[Gonadal endocrine function in female silver foxes selected for domesticated behavior]

Selection for domesticated behavior in female silver fox is accompanied by a number of changes in endocrine function of ovaries. Significant changes in peripheral blood estradiol and progesterone levels and their production by gonads during anestrous may be an endocrine basis for out-of-season activation of reproductive system and earlier beginning of seasonal reproduction in domesticated females. The increase in the hormone level during preimplantation period of pregnancy and before parturition in tame foxes may influence their productivity.