Effects of gossypol on pituitary-ovarian endocrine function, ovulation and fertility in female hamsters.

Oral administration of gossypol acetic acid altered pituitary and ovarian hormones during proestrus and estrus in hamsters. These changes in endocrine function were not however, accompanied by alterations of estrous cycle length, number of ovulations or pregnancy rates. Changes in body weight and appearance of the liver suggested that female hamsters may be more susceptible than males to the the toxic effects of gossypol.