The effects of light deprivation or blindness on the female genital tract of gerbils (Mariones hurrianae Jerdon).

Total absence of light or blindness results in atretic changes in the large ovarian follicles. It also caused stromal edema of the uterus and interrupted the estrous cycle. The cells found in the vaginal smear appeared to be that of diestrous. Light deprivation inhibits the synthesis of RNA and protein of the uterus and vagina. Light deprivation of blindness also results in the reduction of the uterine weight and its glycogen content. Antiestrogenic action of light deprivation or removal of the eyes was reflected in a decreased concentration of RNA, protein, sialic acid and glycogen in the uterus and vagina.