Plasma prolactin concentrations in non-pregnant mares at different times of the year and in relation to events in the cycle.

Plasma prolactin concentrations were measured in mares using an homologous radioimmunoassay. An annual rhythm in plasma prolactin was found, with concentrations higher during the summer than during the winter. In addition to this seasonal pattern, occasional high concentrations of prolactin were seen when concentrations were otherwise basal. Blood samples taken from mares during an oestrous cycle in October-November showed that prolactin values were basal for most of the cycle, with a marked rise in prolactin shortly before the onset of oestrus. This prolactin peak was associated with an increase in the size of the largest follicle, and with a peak of PGFM in some mares, but did not appear to be related to the LH surge. In oestrous cycles in March and May-June, there was a wide variation in the baseline of prolactin secretion, in accordance with the seasonal pattern already mentioned. However, the peak of prolactin seen around oestrus in October-November was less obvious in March and May-June. Post-partum mares showed a high but irregular profile of prolactin concentrations with no clear-cut pattern in relation to the oestrous cycle.