INHIBITION OF PROGESTERONE SYNTHESIS <i>IN VITRO</i> BY PROSTAGLANDIN F2α

Abstract

Prostaglandins have been shown to be potent stimulants of cl steroid production in vitro (Pharriss &amp; Wyngarden, 1969; Marsh, 1971; Speroff &amp; Ramwell, 1970), yet prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α) given in vivo effectively inhibits progesterone secretion in rats, rabbits, guinea-pigs, sheep and the rhesus monkey (see Pharriss, Tillson &amp; Erickson, 1972, for review). A better understanding of the possible rôle of prostaglandins has been confused by these paradoxical findings. In such studies, it would be of value to have as an experimental model, an in-vitro system in which it is possible to duplicate the inhibitory effects on luteal steroidogenesis seen with the use of PGF2α administered in vivo. This communication describes an in-vitro method in which sections of rabbit cl are maintained