Effect of cortisol, deoxycorticosterone and 19-nortestosterone on the gametogenesis of the snail Helix pomatia.

Abstract

Gametogenesis of the snail was shown to be affected by cortisol, deoxycorticosterone and 19-nortestosterone. An activation of the ovogenetic apparatus while uncertain responses of spermiogenesis were observed. On the basis of effects of non-gonadospecific steroids it is concluded that the receptors of the snail's spermiocytes are not selective. The spermatogenesis was influenced more significantly by 19-nortestosterone as compared to testosterone, having been examined earlier.