Abstract
Summary
1. The implantation rate in female rats on a purified diet containing about .1-.4 mg of tocopherols per 100 g diet was compared with the implantation rates in animals on the same diet receiving single and continuous supplements of synthetic dl alpha tocopherol acetate.
2. Failure of implantation was observed after the eighth month in females without tocopherol supplements. With continuous tocopherol administration, the implantation rate was normal after one year. Single post-mating tocopherol supplements increased the implantation rate in older rats significantly. The requirements necessary for successful implantation in older rats vary widely and increase steeply with age.
3. Infections of the uterus and the tubes were frequently observed in the deficient rats, but not in those on the complete diet. Presence of infection does not explain the higher implantation rate after single post-mating tocopherol doses.
4. The changes leading to the failure of implantation are prevented, but once present, only partly counteracted by alpha tocopherol acetate.
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