Serum concentrations of prolactin, luteinizing hormone, growth hormone, corticosterone, progesterone, testosterone and oestradiol in relation to broodiness in domestic turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo)
Harvey, S.; Bedrak, E.; Chadwick, A.
Journal of Endocrinology 89(2): 187-195
1981
ISSN/ISBN: 0022-0795 PMID: 7195420 DOI: 10.1677/joe.0.0890187
Accession: 000978796
Variations in concentrations of LH [luteinizing hormone], GH [growth hormone], prolactin [PRL], corticosterone, estradiol, testosterone and progesterone in serum were followed over a 24 h period (14 h light:10 h darkness) in laying and broody turkeys and in turkeys suspected of becoming broody (pre-broody hens). In laying hens marked variations in LH and gonadal steroid levels were observed in relation to the ovulatory cycle of the bird. These patterns of hormone secretion were not seen in either group of broody birds. Levels of GH in serum were very variable and showed no correlation with the egg-laying or light:darkness cycle and the concentrations did not differ between the respective physiological states. A nocturnal increase in the concentration of corticosterone in serum was observed in all 3 groups of turkeys and the concentration was occasionally higher in the pre-broody and broody birds than in the laying hens. The serum PRL concentration in each group was also very variable and showed no obvious relationship with the ovulatory or photoperiodic cycle. The mean circulating PRL concentration throughout the 24 h period did not differ significantly between the groups. Apparently broodiness in the domestic turkey is not initiated or maintained by enhanced PRL secretion.