Abstract

ABSTRACT Studies were conducted to further examine the interaction between gonadal hormones and ACTH in the regulation of adrenocortical function. Gonadectomy for a period of two weeks in pre-puberal rats of either sex or in adults for one week, was without effect on adrenal 5α-reductase activity and corticosterone production in vitro. Cortisone administration to intact rats, both before and after puberty, suppressed corticosterone and total steroid production and increased adrenal reductase activity. Ovariectomy in immature or adult females did not modify the effects of cortisone on adrenal function. Orchiectomy, both before and after puberty, synergistically enhanced the actions of cortisone to increase 5α-reductase activity and lower corticosterone production without affecting total steroid output. These observations lend support to the hypothesis that gonadal hormones interact with ACTH in the control of adrenocortical function. Adrenal 5α-reductase seems to be a common site of action for the effects.

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