Effect of thymectomy on the female reproductive cycle in neonatal guinea pigs

OBJECTIVE: The appropriate function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis is essential for maintaining proper reproductive function. In female mammals, the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis regulates reproductive changes that take place in the estrus cycle and are necessary for successful reproduction. This study was conducted to investigate the effect of thymectomy on the estrus cycle in neonatally thymectomized guinea pigs. METHODS: In this study, 12 female guinea pigs, six thymectomized and six sham-operated, were studied. The effects of neonatal thymectomy at 5–7 days of age on parameters of the reproductive axis were examined in female guinea pigs. Gonadotropin and 17β-estradiol levels were assessed at regular intervals (days 0, 3, 6, 9, 12, and 15) of the estrus cycle, and the time of vaginal opening in the thymectomized and shamoperated guinea pigs was determined. RESULTS: Significant reductions in gonadotropins and 17β-estradiol levels during estrus cycle were found in neonatally thymectomized female guinea pigs compared to sham-operated guinea pigs. CONCLUSION: The results of this study underscore the importance of the thymus in the neonatal period for normal female reproductive function.