Antler cycle and endocrine parameters in male axis deer (Axis axis): Seasonal levels of LH, FSH, testosterone, and prolactin and results of GnRH and ACTH challenge tests

G. A. Bubenik, R. D. Brown, D. Schams

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

38 Scopus citations

Abstract

1. 1. Antler cycles of six adult male axis deer of southern Texas were relatively well synchronized within the herd. The old antlers were cast from December to March and regenerated antlers polished between March and June. The rutting season occurred in June and July. 2. 2. LH and FSH exhibited little seasonal variation (LH 0.7 - 1.3 ng/ml; FSH 32-65 ng/ml). Prolactin levels were lowest in December (20 ng/ml) and highest in June (115 ng/ml). Testosterone concentrations exhibited a distinct seasonal pattern: minimum in December (0.1 ng/ml) and maximum in May (1.75 ng/ml). 3. 3. After GnRH challenge (100 μg given i.m. in November), maximal LH levels (reached 40-60 min after injection), varied from 7.7 to 11.2 ng/ml, and T levels varied from 1.3 to 1.6 ng/ml. 4. 4. Twenty I.U. of ACTH (given in March), elevated cortisol levels from 4-8 μg/dl (pretreatment) to 16-21 μg/dl (140min post-administration).

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)645-650
Number of pages6
JournalComparative Biochemistry and Physiology -- Part A: Physiology
Volume99
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - 1991

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