In vitro studies of ovarian function in the isolated perfused rabbit ovary

An in vitro model for studies of preovulatory follicle and ovulation is described, using a recirculating system for perfusion of isolated rabbit ovaries. The preovulatory follicle was studied by addition of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) to the perfusion medium 1.5 h after the start of perfusion. Ovulations occurred approximately 13 h after in vivo hCG injection to the animal and 5-10 h after the start of perfusion. The ultrastructural changes during the perfusion were similar to in vivo conditions. The release of estradiol and progesterone into the medium are consistent with in vivo measurements. This in vitro model is probably useful for further studies of the biochemistry and morphology of ovarian function.