THE INFLUENCE OF OESTRADIOL-17β AND PROGESTERONE ON THE CONTRACTILITY OF THE OVIDUCT OF THE TURTLE, CHRYSEMYS PICTA, IN VITRO

Abstract

SUMMARY The contractility of the oviduct of Chrysemys picta (the fresh-water turtle) was studied in vitro. Significant regional differences in contractile activity were observed. Contractions increased in amplitude and duration and decreased in frequency from the proximal to the distal end of the oviduct. Injections of oestradiol-17β in vivo increased the amplitude of contractions and decreased the duration of the rest period in segments taken from the distal end of the oviduct. In contrast, progesterone injections significantly reduced the duration of both contractile and resting periods.