A Possible Role of Acute FSH-Release in Ovulation in the Hamster, as Demonstrated by Utilization of Antibodies to LH and FSH1

Antiserum prepared against ovine LH neutralized both LH and FSH of ovine origin. Cross-reaction with LH and FSH of hamster origin was also observed. When the crude antiserum was injected in hamsters shortly prior to the proestrous critical period for gonadotropin release, ovulation was blocked. Following removal of most of the FSH-antibodies by adsorption with FSH, the ovulation-blocking potency of the antiserum was greatly reduced. No significant loss of anti-LH activity had occurred during adsorption. Thus, the results suggest a prominent role of FSH during the proestrous critical period for ovulation in the hamster. (Endocrinology 84: 236, 1969)