[Phosphlipids and neutral lipids of the testis of the monkey as a function of sexual maturity]

Biochemicals analysis of lipid parameters of testicular extracts of 14 monkeys (Cercopithecide) was found to confirm prior observations made with the same species by histochemical and histoenzymatic methods. Total lipids decrease with sexual activity; contrariwise total cholesterol increase; both parameters, however, showing higher levels in the absence of sexual activity. Phospholipids increase with sexual maturity after puberty but revert to normal with the cessation of spermatogenesis. Chromatographic separation reveals the specific variations of triglycerides the total being higher during pre-puberty and in animals lacking sexual potency. Phospholipid constituents are constant and may be classified in order of their concentration with lecithin being the major constituent. These observations though somewhat fragmentary and representing a rather small population will stimulate new studies and at the present time, agree with similar work done on other species of animals.