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Changes in plasma progesterone, estrogen, and testosterone concentrations throughout the reproductive cycle in female viviparous blue-tongued skinks, Tiliqua nigrolutea (Scincidae), in Tasmania

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posted on 2023-05-16, 12:53 authored by Ashley EdwardsAshley Edwards, Susan JonesSusan Jones
Changes in mean plasma concentrations of progesterone (P4), estrogen (E), and testosterone (T) in a captive population of female viviparous skinks, Tiliqua nigrolutea, were examined. Reproductively active and quiescent individuals were present in the population concurrently, allowing a comparison between these two conditions. Mean plasma progesterone concentrations were basal (1–2 ng ml−1) until the start of gestation and peaked in the second trimester (12.7 ± 1.27 ng ml−1), before falling significantly prior to parturition. An increase in mean plasma estrogen concentrations occurred coincident with the vitellogenic period; the mean plasma estrogen concentration peaked at 715.1 ± 106.68 pg ml−1 shortly before ovulation. Mean plasma testosterone concentrations in reproductively active females peaked in the periovulatory period (6.3 ± 0.63 ng ml−1) and had returned to basal concentrations (<1 ng ml−1) 2 weeks later. Changes in mean plasma steroid concentrations were correlated with reproductive condition and are discussed in terms of potential in vivo steroid interactions and the multihormone control of reproduction.

History

Publication title

General and Comparative Endocrinology

Volume

122

Pagination

260-269

ISSN

0016-6480

Department/School

School of Natural Sciences

Publisher

Academic Press Inc

Place of publication

San Diego, USA

Repository Status

  • Restricted

Socio-economic Objectives

Expanding knowledge in the environmental sciences

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