterol, cholesterol esters and percentage esterified cholesterol values were highest during the prepubertal period and decreased steadily thereafter, reaching their lowest after 90 days of age. Correlations of these findings with hormonal and morphological changes during testicular development are discussed.