Table 2.

Average values for sample collection parameters in experiment 1 and 2

Group	Time to euthanasia	Mean cycle length	Number of follicles				Luteal tissue (#)			Serum progesterone
Exp 1	(hours)	(days)	≤ 2 mm	2.1-4 mm	4.1-6 mm	≥ 6.1 mm	CH	CL	CA	(ng/ml)
24	22.83 ± 0.24	16.31 ± 0.48	11 ± 8.3	5.7 ± 0.7	0	2 ± 0	0	0.3 ± 0.3	2.0 ± 0.6	0.43 ± 0.06
36	36.64 ± 0.83	16.80 ± 0.28	15.7 ± 5.0	8.3 ± 2.7	0.3 ± 0.3	0.3 ± 0.3	1.6 ± 0.3	1.0 ± 0.6	2.0 ± 0.6	0.54 ± 0.14
48	49.33 ± 2.16	13.10 ± 4.85	14.5 ± 2.5	6.0 ± 3.0	0.5 ± 0.5	0	2.5 ± 0.5	1.5 ± 1.5	1.5 ± 0.5	0.55 ± 0.13

Ewes were monitored through three estrous cycles then euthanized 24 (n = 3), 36 (n = 3), or 48 (n = 2) hours after the onset of the next estrus. Data are presented as means ± SEM. Ovarian structures were measured on the external surface of the ovary with a transparent ruler (to the nearest 0.5 mm) and recorded. All visible follicles were aspirated and follicular fluid from each pair of ovaries was pooled according to follicular diameter: small (≤ 2.0 mm), medium (2.1-4.0 mm), large (4.1-6.0 mm; gene expression in large follicles was not assessed due to low cell numbers) and preovulatory (≥ 6.1 mm). Blood was collected immediately prior to euthanasia.