Δ5-3β-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase in Toad Testis: Synergistic Action of Ascorbic Acid and Luteinizing Hormone

Administration of ascorbic acid (AsA) to normal toads increased testicular Δ5-3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase which was demonstrated in both the tubular and Leydig cells. After hypophysectomy, the enzymic activity was much diminished in the testes. AsA and luteinizing hormone (LH) induced testicular enzyme activity in hypophysectomized toads18 hr after treatment. Injection of AsA or 55 jug of LH alone was unable to stimulate the enzyme in testes of hypophysectomized toads. The evidence indicates that AsA in conjunction with LH augments the testicular Δ5-3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity. (Endocrinology 85: 981, 1969)