Mathematical models applied to prenatal growth of the ovine pineal gland

In order to obtain mathematical models applicable to prenatal growth of the ovine pineal gland, 420 embryos and fetuses at varying stages of developme nt were used Tor morphometric analysis. For each of the following variables studied, results were expressed as mean +/- standard error : body weight, head weight, brain weight, pineal gland weight and pineal gland volume. The possible influence of sex on variables was determined by analysis of varia nce. The set of variables analysed was fitted to mathematical growth models . The results obtained indicate that during prenatal development all the va riables examined fit a curvilinear-multiplicative growth model; additionall y the increase in these weights exceeds increases in length, particularly i n the case of the pineal gland, suggesting considerable prenatal developmen t of the gland, especially at the perinatal stage, where there is a marked increase in both weight and volume. It's also discussed the possible influe nce of morphologic changes of the pineal gland in its physiological maturat ion during prenatal development and it is established a clear correspondenc e between the different phases of the growing curves of the pineal gland wh it the ontogenic-proliferative and hypertrophic-differentiative phases, pre viously described by the authors in their description of the ovine pineal g land development. Finally, the data presented are offered to the scientific community to be used on future researches (i.e. in order to obtain the val ue of the volume or weight of pineal gland using the curve and the formulae displayed in a specific phase of development).