Effect of estradiol-17β on calcitonin receptor bindings in the hen neurohypophysis

The present study was performed to elucidate whether estradiol-17β (E₂) would affect calcitonin (CT) receptor binding in the hen neurohypophysis. The equilibrium dissociation constant (K(d)) and the maximum binding capacity (B(max)) of the CT receptor in the plasma membrane fraction of the hen neurohypophysis were examined by Scatchard analysis of specific binding of (125)I-labeled chicken CT. A single i.m. injection of E₂ into nonlaying hens caused a decrease in K(d) and B(max) values of the CT receptor. The K(d) and B(max) values of the CT receptor were smaller in laying hens than in nonlaying hens. The present study suggests that E₂ may increase the action of CT on the neurohypophysis in hens.