The function of fat bodies in relation to the hypothalamo-hypophyseal-gonadal axis in the frog, Rana esculenta.

In this study the authors have tried to furnish experimental support for the importance of fat bodies in the normal functioning of the hypothalamo-hypophyseal-gonadal system of the male frog, Rana esculenta. These experiments have shown a hypothalamo-hypophyseal control of the mobilization of fat body contents, directly involved in the control of testicular activity. Furthermore it is proposed that the fat body contents are released into the testis through direct vascular contacts between the two organs. We suggest that the A1 cells (lactotrophs) and/or B2 cells (FSH-gonadotrops) of the pars distalis gonadotropins are incapable of stimulating the testis in the absence of fat bodies. In the light of these results a scheme has been put forward showing the position of fat bodies in the hypothalamo-hypophyseal-gonadal axis of the frog.