Neuroendocrine effects of a non-steroidal compound of testicular origin.

The effects of the compound (+)-1,4-diphenylbutane-2,3-diol (DPB, synthetized in the testes) on gonadotropin secretion have been studied in castrated male rats. DPB, when injected subcutaneously, does not modify serum levels of LH and FSH. On the contrary, the local implantation of DPB in the median eminence of the hypothalamus results in a significant elevation of serum FSH. It is suggested that DPB may play a physiological role in the control of FSH release.