Murine Orchiectomy and Ovariectomy to Reduce Sex Hormone Production

Summary

This manuscript describes a consistent way to quickly perform survival rodent orchiectomies and ovariectomies.

Abstract

Sex hormone signaling plays a critical role in multiple organ systems as well as in the progression of various diseases, including neurodegenerative disease. The manipulation of sex hormone levels in the murine model system allows for the study of their impact on organs/tissues and within disease progression. Orchiectomy - the surgical removal of the testes - and ovariectomy - the surgical removal of the ovaries - provide a method to deplete the endogenous sex hormones so that the precise hormone levels can be provided through drug or other delivery methods. Here, we provide rapid and minimally invasive methods for both orchiectomy and ovariectomy in the murine model system for the reduction of sex hormones. This protocol details the surgical preparation and excision of the testes through the scrotal sac, and excision of the ovaries via two incisions in the right and left lateral dorsum.

Introduction

The testes and ovaries are the primary organs responsible for sex hormone production. The cascade of hormonal communication leading to the production of testosterone and estrogen is a well-characterized process that begins in the hypothalamus with the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)¹. The release of GnRH causes the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) from the pituitary gland. As these hormones enter the bloodstream, they then affect other tissues in the body. The primary target of LH is the testes (in males) and the ovaries (in females)². In response to LH, the....

Protocol

All animal experiments were approved by the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee at UTSW (APN#2019-102840).

1. Murine orchiectomy

1. Prepare an aseptic working field and ensure that necessary surgical instruments have been sterilized and are readily available. Follow aseptic practices for rodent survival surgery.
2. Record the weight of the male mouse and administer the preferred method of anesthesia according to the institutional guidelines. In this pro.......

Discussion

Surgical removal of testes and ovaries allows for studying murine physiology under controlled hormone deprivation. This technique is important for many fields of science, including neurodegeneration, mineral metabolism, cardiovascular, and reproductive health^{15,16,17,18,19,20,21}. Here, we de.......

Materials

Name	Company	Catalog Number	Comments
1mL Syringe	BD	309659
30G 1/2" Needle	BD	305106
AutoClip System	Fine Science Tools	12020-00
Betadine Solution	Fisher Scientific	NC0158124
Cotton-Tipped Applicators	Fisher Scientific	10-000-692
Double -ended Micro Spatula	Fine Science Tools	10091-12
Galilean Loupes	Fine Science Tools	28050-30	Optional, can provide better clarity during procedure
Gauze Sponges, 4"x4"	Fisher Scientific	13-761-52
Graefe Forceps	Fine Science Tools	11150-10
High Temp Cautery Kit	Fine Science Tools	18010-00	Using the fine tip attachment
Needle Holders	Fine Science Tools	12001-13
PGA Absorbable Suture:4-0 / NFS-2 Reverse Cutting 19MM / 30 IN	Covetrus	29242	4-0 or 5-0 Absorbable sutures are best
Rodent Warming pad	Kent Scientific	RT-0515
Sterile Alcohol Prep Pads	Fisher Scientific	22-363-750
Straight Locking Micro Needle Holders	Fine Science Tools	12060-01
Surgical Scissors	Fine Science Tools	140-60-09
Vannas Spring Scissors - 2.5mm Cutting Edge	Fine Science Tools	15000-08
Veet Sensitive Hair Remover Gel Cream	Amazon	N/A
Wahl Professional Animal Compact Trimmer and Grooming Kit, Blue	Amazon	#9861-900