Effects of 17-alpha-pregn-4-en-20-yno-(2,3-d) isoxazol-17-ol (Danazol) and estrogen on the uterus of mice

The properties of a new synthetic steroid 17-alpha-pregn-4-en-20-yno-(23-d)isoxazol-17-ol (danazol) were investigated in ovariectomized mice and compared with estrogen-treated spayed mice. Danazol alone or in combination with estradiol dipropionate (ED) was injected into ovariectomized mice. Estrogenic effects were measured by bioassay. Danazol increased uterine weights significantly (p < .01). Danazol was ineffective in changing the adrenals while ED cuased adrenal hypertrophy. Danazol produced a vaginal epithelium several cell layers thick with intense mucification with a well-defined keratinization. Biochemical changes included increased glycogen content (suppressed when danazol and ED were given together) increased total RNA and protein in the uterus and depletion of ascorbic acid (p < .01). Results indicate the estrogenic nature of the compound.