Induction of superovulation in mature rats with gonadotrophins

Abstract

Ovulation was induced in mature female rats by appropriately timed injections of pregnant mare serum gonadotrophin (PMSG) and human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG). Various combinations of the gonadotrophins were used. Maximal ovulatory response was consistently obtained with 50 I.U. PMSG and any combination of HCG between 50 I.U. and 5000 I.U. On the basis of the results obtained it is recommended that 50 I.U. PMSG and 50 I.U. HCG be injected to obtain a maximal ovulatory response in mature rats. High doses of PMSG (but not HCG) suppress ovulation markedly.