The influence of ovarian denervation and nerve stimulation on ovarian contractions

Two techniques were used to study the neuromuscular control of rabbit ovarian contractions. First, the ovary was denervated by stripping its artery. Spontaneous contractions were noted, as was a normal response to exogeneously administered adrenergic agents. Second, the ovarian nerves were electrically stimulated in an in vitro perfused ovary system. Inhibition of ovarian contractions was noted, and the additive effects with adrenergic agents suggested a betamimetic effect of nerve stimulation in the estrous rabbit. After administration of exogenous human chorionic gonadotropin, the response was reversed. The significance of the contribution of a neuromuscular mechanism to the control of ovulation is discussed.