Abstract
Adrenalectomy (Adx) was performed at 112 to 116 days of gestation in 32 fetal lambs. Of these, 7 survived and were studied at near term (136-144 days). Compared with age-matched controls (C) body weights were not significantly different. The mean brain weight was less in Adx vs C, (Adx 47.12 ± 4.94 g. C 51.32 ± 3.15g) but statistically insignificant. Fetal heart rate, blood pressure, carotid artery blood flow, O2 and glucose consumption of the brain did not show any significant differences between Adx and C. No difference in white blood cell counts, percentage lymphocytes and “B” lymphocyte counts was observed in Adx vs C, but in mitogen tests lymphocytes from C showed responses greater in magnitude than Adx. Five of 7 Adx fetuses showed immature EEG (low amplitude and frequency) in comparison with C. The number of type II alveolar cells were significantly reduced in 4 of 6 lungs of Adx studied vs C. The study indicates that fetal adrenal glands play an important role in the development of vital organs.
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