The Effect of Light Deprivation and Luzindole on the Ovulatory Function in Rats

We studied age-related changes in the ovulatory function in rats subjected to light deprivation and treated with the blocker of the melatonin receptors Luzindol. A cytological study of the estrus cycle was performed quarterly for 2 years. We found that, under conditions of light deprivation, age-related changes in the ovulatory cycle appeared later on and were less expressed than those observed in control females housed under standard light conditions. Blocking of the melatonin receptors with Luzindol did not significantly modified time course of aging as compared to the control group housed under standard lighting.