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ANDROGENIZATION OF THE FEMALE RAT WITH ANDROSTENEDIOL

The induction of a persistent vaginal cornification—anovulatory syndrome (androgenization) following steroid treatment of the neonatal female rat has been well documented (reviewed by Johnson, 1972). The exact timing of a `critical period' for the induction of this syndrome has not been determined but, in males, the gonads must be removed within 48 hr of birth in order to prevent their effects upon the hypothalamic—hypophysial axis. The upper limit in time for androgen to have any permanent effects is generally considered to be Day 10. While early (Days 1 to 3) postnatal treatment with testosterone can seriously interfere with normal vaginal development, this is clearly the most efficient time for induction of androgenization (Alklint & Norgren, 1971). Nearly all comparative studies involving a variety of steroids have used Day 5 for treatment,