Ovarian dehydrogenase activities: suggested adrenal involvement in luteolysis

Immature rat ovarian dehydrogenase activity was studied during corpus luteum regression following withdrawal of prior pregnant mare serum gonadotrophin. Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase activity declined to nontreatment levels whereas 6-phosphogluconate, malate, and isocitrate dehydrogenase dehydrogenases exhibited a partial return to normal. Adrenalectomy prior to PMS withdrawal enhanced the decline in MAD while sharply elevating G6PD and 20alpha-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase. Corticosterone and progesterone prevented the G6PD changes induced by adrenalectomy and moderated the rise in 20alpha-OHSD. Adrenalectomy appears to enhance the process of luteolysis.