Effects of ovariectomy and of hormones on collagenous framework of the uterus

¹ Department of Physiology, University College London, London, England

Alterations in the size of the collagenous framework of the uterine horns of the rat under different physiological conditions have been examined by mechanical tests in which they were distended in vitro with Locke's solution, containing papaverine to prevent muscular activity, under pressure which was increased progressively until they burst. This framework was found to show large and rapid changes in size related to the endocrine state of the animal. It was larger in estrus and diestrus and reduced by ovariectomy. Its size was increased by relaxin in combination with progesterone and estradiol and by the latter substance alone.

Key Words: uterine horn growth and involution in rats • connective tissue • size changes of uterine wall • estradiol, relaxin and progesterone and uterine horn volume • estrus cycle and uterine size • pregnancy • mechanical properties of uterus

Submitted on February 25, 1963

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