Variation in angiotensin-converting enzyme activity in the testes of prepubertal, pubertal and adult cockerels.
The variation in the level of angiotensin-converting enzyme in the testes of prepubertal, pubertal and adult cockerels were investigated. Maximum levels of angiotensin-converting enzyme were observed at 8 wk of age, followed by a progressive decrease (P/0.01) until 14 wk of age. After this stage, however, a rapid growth rate of the testes and comb was noted. The concentration of angiotensin-converting enzyme in pubertal and adult birds remained at a significantly lower level than in the prepubertal birds. The level of activity of this enzyme was significantly but negatively correlated with age and with the weights of the testes and comb. The high level of this enzyme found in prepubertal cockerels suggests it may be more highly involved in the early rather than later stages of spermatogenesis.
Mohan
J
J
Division of Physiology and Reproduction, Central Avian Research Institute, Izatnagar (UP) - 243 122, India.
Moudgal
R P
RP
Singh
N B
NB